2002 VW passat wagon brakes

they are 2 different fuses in the panel for the brakes check fluid level in reservoir

Are there noises coming from the brakes? The pads might be done for.

If both lights went out it could very well be the fuse, check the fuse box located below the dash and see if the fuse labeled taillight/brake light is blowen if so replace fuse and the lights should be working again.

DODGY EARTH

What panic alarm? A red flashing light in the middle of the instrument panel? Why, that's the antilock brake system. type in vw instrument warning lights in the search bar and read on it.

These problems do not seem to be related at all. The cause of the warm ac air could be several things from a low refrigerant charge to a plugged condensor fins to the compressor clutch not kicking in. You just have to follow a systematic approach when diagnosing these problems.

get your brakes done at a local tire place and not the dealer.  It sounds like you need a new mechanic.  Got to cartalk.com as they have a list of good mechanics in your area.

your getting ripped
parts and labor should be no more than 200.00 call auto zone and price the parts yourself

this takes a dealer only scan tool to diagnose.

I had this same problem back in November during a very cold spell.I had an appointment to have some "recall" work done on my 03 passat and told them about the STOP brake light. When I picked up my car, the dealer told me that it just needed some brake fluid??, so they filled it ! Well, I don't know about that, but I haven't seen that pesky STOP warning light since.