How to replace headlight bulb for Audi A3 (8L)
Model years: 1996 - 2003
Regarding road safety it's very important to observe if both headlights are working fine. As usual inoperative headlight is caused by a failed bulb, that will require closer attention to monitor the route at the hours of darkness. Also your automobile might be less noticeable in respect of other drivers. If you became aware of the fact, that the headlight does not perform well, be responsible and replace the bulb. Before getting ready to fix dead, be assured you have adequate bulb. Anytime you notice other car with failed headlight do not give it up and let the driver know about it. The chances of an accident will be decreased.
The life-time of a bulb is limited. Sooner or later, it will burn out and will have to be replaced. Bulbs, made of high quality materials, tend to last longer. It's recommended to use well known brand replacement bulbs.
If bulb burns out right after installation, your vehicle might have a problem inside electrical system - have it checked by auto electrician.
Tip: Never touch glass housing of a halogen bulb with your fingers. Greasy spots might cause premature failure of the bulb. Handle the bulb by its base or use a piece of clean paper when installing.
Audi A3 headlight bulb list:
| Body type | Position | Bulb specs | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Three-door hatchback | High beam (1996-2001) | Type: Halogen (H1) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $19.75pack of 2 Amazon.co.uk: £6.52pack of 1 £11.45pair |
| High beam (1996-2001) | Type: Halogen (H4) Voltage / Watts: 12V/60/55W | Amazon.com: $13.98pack of 1 $14.61pair Amazon.co.uk: £5.91pack of 1 £13.75pair | High beam (2001-2003) | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair |
| Low beam (1996-2001) | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair | Low beam (2001-2003) | Type: Halogen (H1) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $19.75pack of 2 Amazon.co.uk: £6.52pack of 1 £11.45pair |
| Five-door hatchback | |||
| High beam (1996-2001) | Type: Halogen (H1) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $19.75pack of 2 Amazon.co.uk: £6.52pack of 1 £11.45pair | High beam (1996-2001) | Type: Halogen (H4) Voltage / Watts: 12V/60/55W | Amazon.com: $13.98pack of 1 $14.61pair Amazon.co.uk: £5.91pack of 1 £13.75pair |
| High beam (2001-2003) | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair | Low beam (1996-2001) | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair |
| Low beam (2001-2003) | Type: Halogen (H1) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $19.75pack of 2 Amazon.co.uk: £6.52pack of 1 £11.45pair |
How to replace headlight bulb:
1.
Open the hood.
2.
Release headlight bulb cover cap by pressing down it's retainers (1) and (2):
3.
Remove the cover cap (1):
4.
Unplug wiring harness adapter from headlight bulb by pulling it:
5.
The bulb is attached to headlight by metal retention clip. To release the bulb, press the top retainer (1) of retention clip downwards and remove it from the notch. Do the same with the bottom retainer (2):
6.
Lift retention clip (1) off the bulb:
7.
Take the bulb out:
8.
Insert the replacement bulb. Do not touch the glass part of the bulb as it might fail prematurely.
