Cleaning Tail lights

[LilBit]

When I purchased my beetle, it had aftermarket clear taillights. I really like thr way they look, but one of them is not sealed properly, so it's getting grim in it. My question is, how do I take it off to clean it and how do I seal it properly once it is cleaned. Thank for all the help.

[noR]

They're not made to come apart; you'd have to cut it open; and silicone/epoxy it shut.

[LilBit]

Thanks, I just figured that out. I think I'll take it in to a VW shop and have them replaced or cleaned. Thanks for the help

[noR]

good luck. Clear tails are an aftermarket part. Most likely a vw dealership won't touch them.

Your best bet is to buy a new set from somewhere and install them yourself; it's quite easy.

[sb_beetle]

Originally Posted by LilBit

When I purchased my beetle, it had aftermarket clear taillights. I really like thr way they look, but one of them is not sealed properly, so it's getting grim in it. My question is, how do I take it off to clean it and how do I seal it properly once it is cleaned. Thank for all the help.

Since you asked how to take it off and clean it there is a way, but it takes a bit of time.

What you need:
Flashlight helps
Flathead screwdriver
Rag
Long Q-tips or similar

1) Open your trunk.
2) On either side of the trunk (inside) you will see vents that are about the same level as the tails.
3) Use a screwdriver to pop the vent on the tail light you wish to remove.
4) You should see a little nut that retains the tail light.
5) Loosen that nut and place it aside.

Now to remove the tail light...

6) From the outside place a rag around the head of the screwdriver and gently lift the black seal from the body.

There are two (2) retaining clips that help secure the tail light toward the license plate about 3-4 inches apart. The first clip is about 3 reflector lines up the clear portion from mid light. The second clip is about 7 reflector lines down from mid light.

7) Continue gently prying with the rag and screwdriver and the clips should appear (they're silver in color). Once you are able to separate the tail light housing sufficiently continue gently pulling and it should pop out.

The bulbs twist out of the lamp housing allowing its complete removal.


8) With a long Q-tip or similar (sponge paint/craft brush) you should be able to clean the majority of the lens. I would suggest doing this dry first and then rubbing alcohol if there is still grime.

9) Check the edge of the lens where it is attached to the solid plastic housing and you should be able to see where a potential leak might be.

10) To reseal the housing try using some Marine GOOP. This should be available at any boating supply. You can apply it with a toothpick and once dried remove excess with a razor blade. Let the GOOP dry for several hours before reinstalling.

To reinstall the light:

11) Replace the bulbs in their holes.
12) Insert the side away from the retaining clips first making sure the black plastic seal is laying flat and gently press the remainder of the tail light back into place.

PM me if you have any other questions or need pics.

[thexnightmarexstops]

deff do it yourself. its not hard at all.

you will get some weird looks walking into the dealer with those in your hands. haha