my Volkswagen Passat B8 (2015-2022) won't start and just clicks, what is wrong?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools: multimeter, wrench set, screwdriver set, OBD-II scanner.
• Ensure the vehicle is in park (or neutral for manual) and the parking brake is engaged.

2. Battery Inspection and Replacement

• 1.1 Inspect Battery Connections

  • Open the hood and locate the battery.
  • Use a wrench to disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal.
  • Clean any corrosion using a wire brush and a mixture of baking soda and water.

• 1.2 Test Battery Voltage

  • Reconnect the multimeter to the battery terminals (positive to positive, negative to negative).
  • If the voltage is below 12.4 volts, charge or replace the battery.

• 1.3 Replace Battery (if necessary)

  • If the battery is faulty, remove it by unbolting the battery hold-down clamp.
  • Install the new battery in reverse order: place it in the tray, secure it with the clamp, and connect the positive terminal first, then the negative.

3. Starter Motor Inspection

• 2.1 Check Starter Motor Connections

  • Locate the starter motor (usually near the engine block).
  • Ensure all electrical connections are secure and free from corrosion.

• 2.2 Test Starter Functionality

  • Use a multimeter to check for voltage at the starter solenoid while attempting to start the vehicle.
  • If no voltage is present, further investigate wiring or ignition issues.

4. Additional Checks and Replacements

• 3.1 Inspect Ignition Switch

  • If the starter is functional, check the ignition switch for continuity using the multimeter.
  • Replace the ignition switch if malfunctioning.

• 3.2 Scan for Error Codes

  • Use the OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes that could indicate other issues affecting the starting system.