Electricity can be strange and fickle. Damaged wiring, corroded connectors, and blown fuses are some problems that can occur due to age and wear. Regular services can prevent these issues, as our technicians will find and repair issues before a problem develops. As your VW dealer, we’d like you to know more about potential electrical problems that can occur.
Electrical Problems? See Your VW Dealer Today
Dead Battery
The battery’s most important function is to provide the power to start your engine. Its secondary purpose is to maintain the electrical systems like the lights, alarm, and other vital components when your engine is switched off. A battery has a limited life and usually needs to be replaced within three to five years.
A battery can die due to other problems, like worn connectors or a weak alternator. We can test your battery’s health with our state-of-the-art battery testing system. The tester subjects your battery to a variety of tests and identifies its strengths and weaknesses. It also gives valuable information on your battery’s possible longevity. If the battery fails the tests, we can replace it while you wait.
Damaged or Broken Wiring
Your VW has a huge amount of wiring that connects the alternator to every one of your car’s electrical components. An engine is a very inhospitable place for wiring, as wires are subject to vibration, dirt, and even moisture. All of these issues are problems with electrical flow, and they can also damage the wiring system. The wiring is protected by thick rubber and plastic insulation, but wires can get damaged over time.
Aged wiring can break, and broken wiring blocks the flow of electricity. The broken wiring can heat up as electricity continues to flow into it, and this can cause the wire’s insulation to burn. Damaged wiring can cause electrical shorts and blown fuses, which create additional problems in the electrical system. Our technicians can trace the flow of electricity through the system and replace any damaged wiring or other issues.
Dim Bulbs
Headlight bulbs dim when they start to wear out. They can also dim due to problems with the alternator, corroded sockets, or damaged wiring. The bulbs require a steady supply of electricity to function. Any fluctuations in the electrical supply will cause damage and shorten their lifespan.
A cracked lens, for example, can allow water into the headlight recess. The water will steadily corrode the bulb socket. This will lead to repeated bulb failures and additional problems in the electrical system. In this example, we’d test the socket and install a new one to fix the issue.
If you experience any problems with the electrical system, call us right away at Tom Bush Volkswagen.


