why does my Volkswagen Passat B8 (2015-2022) have an electrical burning smell

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shock.
• Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and safely secured with wheel chocks.

2. Visual Inspection

• Sub-step 1: Inspect the wiring harnesses for any visible damage, such as frayed wires or burnt insulation.
• Sub-step 2: Check under the dashboard for any melted components or wires.
• Tools Required: Flashlight

3. Test Electrical Components

• Sub-step 1: Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the battery terminals; it should read around 12.6 volts with the engine off.
• Sub-step 2: Check the voltage output of the alternator; it should be between 13.8 to 14.2 volts with the engine running.
• Tools Required: Multimeter

4. Replace Damaged Components

• Sub-step 1: If any damaged wires or connections are found, cut away the damaged section and splice in new wire of the same gauge, ensuring proper insulation.
• Sub-step 2: Replace any burnt fuses or relays identified during inspection with components of the same amperage rating.
• Tools Required: Wire strippers, crimp connectors, soldering iron (if soldering is preferred), fuse puller

5. Reassemble and Test

• Sub-step 1: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
• Sub-step 2: Start the vehicle and test all electrical components to ensure functionality.