autom8

I have a 1996 Cabriolet with a number of instrument bulbs blown out. The only guaranteed fitment option that I have found so far is the, green twist base Osram 2W bulbs. All of the bulbs in the cluster that need to be replaced have a tiny red condom on them. Perhaps going with a red LED would be better. Does anyone out there know if there is an LED option for this instrument panel? There are a lot of sellers on Ebay that claim to fit my car but I have my doubts.

Rusty Spokes

I thought about using LEDs but went with the original bulbs. LEDs are directional..that is if you install them and the 12v is on the wrong leg of the LED..they will not illuminate. So getting the LED lamps in correctly is fiddly. I just went to the VW dealer and bought the regular bulbs directly from them..I have had problems with aftermarket bulbs..even those that say "Oscram" on the box. I removed the red condoms and installed on the new VW bulbs. LEDs are not normally dim-able too..so that adds some complexity to the job.

There are a number of bulbs in the cluster to keep track of..green base, black base and white base...each has a different part number.,

Most are part number 893919040A and 4A0919040C..and the base colors may be different too..just note the wattage or base markings

autom8

Thanks for the tip. I think I'll stick to factory bulbs.