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Do you have electrical problems with your Volkswagen? Volkswagen cars are generally considered to be very reliable and have some of the best features. Still, like most cars on the road today, they are electronically driven, meaning that everything from the engine to the lights, radio, and dashboard is controlled by electricity. A wiring harness short is one of the most frequent issues that VW owners experience.
A wiring harness is an assembly of electrical cables used to connect various electrical parts in the vehicle. If there is a short circuit within a wiring harness, it may lead to flickering lights, non-functioning electronics, blowing fuses, or even failure of the car to start. The good news is that wiring harness shorts can be avoided if due care and attention are paid to the wiring harness.
Signs That Your VW Has a Wiring Harness Short
If fuses continue to blow regularly, then this is an indication that an electrical component is taking more current than it should because of a short circuit. The smell of burning plastic or electricity indicates burnt wires due to overheating or melting. If your car headlights or the other lights inside your car or dashboard flicker or dim, it might indicate wiring issues. A wiring short may lead to starting problems, loss of power while driving, or even inability to start the engine. If you experience any of these issues, switch off your VW and seek the services of a mechanic.
How to Prevent Wiring Harness Shorts in Your VW
- Check Your Wiring System Often: It is always advisable to check the wiring system often so that any problem is detected early. The first signs of a VW wiring harness failure are cracks in the insulation, exposed wires, and any signs of burning, which can be easily seen around the engine and the battery.
- Protect Wires from Moisture: Water is one of the biggest enemies of electrical components. Check for any signs of water intrusion into the vehicle and ensure that there are no points where water can reach the wiring harness. If you frequently park your car outdoors, inspect for signs of the formation of water droplets in the engine compartment and dashboard area.
- Prevent Rodents: Rodents nibbling on wires is a more shocking reason that contributes to wiring harness failure. To prevent them from getting to your vehicle, you should park in a clean environment with no traces of rodents. If you have any indication of rodents around, check your wiring for signs of damage at once.
- Don’t Take Chances With Aftermarket Accessories: When it comes to radios, extra lights, and many other accessories, it is wise to get them installed professionally. A professional will make sure that the parts used match your VW specifications and do not harm other components or the entire electrical system of the vehicle.
- Choose the Right Electrical Fuses: Fuses are important to protect the wiring from electrical overloads. When replacing a fuse, you should always use the right fuse rating for your Volkswagen. Having a fuse with the wrong amperage will lead to further electrical issues.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Professional inspection should be done at least once annually so that any wiring problems can be detected. Certified VW technicians are equipped with equipment that can help them identify hidden electrical issues that cannot be seen by the naked eye.
Our Experts At Protech Automotive Services Are Always Ready to Assist You With VW Wiring
At Protech Automotive Services, we 
are VW electrical experts, and we can help you avoid wiring harness shorts and other issues. Our highly skilled mechanics utilize state-of-the-art equipment to identify electrical problems, and they will fix the issue to ensure that the wiring of your Volkswagen is in good condition.
We are based in Johnston, RI, and provide services to clients from North Providence, Warwick, Cranston, Smithfield, Greenwich, and East. If you have any reason to believe that your VW has a wiring issue, you are advised not to wait for it to cause more problems. Call or text us today to book your VW’s electrical system maintenance and repairs!