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Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Golf/MK8.5 (2024-Present)/my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) dashboard lights are flickering, what should I do

my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) dashboard lights are flickering, what should I do

Volkswagen Golf MK8.5 (2024-Present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium1-3 hours
3 min read
498 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix flickering dashboard lights in a Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions.

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before inspecting electrical components near it

Symptoms

  • •Flickering dashboard lights
  • •Dimming or brightening of interior lights
  • •Possible warning lights illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Difficulty starting the vehicle
  • •Unresponsive electrical components (e.g., radio, power windows)
  • •Intermittent loss of power to electrical systems

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Check the battery voltage using a multimeter to ensure it is within the normal range (12.4 - 12.7 volts)
  2. 2Inspect battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are securely connected
  3. 3Examine the alternator output by checking the voltage while the engine is running (should be between 13.8 - 14.4 volts)
  4. 4Scan the vehicle’s computer system for any error codes using an OBD-II scanner
  5. 5Inspect the vehicle’s wiring harness for any signs of damage or loose connections
  6. 6Check the fuses related to the dashboard and electrical system for any blown fuses

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

2. Battery Inspection

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, wire brush, terminal cleaner.
  • Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion:
    1. Use a wire brush to clean corroded terminals.
    2. Reconnect the terminals securely.
  • Test the battery with the multimeter:
    1. Connect the multimeter leads to the battery terminals.
    2. If the voltage is low, replace the battery.

3. Alternator Testing

  • Tools Required: Multimeter.
  • Start the engine and measure the alternator output:
    1. Connect the multimeter leads to the battery terminals while the engine is running.
    2. If the output is below the specified range, consider replacing the alternator.

4. Wiring and Fuse Check

  • Tools Required: Fuse puller, multimeter.
  • Inspect the wiring harness:
    1. Look for frayed wires or loose connections, especially near the dashboard area.
    2. Repair or replace any damaged wiring.
  • Check fuses related to the dashboard:
    1. Remove each fuse and inspect for continuity using a multimeter.
    2. Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage.

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
  • Terminal cleaner
  • Fuse puller

Parts Required

  • New battery (if necessary)
  • New alternator (if necessary)
  • Replacement fuses (if any are blown)

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

4 items

Parts

3 items

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