Volkswagens are popular vehicles due to their reliability; you know you’ve got a good car when you sit behind the wheel of a VW. However, with that reliability comes the responsibility of maintenance and upkeep. Part of that upkeep is the vehicle’s battery. As a very visible piece, it is something you can often clean off or deal with yourself, but occasionally you may need professional help with your Volkswagen battery.
It’s not uncommon for the battery terminals in a VW to become corroded. This can happen for a number of reasons, including exposure to the elements or simply age. Corroded battery terminals can make it difficult to start your vehicle, and if left unchecked, can lead to more serious problems.
What are the signs of a corroded battery terminal?
If you notice that your car’s electrical system isn’t working as well as it should, it may be due to a corroded battery terminal. The lights may be dimmer than usual, the stereo may cut in and out, and the engine may not start as easily. If you suspect that your battery terminal is corroded, you should take it to a trusted mechanic to have it checked out.
In most cases, the problem can be fixed with a simple cleaning. However, if the corrosion is severe, you may need to have the battery terminal replaced. Either way, it’s important to have the problem addressed as soon as possible to avoid more serious issues down the road.
What causes battery terminals to corrode?
Battery terminals can corrode for a number of reasons. One common cause is exposure to moisture, which can happen if you live in an area with high humidity levels. Another cause of corrosion is sulfation, which occurs when sulfuric acid builds up on the terminals. This can happen if you don’t clean your battery terminals regularly.
With that in mind, it is recommended to keep battery terminal cleaning supplies in your vehicle at all times. Whenever you open your hood for any reason, give them a quick scrub to keep them working properly.
How can you clean a corroded battery terminal?
If your battery terminal is only mildly corroded, you can try cleaning it with a wire brush. If the corrosion is more severe, you may need to use a product like WD-40 to loosen the corrosion. Once you’ve loosened the corrosion, you can scrub it off with a wire brush. If the terminal is severely corroded, you may need to replace it.
If you suspect your battery terminal needs to be replaced, you will need to take your VW to a trustworthy mechanic who knows European vehicles. A skilled service technician will be able to tell you if the terminal needs to be replaced, or if it can be salvaged with some intensive cleaning.
How can you prevent corrosion on battery terminals?
You can prevent corrosion on your battery terminals by cleaning them regularly and keeping them dry. You can also buy products that are designed to protect battery terminals from corrosion. These products usually come in the form of a spray or gel that you apply to the terminals.
Another important step in preventing corrosion is ensuring your Volkswagen gets regular servicing from a mechanic who is familiar with European vehicles. During regular maintenance, your mechanic will look over your battery and can catch any potential corrosion early.
Trust Woodinville Sports Cars with Your Volkswagen
At Woodinville Sports Cars, we have highly-experienced and certified technicians who are skilled with the different Volkswagen models. We help VW drivers with battery issues as well as other problems they may be dealing with in their car. We are dedicated to solving your vehicle’s problems quickly and efficiently, at prices that won’t break the bank.
VW drivers in Woodinville as well as surrounding areas such as Bothell, Everett, Kenmore, Kirkland, Mill Creek, Monroe, Redmond, and Snohomish can count on us for quality auto repairs. Whatever service you may require, be it factory maintenance or emergency repairs, our team is available to help! Please contact us today to schedule an appointment or visit our service center to make inquiries about our services. Our friendly team is ready and waiting to help.
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