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Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Golf/MK8.5 (2024-Present)/what causes my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) headlights to flicker while driving

what causes my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) headlights to flicker while driving

Volkswagen Golf MK8.5 (2024-Present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium1-2 hours
3 min read
449 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix flickering headlights in Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
1-2 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.

Symptoms

  • •Headlights flickering intermittently
  • •Dimming of dashboard lights
  • •Possible warning lights illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Increased frequency of flickering during engine load (e.g., acceleration)
  • •Battery warning light may come on
  • •Electrical accessories (such as radio or power windows) may also show signs of fluctuation

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the battery and its connections for corrosion or loose terminals.
  2. 2Check the alternator output voltage using a multimeter to ensure it is within the normal range (13.7 to 14.7 volts).
  3. 3Examine the headlight bulbs for any signs of damage or wear.
  4. 4Inspect the headlight wiring harness for frayed wires or poor connections.
  5. 5Scan the vehicle's onboard computer for any trouble codes related to the charging system.
  6. 6Test the headlight relay for proper operation.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety.

2. Battery Inspection

  • Sub-steps:
    • Inspect battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections.
    • Clean terminals with a wire brush and a mixture of baking soda and water if corrosion is present.
    • Tighten any loose connections.

3. Alternator Testing

  • Tools Required: Multimeter
  • Sub-steps:
    • Reconnect the battery terminal.
    • Start the engine and use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the battery terminals.
    • If the voltage is outside the range of 13.7 to 14.7 volts, the alternator may need replacement.

4. Headlight Bulb and Wiring Inspection

  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the headlight assembly according to the vehicle’s manual.
    • Check the bulbs for any signs of damage; replace if necessary.
    • Inspect the wiring harness for frayed wires; repair or replace as needed.

5. Relay Replacement

  • Tools Required: Socket set
  • Sub-steps:
    • Locate the headlight relay in the fuse box.
    • Remove the old relay and replace it with a new one.
    • Ensure the relay clicks into place securely.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Multimeter
  • Wire brush
  • Socket set

Parts Required

  • Headlight bulbs (if damaged)
  • Headlight relay (if faulty)

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

1-2 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

3 items

Parts

2 items

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