You opened the trunk ŠKODA Yeti, but the lamp does not light up? The problem occurs among owners of models 2009–2017, regardless of configuration. In 80% of cases, burnt out lamps or oxidized contacts are to blame, but sometimes the fault lies deeper - in fuses, wiring or even the body control unit. In this article we will look at all the possible reasons why The light in the trunk doesn't come on, and give step-by-step instructions for diagnosis and repair.

Feature Yeti — sensitivity of electronics to moisture and temperature changes. For example, in models with a panoramic roof, condensation often penetrates into the trunk lamp, causing corrosion of the contacts. And in restyled versions (after 2013) the problem is often related to fuse F36 (10A), which is responsible for the luggage compartment lighting circuit. Don’t rush to go to the service center: most faults can be fixed on your own in 15–30 minutes.

1. Checking the lamp: why it burns out and how to replace it

The first thing to do is check the incandescent lamp (or LED in modern versions). B ŠKODA Yeti a standard lamp is used W5W (5 W) with T10 base. Its service life is about 2-3 years, but with frequent openings of the trunk or vibrations, it may burn out earlier. Signs of malfunction:

  • 💡 The light does not come on when the trunk is opened, but other functions (such as interior lighting) work fine.
  • 🔍 The bulb shows blackening or broken filament.
  • 🌡️ The lamp heats up, but does not light (indicates an open circuit inside).

To replace the lamp:

  1. Open the trunk and remove the dome light. To do this, carefully pry it off from the side (from the side of the trunk hinge) with a flat screwdriver.
  2. Unscrew the socket counterclockwise and remove the lamp.
  3. Install a new lamp W5W (or LED equivalent if you want bright lighting).
  4. Check operation by closing and opening the trunk.

New W5W lamp (or LED T10)|Flat head screwdriver|Gloves (to avoid leaving greasy marks on the bulb)|Multimeter (optional, to check voltage)-->

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the lamp does not light again, do not rush to buy a new one. Check first voltage at lamp contacts multimeter (should be 12V when the trunk is open). No voltage indicates a wiring or fuse problem.

2. Fuse diagnostics: where is it located and how to check

B ŠKODA Yeti The fuse controls the trunk light F36 (10A), located in fuse box under the steering wheel. To get to it:

  1. Open the fuse box cover (it is located to the left of the steering column, under the decorative panel).
  2. Locate fuse F36 (its location is indicated on the back of the cover or in the instruction manual).
  3. Remove the fuse with tweezers and check it visually: if the jumper inside is blown, replace it with a new one (10A only!).
Model Yeti Year of issue Fuse number Denomination
pre-facelift 2009–2013 F36 10A
Restyle 2014–2017 F36 or F42* 10A
RS version 2013–2017 F36 15A**

* In some restyled versions, the trunk lighting is connected to F42.

**B Yeti RS A 15A fuse is used due to the additional electronics.

If the fuse is intact but the light still does not work, check relay K35 (it is responsible for the trunk lighting circuit in some trim levels). The relay is in the same block as the fuses. To check its functionality, you can temporarily swap places with a similar relay (for example, with K34, which is responsible for heating the mirrors).

Only when something breaks|Once a year|Every 10,000 km|Never checked-->

3. Problems with contacts and connectors: cleaning and restoration

Contact oxidation is one of the most common reasons why The light in the trunk doesn't come on. B ŠKODA Yeti The trunk light is connected via a connector with 2–3 contacts (depending on the year of manufacture). Over time, due to moisture or corrosion, the contacts become covered with a green coating, resulting in a poor connection.

How to clean contacts:

  1. Remove the trunk light (as described in the section on replacing the lamp).
  2. Disconnect the connector and inspect the contacts. If they are oxidized, use WD-40 or a special contact cleaner (for example, Kontakt 60).
  3. Gently clean the contacts with fine sandpaper (1000-1200 grit) or an eraser.
  4. Apply to contacts conductive lubricant (for example, Liqui Moly Kupfer-Spray) and put everything back together.

⚠️ Attention: If the contacts are not just oxidized, but melted or blackened, this is a sign of a short circuit. In this case, you need to check the entire wiring chain from the ceiling light to the fuse box. Often the problem lies in frayed wires of the trunk hinge.

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After cleaning the contacts, check the tightness of the lampshade. B Yeti In the first years of production, the sealing gum often becomes tanned, allowing moisture to pass through. Replace it with silicone (item no. 5J6-947-415).

4. Malfunction of the trunk limit switch (switch)

The light in the trunk turns on thanks to limit switch - a small switch that is activated when the lid is opened. B ŠKODA Yeti it is located on the trunk frame (lock side). If the limit switch is broken or dirty, the lamp will not light up.

Signs of limit switch malfunction:

  • 🚪 The light in the trunk is constantly on (even when the trunk is closed).
  • 💥 The lamp does not respond to opening/closing the trunk.
  • 🔧 When you press the limit switch manually, you hear a crunching or fuzzy click.

How to check and replace the limit switch:

  1. Find the limit switch (it is attached to two screws or latches to the trunk lock).
  2. Disconnect the connector and check the resistance with a multimeter: when pressed, it should change from ∞ (open) on 0 ohm (closed).
  3. If the limit switch does not work, replace it with a new one (part number 5J2-945-511 for dorestayla, 5J6-945-511 for facelift).
What to do if the limit switch works, but the light still doesn’t come on?

In some cases the problem lies in comfort block (module J393), which controls the lighting. Diagnosis requires a computer check (for example, through VCDS). If the unit is faulty, it will have to be reflashed or replaced.

5. Wiring problems: where to look for an open or short circuit

If the bulb, fuse, and limit switch are good, but the trunk light still does not work, the problem may be wiring. B ŠKODA Yeti The wires to the trunk light pass through the hinge of the lid, where they often fray or break due to constant movement.

How to find a break:

  1. Remove the trunk trim (it is secured with plastic clips).
  2. Check the wires of the lid hinge - look forinsulation cuts, melting or disconnected contacts.
  3. Use a multimeter in “continuity” mode to check the integrity of the wires (from the ceiling lamp to the fuse box).

Typical break locations:

  • 🔌 Light bulb connector (often oxidizes or comes off).
  • ⚡ The wires are in the corrugation of the trunk hinge (they rub against the metal).
  • 📡 Contacts in the fuse box (may burn due to power surges).

⚠️ Attention: If you find melted insulation or burning smell, do not attempt to repair wiring with electrical tape. B Yeti with a CAN bus, this can lead to malfunctions of other systems (for example, central locking or alarm). In such cases, it is better to replace the harness completely or contact service.

6. Problems with the body control module (J393)

In rare cases, the trunk light does not work due to a malfunction comfort block (J393). This module controls lighting, central locking and other body functions. If the unit is “buggy”, it may not send a signal to turn on the lamp.

Signs of a unit malfunction J393:

  • 🚨 Along with the light in the trunk, other functions stopped working (for example, interior lighting or an alarm).
  • 🔄 The trunk lighting turns on randomly (without opening the lid).
  • 💻 When diagnosing through VCDS or OBDeleven there are errors related to J393 (for example, 01519 — Control Module for Central Locking (J393) — No Signal).

What you can do:

  1. Reset unit errors via diagnostic scanner.
  2. Check the fuse S162 (5A), which protects the power circuit J393.
  3. If the reset does not help, the unit will have to be reflashed or replaced (this is work for the service).
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Before replacing the unit J393 be sure to check its firmware. B Yeti 2014–2017 often helps by flashing to the latest software version (for example, 0369 instead of 0361).

7. Replacing the trunk light: when necessary

If all the previous steps did not help, the problem may be in the trunk light. B ŠKODA Yeti it consists of a housing, a socket and a printed circuit board with resistors (in versions with LEDs). Over time, the board may fail due to:

  • 💧 Moisture ingress (corrosion of tracks).
  • 🔥 Overheating (if lamps of higher power than W5W).
  • 🛠️ Mechanical damage (for example, due to careless dismantling).

How to replace the lampshade:

  1. Order a new lampshade (item no. 5J6-947-415-B for versions with incandescent lamp, 5J6-947-415-C for LED).
  2. Disconnect the old lamp (as described in the section on replacing the lamp).
  3. Connect the new lamp, making sure that the connector is securely seated.

The cost of a new lamp is from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles (depending on the version). If you want to save money, you can try to repair the old board: soldering damaged tracks or replacing resistors often helps.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the trunk light ŠKODA Yeti

Is it possible to install an LED lamp instead of the standard one? W5W?

Yes, but you need to choose LEDs with resistanceso that the control unit does not perceive them as burnt out lamps. Models with a built-in resistor are suitable (for example, Osram LEDriving W5W or Philips WhiteVision LED). Without a resistor, an error light may appear on the dashboard.

Why is the trunk light flickering or dim?

This is a sign bad contact or low voltage in the chain. Check:

  1. Oxidation of contacts in the lampshade or connector.
  2. Battery condition (if the voltage is below 11.8V, the lamp will be dim).
  3. Integrity of the ground wire (it is attached to the battery).
How to reset the trunk light error on the dashboard?

The error can be reset:

  • Via diagnostic scanner (VCDS, OBDeleven).
  • Disconnect the battery for 10-15 minutes (but this will reset all settings, including the radio and trip computer).
  • By pressing and holding the daily mileage reset button when turning on the ignition (does not work on all versions).
Could the trunk light not work due to the alarm?

Yes, if you have a non-standard alarm system installed with a lighting control unit. Some models (eg StarLine or Pandora) may conflict with the comfort unit J393turning off the light in the trunk. Check the alarm settings or disable it temporarily for diagnostic purposes.

Where can I buy spare parts for trunk light repair?

Original spare parts (lamps, shades, limit switches) can be ordered:

  • From official dealers ŠKODA (warranty on parts, but expensive).
  • In online stores (Exist.ru, Autodoc, Emex).
  • On disassembly (cheaper, but without guarantee). See the table above for items.

For LED lamps we recommend proven brands: Osram, Philips, Hella.