How to Replace the Car Battery in a Volkswagen: A Step-by-Step Guide

Replacing the car battery in a Volkswagen vehicle is a straightforward process that can be done with the proper tools and a basic understanding of automotive electrical systems. To avoid potential hazards, it is important to ensure the engine is turned off and wear safety goggles before beginning the battery replacement process. This guide will walk you through the steps to safely and effectively change the car battery in your VW vehicle.

What you will need

• Replacement H5 or H6 12Volt Battery ( Check owner’s manual. H5 and H6 are the most common battery sizes used on VW vehicles.
• 10mm socket
• 13mm socket
• Ratchet wrench
• 4″ 3/8 Extension
• Battery Protector (Recommended)
• Battery Terminal Brush (Recommended)

How to Replace a Volkswagen Battery

Gather all the tools and allow the engine to cool down before you start.

1. Park the Volkswagen on level ground. Turn off the ignition and set the parking brake(s).
2. Pull the hood release under the dashboard. Go to the front of the vehicle, release the hood latch, and lift the hood. Secure the hood with the hood rod or ensure it stays up. 
3. Locate the battery and lift or remove the cover if your battery has one. 
4. Use a 10mm wrench to loosen the negative (-) battery terminal nut. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. 
5. Loosen the 10mm nut on the positive battery terminal. Disconnect the positive battery terminal. 
6. Remove the 13mm bolt for the battery bracket. Remove the bracket on the side of the battery. Be careful not to drop the bracket. 
7. Carefully remove the old battery from the car. Batteries are heavy; get someone to help you remove the old battery.
8. Clean the battery tray area and place the new battery in the tray.
9. Reinstall the battery bracket.
10. Clean the battery terminals with a wire brush.
11. Connect the positive battery terminal.
12. Lastly, connect the negative battery.
13. When you start the engine, you will notice that the traction control light and several other lights may be on. To reset the VW steering angle sensor, turn the steering wheel to the left and right several times.

The most important tip to keep in mind when replacing a Volkswagen battery is to ensure the battery is the same group size as the old battery and has very close specifications. This means Cranking Amps (CA) and Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) need to be similar to the old battery. Your owner’s manual lists the recommended battery size and specifications if the old battery is unavailable.

How long does a VW car battery last?

On average, a new car battery will last four to five years. AGM batteries tend to last longer compared to lead acid. An AGM (absorbed glass mat) battery contains a special glass mat separator that wicks the electrolyte solution between the battery plates.

VW Battery Replacement Cost

The average cost to replace a Volkswagen battery at the dealer or mechanics is between $187 and $280. The average cost to replace a Volkswagen battery is between $85-$150. Many auto parts stores will replace your Volkswagen for free if you purchase the battery from them.

Can I replace a Volkswagen battery myself?

Yes, you can replace the battery in your Volkswagen car yourself. Replacing the battery is a simple process that can be done with the right tools and a basic understanding of automotive electrical systems. However, following proper safety procedures and consulting your car’s owner’s manual for specific instructions for your vehicle model is important.

Do Volkswagen batteries need to be programmed?

In most cases, Volkswagen batteries do not need to be programmed after replacement. However, some VW models with advanced electrical systems may require programming or coding of the battery after replacement. It is best to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a professional mechanic to determine if your VW requires battery programming.

Conclusion

When replacing a Volkswagen car battery, it’s important to take safety precautions such as wearing protective gear and turning off the engine and all electrical systems. Ensure you have the correct replacement battery by checking the owner’s manual or the battery specifications under the hood. Label the cables before removing them, and clean the battery terminals and cable ends to prevent corrosion. Tighten the cable connections securely, dispose of the old battery properly at a designated recycling center, and consider checking the alternator if you’ve recently had battery issues.

This guide will help you learn how to change the battery on the Volkswagen Golf, Jetta, Bettle, Routan, Tiguan, Passat, and Bora. The video and pictures are from a 2016 Volkswagen Jetta, but the procedure is similar for most VW models. We hope you find the Volkswagen Battery Replacement Guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Volkswagen.