Headlight Issue on 1999 VW Golf GTI VR6. I just purchased this yesterday and noticed that the lights will not switch from High to Low beam. (High indicator doesn’t switch off) Installed a new Headlight Switch and didn’t fix problem. Turn off the ignition switch and indicator functions as it should but no change on lights. Stuck on high beams.

Hi
Its either the relay which needs replacement or its the headlight switch needs checking out, or check the fuses as you might have 2 fuses 1high 1 low but i dont know weather the 3.5 has.

I would start with checking the headlight bulbs (slim to none possibility but starting point) next go to the headlight switch.

bad headlight switch

I have same problem with my 95 Vr6 Golf, check that indicators are in 'neutral' position. If my indicator is still on when I switch off ignition then the lights on that side stay on - nuisance!

that is engine management light.you need a diagnostic test

Did you check battery charge.Must be 13.8 v-14.4v.Or your battery is gone.

might be alternator going bad. autozone will test it for free

Sounds like you have a bad headlight switch. I would also check fuses 1&2 in the fuse box, those are for the low beam headlights, and fuse 3 is for the instrument panel lights and the license plate lights. All 3 should be 10 amp fuses.

None of the above solutions are correct. Here is the correct solution:

The problem is in the high beam switch assembly which also houses your turn signals and possibly cruise control. There are some electrical contacts in the assembly which dis-connect the low beams when you put the high beams on. Constant use of the high beam switch will create arcing on the low beam switch which makes the contacts not conduct electricity anymore.

The repair is to either replace the assembly, $300 at dealer, $100 or less do it yourself, or take the assembly apart and clean it for free. (2 hours or less)

Instructions on taking your steering wheel off here: http://forums.tdiclub.com/showthread.php?t=151557

Instructions for fixing the switch here: http://forums.tdiclub.com/showthread.php?t=167831&page=4

P.S. If you own a VW, especially around model years 1999 to 2004, there is a rare but devastating problem with engine coolant being literally pumped through all electrical parts of your car.... destroying it. Repair cost = $8,000. It is called coolant migration. Check your VW right now (takes two seconds, literally), and do a two-minute procedure to fix your car to prevent the problem here: http://www.myturbodiesel.com/1000q/multi/coolant_migration.htm

a GTI has to have turbo and intercooler to be called a GTI.
So, all GTI's have turbo