why does my Volkswagen Golf battery die when the car is off

Solution

1. Preparation

• Tools Required: Multimeter, ammeter, socket set, wrench set, OBD-II scanner.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the ignition is off.

2. Battery Inspection

• Disconnect the negative battery terminal using a wrench.
• Clean any corrosion from the terminals with a wire brush.
• Reconnect the battery terminal securely.

3. Testing for Parasitic Draw

• Disconnect the negative battery terminal again.
• Connect the ammeter in series between the negative terminal and the battery post.
• Record the current draw and identify if it exceeds acceptable limits.

4. Isolating the Circuit

• Remove fuses one at a time while observing the ammeter for changes in current draw.
• Once the draw drops significantly, identify the circuit associated with the last fuse removed.

5. Repairing the Faulty Circuit

• If a specific component is identified (e.g., trunk light or radio), repair or replace the faulty part.
• Ensure connections are secure and test individual components for proper operation.

6. Final Check

• Reconnect all fuses and terminals, ensuring everything is secure.
• Test the vehicle to ensure the battery holds a charge and electrical systems function correctly.