The European-spec tail lights for the MK7.5 GTI offer a distinct and stylish upgrade compared to their North American counterparts. This guide details the process of installing and coding these tail lights, transforming your GTI’s rear end with a cleaner, more modern look. This modification maintains compliance with US vehicle lighting regulations.
Sourcing the MK7 5 GTI Tail Lights and Necessary Tools
The key component for this upgrade is acquiring the correct European-spec outer tail lights. Recommended part numbers are listed below. In addition to the tail lights, you’ll need specific tools for a seamless installation:
- OBDELEVEN Next Gen Pro Version: This diagnostic tool is crucial for coding the new tail lights to function correctly.
- Combination Rearlight (Right): VALEO 47192
- Combination Rearlight (Left): VALEO 47191
- VW/Audi Terminal Tool Set: This specialized tool set allows for safe removal and installation of the wiring terminals within the connectors.
- Small Pick Set: A pick set is helpful for releasing the secondary locking mechanisms on the connectors.
Installing Your New MK7.5 GTI Tail Lights: A Step-by-Step Guide
The physical installation of the tail lights is straightforward:
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Remove the Existing Tail Lights: Each outer tail light housing is secured by a single plastic wing nut. Removing these should take less than a minute per side.
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Harness Connector Swap: The North American (NA) connector (brown) needs to be swapped onto the European Union (EU) tail light. This involves carefully removing the terminals from the EU connector (black) and inserting them into the NA connector. A VW/Audi terminal tool is essential for this step.
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Key Wiring Adjustments: Two wires need to be swapped within the connector:
- Move the side marker light wire (originally in pin 2) to the night time rear tail light position.
- Move the tail light wire (originally in pin 4) to the turn signal position (pin 2). This crucial step ensures proper functionality of the turn signals and tail lights. Refer to the wiring diagram below for clarity.
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Reassembly: Once the wiring is complete, reassemble the connectors and install the new tail lights onto the vehicle.
Coding the MK7.5 GTI Tail Lights with OBDELEVEN
After installing the new hardware, coding is required to ensure proper functionality. Using OBDELEVEN, perform the following adjustments:
- Disable Brake Light as Turn Signals: Deactivate the dual-functionality of the brake lights, ensuring they only illuminate when braking.
- Activate Side Markers as Tail Lights: Code the side marker lights to function as the rear tail lights.
- Code Turn Signals: Code the tail lights to function as individual left and right turn signals.
Enjoy Your Upgraded MK7.5 GTI with EU-Spec Tail Lights
With the installation and coding complete, your MK7.5 GTI will now sport the sleek European tail light design. This upgrade offers a visually appealing enhancement, setting your GTI apart with a unique and modern aesthetic.
