Oct 20, 2022

Your car’s electrical system consists of a battery, a starter, and an alternator and powers the ignition system, components, and accessories. If one of these parts malfunctions or breaks, you’ll experience a whole lot of car issues. Below are five signs from your VW dealer that your Volkswagen Jetta, Golf, or Atlas is having electrical problems.

5 Signs From Your VW Dealer That Your VW Is Having Electrical Problems

1. Dim Headlights

One of the first signs of an electrical issue is dim headlights. Your battery powers your headlights, and when your battery is weak, your headlights will seem dimmer than usual, go from bright to dim when you accelerate, or flicker on and off. You’ll also notice that your dashboard lights are not as bright as they used to be.

2. Battery Trouble

The battery is the heart of your car’s electrical system, and a weak battery near the end of its life will cause an array of vehicle issues. There won’t be sufficient power to charge the engine, and suddenly all the electronics will start acting up. You’ll have problems with your power windows and locks, the windshield wipers and heated seats, and some of your car’s accessories might not work at all.

3. Cranking Issues

Your battery is not the only thing that starts your car. The starter and the alternator are also part of the electrical system. If either of these components fails or breaks, your engine won’t crank when you turn the key in the ignition. If there’s a problem with the starter, you’ll hear a clicking sound, and when the alternator malfunctions, you’ll hear a whirring sound.

4. Blown Fuses

Blown fuses will usually cause a minor electrical issue. Your interior lights or radio will suddenly stop working, some climate control features will not function properly, or your horn won’t honk. A malfunctioning alternator that’s overloading the circuits will blow a fuse. If you have hassles with blown fuses and continuously replacing them, there’s a problem with the electrics, and it’s best to ask your Volkswagen technician to repair the issue.

5. Burning Odor

Your car’s electrical system is a maze of wiring that runs through your vehicle. Smelling burning plastic insulation is a serious problem that will get worse and could cause severe damage. The odor could come from an overheated wire. It’s best not to take unnecessary risks and schedule an appointment with your Volkswagen technician as soon as possible for repairs.

If your headlights are dim or flicker, you struggle with your car’s electronics, or it’s hard to start your vehicle, don’t stress. Stop at Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville today, and our qualified Volkswagen technicians will quickly and effectively sort out your car’s electrical issues and get you back on the road in no time at all.