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VW Golf lights problem, Please Help ! - wrightstuff
Hope anyone out there can help with a problem on my MK 4 VW Golf TDI 130. Have noticed both brake light bulbs blown & the high level light is lit slightly at either end. I have not yet replaced the blown bulbs cause just seen this evening. When the brake is applied the high level light works correctly, all bulbs lit. I don't think the problem is the pedal switch because the centre light comes on and off cleanly every press. Another problem which has arisen this evening is the engine management light is flashing instructing me to take it to the garage. Is this likely to be connected? Or is this a coincidence? I think a diagnostic check from a good Auto Electrician would be the best starting point. Please help with advice if you can. THANKS !
VW Golf lights problem, Please Help ! - 659FBE
There is a link between the engine management system and the brake lamp circuit on these cars. Fit two good brake lamps and check for proper operation before you delve too deeply here. Brake lamp swiches are also a weakness, but yours is probably OK if it's operating the centre lamp.

There is a very good chance the CEL (check engine light) will disappear a short while after you have fixed the stop lamps.

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VW Golf lights problem, Please Help ! - wrightstuff
Thanks for your help, i appreciate it. Are you saying that the engine management system could know that i have both brake light bulbs out (well actually not in the holders) at the moment? The warning light which was flashing on my journey home tonight was the 'Glow plug' light which according to the manual doubles up as the 'Engine Management Fault Light' if a fault occurs. It also said 'Engine Workshop !' If you are right i wonder why the bulbs went in the first place and the centre light has some bulbs lit when the pedal isn't applied. Kind Regards.
VW Golf lights problem, Please Help ! - 659FBE
The engine management system will "know" if the brake lamps are missing or not operating properly. Fit two known good bulbs and start checks from there. Next step is the brake lamp switch if all is not OK.

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VW Golf lights problem, Please Help ! - George Porge
The switch will be faulty and blowing the bulbs, very common and a good earner for VW . Fit a new switch and 2 new bulbs and the dash light will go out

There's 2 different switches purple or black, make sure you get the correct one.

4 Torx screws hold the under dash panel, unplug the wiring from the switch and twist the switch from the pedal assembly. ;-)