Got a new (to me) warning light displayed yesterday - worked out it was a bulb failure (only 4 months from new). Taking the headlamp unit out seems a bit over the top and then I couldn't get the connector off. Never mind, as you can do the next bit with it still attached. The nice picture in the handbook showing you how to extract the sidelight bulb holder ignores the fact that it is concealed in the corner of the unit and there is no way you can get your fingers round it. Luckily there is enough space to get pliers onto the plastic release tabs and pull it out. Obviously the unit wasn't designed by someone who replaces bulbs!!!

Thanks - I did a guide to changing headlight bulbs some time ago(http://www.briskoda.net/forums/technical-guides/new-octavia-headlight-bulb-change/69565/#post1046033), and I must admit I spotted the sidelights but didn't attempt to change them!

As you say they are not the easiet things to get at.

I wonder if the manual has changed - I'm sure mine just says bulb changes must be referred to your dealer

open bonnet ,on back of headlamp a plastic srew(white) screw off.At side of headlamp is a hook pull it and the headlamp will click and partly come out, pul it out.When putting back in dont force it just push till resistance then push the hook and it should click back in. Dont for get the plstic screw.

Exactly, two seconds to remove the headlamp and no tools required. Its why its been designed like it.

Exactly, two seconds to remove the headlamp and no tools required. Its why its been designed like it.

That may be so Ross, but to extract and replace the side light bulbs requires the dexterity of a contorsionist with ultra thin fingers!

Or a set of long reach long nosed pliers.

I had no difficulties in replacing mine. Took the whole unit off and disconnected connector. It took a while to connector to unplug, but after 1 minute trying it went off and whole unit was in my hands.