03 Shape S Line Audi A3.
Hi, I need to replace a stoplight bulb , I'm not sure how to remove the whole cluster without breaking anything.

So far I have removed a long plastic nut and the light cluster is now quite loose, will it pull out or is there some other fixing inside?

Thanks
Scott

 

Scott,

I have a 53 plate and had exactly the same issue the weekend just gone.
Once the plastic nut(s) are removed (there are two of them) from within-side the boot, it's a case of force.
The side of the light which is still attached has two notches which clip into the side of the car, very securely!
They do take some getting out however they will release. The only way to release them is to force them out.

You may want to check the manual for the diagram.

 

Sorry, you are meaning the 2003- onwards model with the 53 plate? I'm from Finland so I don't know

Anyways I've managed to remove the long plastic nut that is behind this small round plastic "patch" in the boot, but it really feels like something will break if I just force the cluster off... to which direction do I have to try to move it - straight back or bend to side?

Does anyone have a pic about the installation?

And I only had a plastic nut under the upper patch, nothing under the lower one.

-antti

 

Sry, yeah 2003 onwards.
Exactly what I thought, it does feel like something is going to break. The way to release the cluster is, it needs to move back a little while you pull it outwards... a little force is needed.
No one seems to have a diagram

If your in any doubt... I would take it to a dealership.

 

Ok, thanks, I'll just try to pry it off then... no way I'm going to pay 60$ for a light bulb change, I'll brake the damn cluster before

-antti

 

Got it changed and I took some pics, hope it helps others. It's really not that mystical once one gets to see what is behind there...
There is three attaching points (at least for the 3 door model), the plastic nut in the boot and two ball-type notches that attach to rubber grommets. I used tape to mask around the cluster to avoid chipping the paint.

[IMG]local://upfiles/22565/26A6639A920C4DA8AD6CAF17AC724A4C.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/22565/0532ABCBE8D54B45AD000B8D2576D3AF.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/22565/8DC3D6A4678C46B69C3C3DDDEF9D7EA4.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/22565/E26599FFB0794A858DA868A7B5038124.jpg[/IMG]

 

That is absolutely brilliant, thankyou very much for your time and effort!

I shall have a go now!

Im very sorry Audi, I won't be giving you any money! lol.

Scott