About Robert Greenfield Expertise I can answer any question pertaining to B5 model Passats short of automatic transmission rebuilds. I may be able to field some questions about other late model VWs with crossover engines. I do not address performance modification questions.
Experience I have been doing all my own work on my two Passats for a decade. I have been giving sound repair advice on PassatWorld.com for the past few years.
Education/Credentials No relevant auto related degrees unless a BSME counts.
Expert: Robert Greenfield Date: 11/28/2007 Subject: problems with headlights
Question QUESTION: I own a 1998 vw jetta gls 2.0L and recently my headlights stopped working. I can get my high beams to function(with manual help); however, that is also the only time I can get my windshield wipers to function. I am wondering if this is an electrical issue as my air conditioner just stopped working also... I have checked my fuses and have found no problems specifically with them....please help me.
ANSWER: Describe this 'manual' help. It may be a clue. It sounds like a loose connection at the power distribution block or a bad ground. Do you have a multimeter?
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QUESTION: "manual" being that i have to hold the switch back. and yes i have a multimeter.
Answer When you pull back on the hi beam switch the power is coming from the distribution block, but when you push forward, it comes from the headlight switch. Since your lights don't work, this makes sense.
With so many things failing, it sounds like a poor connection at a common point inside the dash. Start at the back if the headlight switch. The red wire should lead right to the power distribution block. Make sure the nut is tight and that none of the lugs are broken. Follow the brown wire to the ground post in the dash. Again, make sure the nut is tight and no lugs are broken.
