Phaeton :: How To Remove Taillight From Trunk

I've having difficulty removing the taillights from the trunk. I'm sure it is simple but there must be a trick to do this properly. I've removed the nuts but I can't bulge the "lockwashers" per the instructions. The threaded stud is a special design and has some type of spring mechanism. I tried removing one of these a few years ago and I broke the stud. How is this done? Below are the Bentley instructions which are not useful.

Volkswagen > Phaeton > 2004-2006
Electrical Equipment
94 - Taillamps Tail light assembly in luggage compartment lid, removing and installing

Removing:

-Switch off ignition, switch off all electrical components and remove ignition key.
-Remove trim for rear lid Body Interior - Repair Group 70 .
-Release the latching mechanism - arrow - and separate the connector.
-Remove bolts - arrows - .
-Remove the lock washers and the tail light housing.

Installing: Install in reverse order of removal, noting the following:

-If a new taillight is being installed, remove the protective foil from the gasket.
-Connect the connector.
-Insert the taillight into the body opening.

Note: When installing the taillight housing, pay attention to the gap dimensions.

-Gap dimensions of tail lamp assemblies .
-Move the taillight by hand into the correct position in the body, hold the position and then tighten the nuts.
-Tighten the nuts using 4 Nm torque.
-Coding or adaptation of the taillight is not required after installation.
-Check the rear light function, Rear light function, checking .