Checking the battery (VW Golf 4)

Cleanliness of the battery and especially its upper surface is especially important, since the layer of dirt that accumulates on it easily forms conductive paths that lead to self-discharge of the battery. Cleanliness is important not only for a serviced battery, but also for a maintenance-free battery, which, despite its name, is not completely maintenance-free.



The battery is located on the left front side of the engine compartment.

Execution order

1. Check the tightness of the battery clamps (A) and the integrity of the wire insulation (B).



2. If there is corrosion on the battery terminals in the form of a white, loose coating, disconnect the terminals from the battery and clean them with a small wire brush.





3. Using a small wire brush, clean the terminals on the cables that connect to the battery. If necessary, rinse the terminals with a solution of baking soda and warm water. Be careful not to let the baking soda solution get into the battery cells.

4. Check that the battery mounting nuts are securely tightened. Do not overtighten the nuts, as this may damage the battery case.

5.Before connecting the battery clamps, lubricate the terminals with acid-free petroleum jelly and anti-corrosion compound.

6.Periodically (once a quarter) check the battery charge level by measuring the density of the electrolyte in the battery cells.