Tail light on Ε koda Yeti - a unit that sooner or later requires attention: be it replacing a light bulb, repairing after an accident, or installing LED modules. It would seem like a simple operation, but in practice, owners are faced with unobvious difficulties: from βsouredβ fasteners to the risk of damaging plastic latches. This article will not just list the dismantling steps - we will analyze hidden nuances, which save hours of time and nerves.
Feature Yeti (especially models 2009β2013) - the design of the rear optics, where the manufacturer combined ease of access with the fragility of fasteners. For example, the left and right lights are removed differently due to the location of the wiring harness, and on restyled versions (2014+) additional clamps have been added. If you have never worked with Czech electrics, prepare for surprises: from non-standard connectors to the need to remove part of the trunk trim.
Preparation: Tools and Precautions
Before you begin dismantling, make sure you have on hand:
- π§ Flat head screwdriver with a thin tip (for prying up latches). An ideal tool for removing interior panels.
- π© 8 mm socket wrench or a head with a ratchet - for the flashlight mounting bolts (on some modifications - 10 mm).
- 𧀠Cotton gloves. The plastic of the flashlight is easy to scratch, and your hands can get dirty from road dirt.
- π Multimeter or tester (optional). Useful for checking contacts after removal if the lamp did not light.
A critical mistake for beginners is ignoring battery disconnection. On Yeti Even when the ignition is turned off, the rear light circuits may remain energized (for example, when the door is open or the interior lighting is on). To avoid short circuit or blown fuse F37 (responsible for the right lamp) or F38 (left), be sure to remove the negative terminal from the battery before starting work.
β οΈ Attention: If on your Yeti system installed Park Assist (parking sensors), do not pull on the light wiring harness - the sensors are connected to the same connector. A sudden movement can tear off the contacts!
Work in a well-lit area. If you remove the flashlight outdoors, choose a windless day: dust and debris entering the open housing can cause fogging of the optics. Cover the trunk with cardboard or cloth - this will protect the lining from scratches if the tool accidentally falls.
Step 1: Removing the trunk trim (if necessary)
On most Ε koda Yeti (except for basic configurations) the rear light is partially covered by a plastic trunk panel. To gain full access to the fastenings, it will have to be dismantled:
- Open the trunk and remove all items, including the carpet.
- Remove the plastic plugs (usually there are 4-5 of them) - pry them off from the side with a screwdriver. Screws or clips are hidden under them.
- Gently pull the panel towards you, starting from the top corner. The clips are fragile, so do not use force.
On restyled models (2014β2017), the trim can be secured with additional latches near the trunk hinge. If the panel does not give way, check whether the screw under the rubber seal has gone unnoticed.
How to distinguish a restyled Yeti?
On cars after 2014, the shape of the rear lights was changed (they became more angular), and chrome inserts were added to the bumper. The interior now features glove compartment lighting and an updated multimedia system.
After removing the trim, you will see a wiring harness going to the light. Do not pull on it - first disconnect the connector (more on this in the next step). If there are traces of oxidation or melting on the wires, this is a signal of possible problems with the ground or fuses.
Step 2: Disconnecting the electrical connector
Flashlight power connector Yeti - weak point. Its contacts often oxidize, and the retainer breaks if removed carelessly. Here's how to avoid problems:
- Locate the white or black plastic connector on the back of the light. There is a small locking lever on it.
- Press the latch up (on some models - down) and at the same time pull the connector towards you.
- If the connector does not budge, do not pull it! Spray contacts WD-40 or similar lubricant and wait 5-10 minutes.
After disconnecting, inspect the contacts for corrosion. Oxidized terminals can be cleaned with an eraser or a special contact liquid. If the wires are frayed or the insulation is cracked, replace the harness - this is a common cause of non-functioning brake lights.
If the lights do not light after removing the lamp, check the fuses. F37 (right lamp) and F38 (left) in the block under the steering wheel. On diesel versions also check the relay J329 in an additional block.
| Problem | Possible reason | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The connector does not disconnect | Acidification of the retainer or contacts | Apply WD-40, gently rock the connector left and right |
| Lights do not light up after installation | Contact oxidation or ground breakage | Clean the contacts, check the ground on the body |
| Flashlight fogs up after removal | The seal is damaged or there is a crack in the housing | Replace the rubber seal and check for leaks |
Step 3: Dismantling the lamp mounts
Lantern on Yeti secured with a combination of bolts and plastic latches. Their number depends on the year of manufacture:
- π§ 2009β2013: 2 bolts (top and bottom) + 3 latches.
- π§ 2014β2017: 3 bolts (middle one added) + 2 latches.
Procedure:
- Unscrew the bolts with a socket wrench. Donβt lose them - only original ones will be suitable for replacement (item number
N 908 132 02). - Gently push down on the light from the outside (trunk side) to release the latches. Start from the top corner.
- Pull the flashlight towards you, rocking it slightly from side to side. If it doesn't work, check that all the bolts are unscrewed.
β οΈ Attention: On versions with LED optics (optional 8Z2) there is an additional board inside the lamp. Do not pull the wires - first disconnect its connector (it is hidden under the rubber cover).
If the latches are broken, do not try to fix them with superglue - this is a temporary solution. Order new ones (item number 5E0 945 659 for the left lamp, 5E0 945 660 for the right one). Remember: one broken latch will cause the light to vibrate on bumps and allow moisture to get inside.
Disconnected battery|Removed trunk trim|Disconnected electrical connector|Unscrewed all mounting bolts|Prepared a place for placing the flashlight (soft surface)-->
Step 4: Removing the light and diagnosing faults
After releasing the fastenings, carefully remove the flashlight. Don't place it on concrete or asphalt - use cardboard or fabric. Inspect:
- π‘ Light bulbs: Even if one is burned out, check the others. On Yeti The reverse lamp often fails (
W16W). - π§οΈ Sealant: If the rubber has hardened or cracked, it must be replaced (part number
5E0 945 657). - π Contacts: Blackening or green coating is a sign of oxidation. Clean them with fine sandpaper.
If the light is removed to replace bulbs, use only original or certified analogues (for example, Osram or Philips). Cheap Chinese lamps often overheat and melt the socket. For LED upgrades Resistance snag will be required 6 ohm, otherwise the on-board computer will generate an error.
If you find cracks on the flashlight body, do not rush to buy a new one. Minor damage can be repaired with a special sealant for plastic (for example, Loctite Plastics). The main thing is to ensure tightness, otherwise moisture will quickly damage the electronics.
- Halogen
- LED
- Xenon
- I don't know
Installing the flashlight and checking its functionality
Assembly occurs in the reverse order, but there are critical points:
- Before installation, apply a thin layer silicone grease on the seal - this will extend its service life.
- Tighten the bolts crosswise to avoid distortion of the lamp.
- After connecting the connector, check all operating modes: brake light, dimensions, turn signal and reverse.
If, after installation, the light bulbs blink or burn at full intensity, the problem is in the mass. On Yeti The "mass" wire of the flashlight is attached to the body under a bolt near the trunk hinge (on the left). Clean the contact area and lubricate Liqui Moly Kupfer-Spray.
Don't forget to check the tightness after installation. To do this, direct a stream of water from a hose at the lantern (without pressure!) and observe the inside. If drops appear, re-treat the seal or replace it.
On restyled Yeti (2014+), after installing the light, you need to reset the on-board computer errors through a diagnostic scanner (for example, VCDS). Otherwise, the lighting fault indication may light up.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced car owners make mistakes when working with rear optics. Yeti. Here are the top 5 mistakes and their consequences:
- Ignoring battery disconnection β Short circuit, blown fuse or comfort unit (
J393). - Pressing the latches firmly β Cracks in the flashlight body or broken latches.
- Using non-original lamps β Overheating of the cartridge, melting of the contacts.
- Untested tightness β Fogging of the flashlight and corrosion of contacts.
- Forgotten mounting bolts β Vibration of the lamp on bumps, cracks in the glass.
If after all the manipulations the flashlight does not work, check:
- π Fuses
F37/F38and relayJ329. - π Mass on the body (contact cleanliness).
- πΆ Wiring from the lantern to the comfort block (breaks, chafing).
On diesel versions Yeti (especially with engines 2.0 TDI) sometimes current protection is triggered. If after replacing the lamps the light flashes 3 times and goes out, reset the error via the diagnostic connector.
FAQ: Answers to popular questions
Is it possible to remove the light without removing the trunk trim?
Theoretically yes, but only on basic trim levels without a system Park Assist. However, access to the bolts will be extremely inconvenient, and the risk of breaking the latches will increase 3 times. It is better to spend 10 minutes dismantling the casing.
What sealant should I use to repair cracks?
The best option is 3M Scotch-Weld DP8005 (two-component epoxy adhesive) or Loctite 330 (for plastic). Do not use silicone sealants - they do not withstand temperature changes.
What should I do if, after replacing the lamp, the error indication on the device lights up?
On Yeti Since 2014, it is required to reset errors via a diagnostic scanner (for example, VCDS or OBDeleven). An alternative is to disconnect the battery for 15 minutes, but this will not always work.
Is it possible to install LED lamps without cheating?
No. Without decoy resistors (with a resistance of 6 Ohms), the on-board computer will record an error due to the LED resistance being too low. The fakes are installed parallel to the lamp.
Where can I buy original latches and seals?
Original spare parts can be ordered by article number:
- Latches:
5E0 945 659(left),5E0 945 660(right). - Seal:
5E0 945 657. - Mounting bolts:
N 908 132 02.
Analogues: Febi, Meyle or Topran (quality comparable to the original).