With cars being filled with more technology every passing day, the strain on their batteries continues to grow. A vehicle's battery, like many other parts, will require eventual replacement. With the battery's performance now more crucial than ever, knowing when and how to replace it will go a long way.
This job is about as easy as it gets as far as maintenance is concerned. The batteries on Volkswagen-Audi Group’s MQB platform are easily accessible and are held in by a single bolt. Don't get stuck with a dead battery; read or watch below as we show you how to change your battery yourself in a matter of minutes.
Volkswagen/Audi Models & Years Applicable: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What are the symptoms of a dead/dying battery? |
- The engine will turn over, but not start
- The engine will not turn over
- Dimming lights
- Leaking battery acid
- Corrosion around battery area
A lack of sufficient electrical power will be the most prominent sign when it comes to knowing its time for a battery replacement. However, there are many parts of your charging system that could be at fault. A lack of charge may be caused by an alternator not putting enough charge back into the battery. Local auto parts stores have the equipment to test these parts and are a useful tool in determining what needs to be changed.
What will it cost to replace the battery in an MQB platform Audi/Volkswagen? |
The only part you’ll need to purchase is a new battery. The battery used in this DIY is available on our website and will cost around $250. While that might seem expensive, batteries will often have a lifespan of over five years.
How long will it take to replace the battery in an MQB platform Audi/Volkswagen? |
Replacing the battery is a simple job. It will not take an extended amount of time for even the most inexperienced DIYers. With the right tools, this job should take no longer than ten minutes.
Tools required to replace the battery in an MQB platform Audi/Volkswagen |
Parts required to replace the battery in an MQB platform Audi/Volkswagen |
Steps required to replace the battery in an MQB platform Audi/Volkswagen |
Step 1: Locate the battery and disconnect the terminals
The battery for the MQB platform cars is located in their engine bay. Move aside the battery cover and identify which battery post is negative. The negative post will have a minus sign near or on it and is the terminal closest to the firewall.
Loosen the pinch bolt that secures the end of the battery cable to the negative battery post with the 10mm wrench. Once removed, tuck the cable aside. Now, repeat this process with the positive side of the battery.
Step 2: Remove the battery hold-down bracket and remove the battery
A metal bracket clamps around the foot of the battery to hold it in place. There is one bolt holding it in place, and it is located just in front of the battery.
To reach the bolt, use the 13mm socket with an extension. The bracket is free to be removed once the bolt is. Next, pull the bracket out and set it aside.
The battery is now free to be removed. Use the strap on the top of the battery to pull it out. The battery weighs close to thirty pounds, so use caution when removing it. The battery’s protective cover will likely come out with the battery. Transfer the cover onto the new battery.
Step 3: Put in the new battery and secure it
Before setting the battery in the car, clean any areas that have corrosion on them. Hot water and baking soda, or specific battery corrosion cleaner will do the job.
Make sure to have the negative post closest to the firewall, like the battery that was pulled out. Next, put the hold-down bracket over the foot of the new battery and secure it with the bolt. Once the battery is secured down, go ahead and reconnect the battery cables.
When reconnecting the battery cables, attach the positive cable to the battery before the negative cable.
Step 4: Start the vehicle and clear the error codes
Since all of the control modules were without power, they need to be reset. To do this, take a drive around the block. This should be enough for the computers to re-establish a connection with their various sensors. Lastly, check the clock. If you need to make a change, select setup on your infotainment system. You will have the ability to change it in this menu.
And there you have it - your vehicle is now fully charged and ready to soldier on. If you’re interested in more DIYs for your Audi or Volkswagen, you can visit vw.fcpeuro.com or subscribe to our YouTube channel.
