[How to] Change reverse lights sensor (1.8/2.0 petrol)

[maxxymilian]

My reverse lights stopped workin recently. The reason - a faulty reverse lights sensor, which is mounted on the gearbox. The change is very simple and can be done easily at home. Here are some pictures on how to change the sensor of 1.8 16V (i guess it's the same for 2.0). As far as i know the HDI's sensor is on a completely different place. !!!Don't remove the sensor until you check that the fuses and the bulbs are in working order!!!

First remove the air filter and it's box. After you remove the box you will have a clear view of the sensor.


The cables can be disassembled after a metal holder (clip) is removed. I removed it with a small "-"screwdriver. After you remove the holder the cables can be detouched.

If you short-cirquit the two cables going to the sensor the lights should light up! This is the way to be sure the problem is a faulty sensor (don't forget the ignition key). Alternatively you can measure the resistance of the semsor with a multimeter when you turn on and off reverse speed, but this requires someone to put the car in reverse while you mesure. The sensor is removed with socket 22. The price of the new one is arround 12 pounds off the authorized dealers here in bulgaria.

[mickeydread1122]

nice 1 mate at least some Pug owners with petrol versions will learn something from your pictures and guidelines.well done

[steve_earwig]

You should be able to release the connector by pushing the metal clip in the middle - this deforms it so the outside legs spread and release it - viewtopic.php?f=1&t=4265&p=41912&hilit= ... tor#p41912

[robb]

Thanks for the post ,had a look where mine is prior to fitting a new one, in my eyes the clip is too easily dropped and the sensor is beneath some kind of bracket making access with stubby fingers a bit difficult ,it only just fits under the bracket .The people that designed it must have been on the pop

[mjb]

You should be able to release the connector by pushing the metal clip in the middle - this deforms it so the outside legs spread and release it - viewtopic.php?f=1&t=4265&p=41912&hilit= ... tor#p41912

Not these ones. Most you can but this one you need to lever the clip out about half way where you'll feel the 'lumps' fall into a separate groove in the plug... I believe the XU10J2TE wastegate valve also has the same type of plug on it

[steve_earwig]

Ok, that's me told There's still no real need to flick the thing all the way out into the clear blue yonder though...

[mjb]

Ok, that's me told There's still no real need to flick the thing all the way out into the clear blue yonder though...

No need, but sometimes it's pretty inevitable. Especially if you've got the plug over somewhere you REALLY don't want to drop a little bit of metal. That'll guarantee it comes flying out