How to replace battery in '05 Beetle TDI?

[Bio-Beetle]

I'm having a heck of a time trying to figure out how to replace this battery. I've searched and can only find threads relating to older models. Can anyone give me some advice/instructions on how to replace a battery in a 2005 TDI Beetle? Thanks

[Bio-Beetle]

I couldn't find a how-to on this specific model year (it's different than older models). Anyone know where a how-to on this could be located? Thanks

Shaun

[Deserion]

Remove the bolt that holds the power steering reservoir to the battery box. There should also be a bolt at the front of the battery . Possibly another one in there I'm missing. It's been a while since I did one. It's the same regardless of engine.

[Bio-Beetle]

Thanks for the reply.

The main problem I'm having is figuring out how to remove the plastic case around the battery. I know to unbolt the power steering reservoir, and I see the bolt at the bottom front of the battery but it's blocked by the plastic case, and it looks like it's designed to block it so you have to remove the plastic case in order to remove the battery. Thanks again for any help.

Shaun

[JEGSSR]

Originally Posted by Bio-Beetle

Thanks for the reply.

The main problem I'm having is figuring out how to remove the plastic case around the battery. I know to unbolt the power steering reservoir, and I see the bolt at the bottom front of the battery but it's blocked by the plastic case, and it looks like it's designed to block it so you have to remove the plastic case in order to remove the battery. Thanks again for any help.

Shaun

I've got the same problem. Apparently either no one at this site knows how, or no one who knows how has read the thread.

[Turbomania]

The top electrical components can be unsnapped and lifted up by just gently unsnapping the plastic tabs to gain access to the top of the battery. Disconnect the battery leads. There is a bolt that holds the battery box to the car located on the front outer bottom edge of this box. There are also a couple of plastic tabs that have to be disengaged and then you can pull up and out the left hand and front of the battery box only. Remove the battery hold down clamp bolt located in the middle bottom front of the battery box and remove the battery keeping the insulating jacket on the battery( if yours has one around it.) as you remove it. If you lift up on the left edge of the battery and pull the battery to the left and up it will slide out left top side first. You will have to tip the battery on it's side a little bit to get it out. It's a tight fit but it will come out. Make sure you get the correct battery for your TDI as a Diesel engine takes a larger capacity battery than a gas engined car. I use the Diesel spec battery in my 1.8 turbo. If you get too frustrated you can always take it to Sears and get it installed for about $30.00 or so. They also make a great battery with a great warranty. These directions are for my 99 but I think it has remained the same through out production. Good luck, JK

[JEGSSR]

Thanks, JK!