AudiWorld Forums

Audi A6 C5/C6: How to Replace Front Parking Lights

This article will show you how to change out the parking lights the quick and easy way.

By Brett Foote - April 8, 2016

This article applies to the Audi A6 C5/C6 (1998-2011).

There are, quite literally, several ways to access and change out the front parking lights on an Audi A6. Some advocate going in through the rear of the headlight housing, while others even use a credit card or putty knife to pry the lenses off. But as you can imagine (and hope), there is a much easier way to get the job done that is both quick and easy, and it's much less likely to break expensive parts in the process. Keep reading and we'll walk you through the process.

Materials Needed

  • Replacement parking light bulbs OR replacement front parking light assemblies
  • Flashlight (optional)

Step 1 – Remove fog light/lower grille assemblies

By far the easiest way to gain access to the front parking light bulbs is through the lower fog light grille assemblies. Each grille is held in place with a series of retention clips. To remove each one, simply pull out on it (without using too much force as they can break) until it releases from the clips. Once removed, set the grille to the side for now.

The easiest way to access the front parking light bulbs is through the front fog light grilles.
Figure 1. The easiest way to access the front parking light bulbs is through the front fog light grilles.

Step 2 – Replace the front parking lights

With the grilles removed, reach up into the opening and find the side marker. On the far end of the marker, closest to the car's door, you will find a metal clip. Release that clip by pushing it towards you or the front of the car. The passenger side is pretty easy to reach, but the driver's side can be a pain. If needed, use a flashlight to help locate it.

Figure 2. Remove the parking light assembly.

Once the light assembly is out, disconnect the harness from the back and remove the water seal to access the bulb if you are replacing it. Otherwise, remove the entire assembly and replace it with your shiny new ones.

A set of clear front parking lights swapped out for the old amber ones.
Figure 3. The amber parking lights were swapped out for clear ones here.

Related Discussions