A Step-By-Step Guide To Removing The Battery Pan In Your Mk7 Gti

Replacing the battery in a Volkswagen MK7 GTI is a straightforward task that can be completed in a matter of minutes with the right tools. The battery is located in the engine bay and is held in place by a metal bracket and a single bolt. To replace the battery, simply remove the bracket and bolt, disconnect the battery terminals, lift out the old battery, and install the new one. It is important to note that the negative terminal should be closest to the firewall when installing the new battery. Additionally, if you are replacing the battery with one of a different size, you may need to take the car to a dealer for recoding to prevent issues with the charging rate.

Disconnect the terminals

Disconnecting the terminals is the first step in replacing the battery on an MQB platform Volkswagen/Audi. This includes the 2013-2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI. The battery is located in the engine bay. First, identify which battery post is negative. The negative post will have a minus sign near or on it and is the terminal closest to the firewall.

Loosen the pinch bolt that secures the end of the battery cable to the negative battery post with a 10mm wrench. Once removed, tuck the cable aside. Repeat this process with the positive side of the battery.

Now that the terminals are disconnected, you can remove the battery hold-down bracket and the battery itself.

Remove the hold-down bracket

Removing the hold-down bracket is a simple process. First, disconnect the terminals, starting with the negative one. Then, remove the bracket to the left of the battery. To reach the bolt, use a 13mm socket with an extension. Once the bolt is removed, pull the bracket out and set it aside. Now, the battery is free to be removed.

When putting in a new battery, ensure that you clean any areas with corrosion. Also, make sure to have the negative post closest to the firewall. Put the hold-down bracket over the foot of the new battery and secure it with the bolt. Finally, reconnect the battery cables, attaching the positive cable first.

It is important to note that if you are using a different battery size, you may need to do some recoding. Additionally, some people suggest putting some anti-corrosion gel on the terminals to keep them clean.

Take out the battery

Taking out the battery of your MK7 GTI is a simple task that can be done in a few steps. First, locate the battery in the engine bay and identify the negative battery post, which will have a minus sign near or on it and is the terminal closest to the firewall. Next, use a 10mm wrench to loosen the pinch bolt that secures the end of the battery cable to the negative post. Once removed, tuck the cable aside and repeat this process on the positive side of the battery.

Now, you will need to remove the battery hold-down bracket that clamps around the foot of the battery. Use a 13mm socket with an extension to reach the bolt holding the bracket in place, which is located just in front of the battery. After removing the bolt, pull the bracket out and set it aside. The battery is now free to be removed, but be cautious as it weighs close to thirty pounds. Use the strap on the top of the battery to pull it out.

At this point, you can install a new battery by following the previous steps in reverse. However, it is important to note that if you are replacing the battery with one of a different size, you may need to do some recoding to avoid issues with the charging rate. Additionally, if you are not comfortable with performing this task yourself, you can take your car to a shop like Advance or Auto Zone, or a dealership, to have them replace the battery for you.

Install the new battery

Installing a new battery in your MK7 GTI is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few simple steps. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the installation process:

Prepare the New Battery:

Before you begin, ensure that you have a suitable replacement battery for your MK7 GTI. The battery should match the specifications of the original battery, including voltage, amperage, and physical size. It is recommended to choose a battery with a recent manufacturing date to ensure optimal performance.

Disconnect the Old Battery:

Start by locating the battery in the engine bay and identifying the negative and positive battery terminals. The negative terminal will be indicated by a minus sign and will be closest to the firewall. Use a 10mm wrench to loosen the bolt securing the cable to the negative terminal. Once loosened, carefully tuck the cable aside. Repeat this process for the positive terminal.

Remove the Battery Hold-Down Bracket:

The battery is secured in place with a metal bracket and a single bolt. Use a 13mm socket with an extension to reach and remove the bolt. After removing the bolt, carefully pull out the bracket and set it aside.

Remove the Old Battery:

With the bracket removed, you can now take out the old battery. Use the strap on the top of the battery to lift it out gently, as it weighs close to thirty pounds. The battery's protective cover will likely come out with the battery.

Before placing the new battery into the car, clean any areas of corrosion using hot water and baking soda or a specific battery corrosion cleaner. Ensure that the negative terminal is positioned closest to the firewall, just like the previous battery. Place the hold-down bracket over the foot of the new battery and secure it with the bolt.

Reconnect the Battery Cables:

Reconnect the battery cables, starting with the positive cable and then the negative cable. Ensure that the connections are secure but avoid over-tightening.

Start the Vehicle and Reset Settings:

After installing the new battery, start the vehicle. You may need to clear any error codes or reset certain settings. Take a short drive to allow the control modules to re-establish connections with their sensors. Check and adjust the clock and tire pressure levels as needed.

By following these steps, you can successfully install a new battery in your MK7 GTI, ensuring your vehicle is fully charged and ready for the road.

Reset the control modules

Resetting the control modules is the final step in replacing the battery in an MQB platform Volkswagen/Audi. This includes the 2013-2020 Volkswagen Golf, among other models.

Step 1: Start the Vehicle

Once you've replaced the battery, start the vehicle.

Step 2: Clear the Error Codes

Since all of the control modules were without power, they need to be reset. To do this, take a drive around the block. This should be enough for the computers to re-establish a connection with their various sensors. You might need to manually set the tire pressure levels again.

Step 3: Check the Clock

Lastly, check the clock. If you need to make a change, select setup on your infotainment system. You will have the ability to change it in this menu.

Frequently asked questions