So I just tried the DIY for headlight switch repair, and it was unsuccessful. As of right now, I don't want to spend the 150+ on a new switch, because im spending it on more important repairs like wheel bearings, ect. I looked for a DIY on a bypass to toggle switch, but found nothing. Would you guys recommend doing a bypass? and if so, is there a DIY link on it. Im driving a 98 a4 quattro if it makes any difference. thanks

 

When you say the repair was unsuccessful, did you pull the springs (beneath the copper contacts) upwards? If not, then that could be a reason why it didn't work. They get pushed down and simply cleaning the contacts won't help. I can't help on the bypass. Maybe another member will be able to pitch in on that

 

id do what scythe said first, but to bypass it find a wiring diagram
you'll need the switched power and the constant power. Tap the constant into the switched power then put a switch on the constant

 

do you mean the springs holding the copper connections?

 

http://www.audiworld.com/tech/elec114.shtml

I mean the spring beneath these copper connectors



They'll pop out and only go in one way. The springs beneath them can get stuck in a down position, especially if the plastic around them has melted at all. It will prevent them from sliding back up. You should be able to push down on the copper pieces and feel/see them push back up. If they don't slide up, then you'll have to scrape away the plastic on the inside around them so that they can spring back up freely. Be careful so you won't lose the springs. They're literally a few millimeters long and will not be easy to find if dropped

 

thank you, i didnt take that piece apart, but the spring seemed to work fine. I will double
check that tomorrow. Im wondering if my problem might be something other than the headlight switch. I saw no sign of anything melted, just dirty.