Greg66

Any estimates for the battery life/alternator life?

My car is 4 1/2 years old, and we do a *lot* of short trips in the city centre. I've got to the stage where the battery goes flat after about an hour of standing. Once I get a jump start and start driving, it *seems* to be charging (things like the wipers run at normal speed - I had a car once with alternator trouble where the wipers would drop to 1/4 speed as the alternator cut in and out).

Anyone had to replace their battery around this sort of time?

TIA

Reggie

Batteries only last 3 years typical - you got lucky - I replaced mine at 4 years just to be safe

sidct

I have 99 A8 with original battery that is still going strong. You should check the electrolyte level and add distilled water to cover the plates. I usually end up adding nearly a litre every two years or so. You can have the battery load tested after a full charge, and replace it if it is not within specs.

khoop

Yesterday, I replaced the battery in my 1998 A8 that I just bought used. It was the original battery, so I guess that makes it 6 years.

I tried to buy an aftermarket battery at the local auto parts store, but the mounting bracket wouldn't fit to secure it. Not being handy at all, I relented, and went to the local VW dealership and payed a whopping $152 for the battery.

Ouch!

- kent