Volkswagen Beetle 1960-1986: Possible battery problems (Electrical equipment / Power devices)

Malfunction	Cause	Remedy
Too low electrolyte level	Battery overcharging or electrolyte evaporation (especially in summer)	Top up with distilled water to the correct level
Electrolyte seeps through plugs	Charging voltage too high	Check voltage regulator, replace if necessary
Electrolyte seeps through plugs	High electrolyte level	Pump out excess electrolyte
Electrolyte density too low	Low battery	Charge the battery
	Faulty generator	Check alternator, repair or replace if necessary
	Short circuit in wiring	Check wiring contacts
	Electrolyte contains excess water due to improper battery maintenance	Adjust the acid content to normal
Electrolyte density too high	Excess acid	Adjust the acid content to normal
Low battery power output, voltage drops	Low battery	Charge the battery
	Charging voltage too low	Check voltage regulator, replace if necessary
	Poorly fixed or oxidized terminals on the battery terminals	Check connection with "weight", if necessary, tighten or replace the terminals
	Bad contact with "weight" between battery, engine and body	Check contact with "weight", if necessary, restore it and tighten the threaded connections
	Excessive battery self-discharge due to electrolyte contamination	Replace battery
	Battery sulfation (dirty white deposits on the plates)	Charge the battery with low current to break down deposits. If the power output remains low after repeated charging and discharging, replace the battery
	The battery has expired or the active mass of the plates has been exhausted	Replace battery
Insufficient battery charging	Faulty alternator, voltage regulator or damaged connecting wires	Check alternator and voltage regulator, replace or repair if necessary. Check the condition and fastening of the wires
	Weak alternator drive belt tension	Tension or replace the belt
	Too many consumers connected	Install a larger battery or a more powerful alternator
Permanent recharge of the battery	Faulty voltage regulator or alternator	Replace voltage regulator or check alternator

Possible battery problems

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