How to Change the Battery on a Volkswagen ( VW )

In this guide, you will find step-by-step instructions on how to change the car battery on Volkswagen vehicles. 

This guide will help you learn how to change the battery on Volkswagen Golf, Jetta, Bettle, Routan, Tiguan, Passat, Bora.  The video and pictures are from a 2016 Volkswagen Jetta, but the procedure is similar for most VW models.

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 Change a Volkswagen battery

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

1. Park your 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 the hood stays up on its own. 

    

3. Locate the battery and lift or remove the cover if your battery has one. 

    

4. Use a 10mm wrench to loosen the nut on the negative (-) battery terminal. 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 all the way to the left and all the way to the right a couple of times. 

The most important tip to keep in mind when replacing a Volkswagen battery is to ensure the replacement battery is the same group size as the old battery and has specifications that are very close to the old battery.

Meaning Cranking Amps (CA) and Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) need to be similar to the old battery. If the old battery is not stock, the recommended battery size and specifications are listed in your owner's manual.  

How long does a VW car battery last?

On average, a new car battery will last 4 to 5 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 yourself is between $85-$150. Many auto parts stores will replace your Volkswagen for free if you purchase the battery from them.