NB Headlamp replacement

[Bob K]

OK, to replace the headlamp on the NB does the replacement part have to be an authorized VW replacement part? Or, will any garden variety replacement part from your friendly neighborhood auto parts store do?

[warren]

no need to go to the dealer...wal-mart or local auto parts store is your best (and less expensive) route to take.

[raceinsider]

If you break the ring trying to get it loose and replace the bulb, are you screwed ??

[Bugmonkey]

Originally Posted by raceinsider

If you break the ring trying to get it loose and replace the bulb, are you screwed ??

No.
Counting upgraded bulbs I've had the head lights out of two different NB's 6 times. I broke the little crosshatched designed depressy thingy 5 of those times. It seems nearly any amount of pressure breaks them.
If you break the part you push up on then the whole thing needs to be replaced in order to get the light to lock in place.
Part numbers are:
1CO-806-629-A
1CO-806-630
$10.70 a piece from 1stvwparts.com
3 screws replace them.
One of the best investments I have made for removing head and tail lights has been a large suction cup like body repair dudes use. Stick it to the light and pull. Use only gentle pressure because you can separate the lens from the light body if you pull to hard.