headlight switch- 83 rabbit gti

[vdubbin1988]

I've got an 83 rabbit gti 5 speed 1.8 and i've been through 3 different headlight switchs and they all do the same thing. one being brand new. only the headlights, blinkers, and brake lights will work. no taillights, license plate lights, parking lights and dash lights. all the fuses are fine and i've been around volkswagens all my life and i cant find the problem.
any help?

Thanks

[Racer 187]

First I'd check to see that all the bulbs installed are, in fact, the correct bulbs. When I got mine about 10years ago all the lights (headlights, tails, dome) came on when pressing the brake pedal. After much searching a BMW mechanic figured it out- Wrong bulb in one of the tailight housings. Other than that I'd just try to trace whatever you've installed last- pinched wire behind stereo etc.

[stevethefolkie]

I'd check the HL relay - or swap in a known good one - if I still wasn't happy I'd check the wiring TO the HL switch - making sure that I was getting voltage to it - if not - then I'd start tracing.