Do it yourself, remove and change the master window switch on your VW Passat. The replacement process for this part is similar on models manufactured in the years 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001. The procedure is very simple and can be done in less than 5 minutes. The only tools you’ll need are a flat blade screwdriver and a Phillips screwdriver.
In the beginning you have to open the front door on the driver’s side, where the master window switch is located. Start by prying out the plastic part seen in the image below, using the tip of a flat blade screwdriver.
Once that piece of plastic is removed, you can use the same screwdriver to pry out the entire arm pull. You can insert it as seen in the next picture, from the left, exterior side of the door.
After you lift it up, you will notice a harnesses beneath it. That is used to power the switch and must be unplugged, in order to finish your repair. Now, the switch module itself is just the piece of plastic with the buttons in the middle of the arm pull and that can be separated very simply by removing the three Phillips screws that secure it.
Make the replacements needed and install the new module into the door panel, reversing the steps above. This is all you have to do, if you plan to remove and replace the master window switch on your VW Passat, made between the years 1998 and 2001.