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We are looking for some technical advice about the car batteries in our 2014 VW Golf and 2017 VW Tiguan. Our cars will not be driven for about 7 weeks. Is that an issue for our cars - especially the batteries?
Our son has a "Smart Charge" battery charger (bought from AA) and we could use that, if you recommend so. If we do, what setting should we use: Gel, AGM, Wet, or Calcium?
Do we need to take any other precautions?
Many thanks in advance!
Our smart chargers are the best option. These chargers will trickle charge and maintain the batteries at fully charged state.
Connect each vehicle to a charger. Smart Chargers turn off when the battery is fully charged.
The setting.
Check your battery in the 2017 vehicle it should have an EFB in this case you will set it to Calcium
The Golf can come with four different battery type depending on the vehicle's variant. (eg Petrol TSI Cabriolet – 5536 ,3664 , 3554)
If EFB – go Calcium, and of course if AGM you will go AGM.
If you are still unsure of what battery is fitted, particularly in the older golf call into your local AA Service and repair shop to check the battery and advise you further.
Thanks for your follow-up Ian - much appreciated!
I have now confirmed that both cars have EFB batteries.
Just one more question please (and excuse my ignorance):
What is your reason for recommending "Calcium" rather than "Wet"?
Thanks in advance!
EFB batteries are Flooded Calcium Batteries. The difference is they have better tolerance to deep cycling and are more receptive rapid charge acceptance than conventional Calcium batteries.
Thanks again Ian. That's great to know. Just out of curiosity: it obviously doesn't apply to me, but when would you use the "Wet" setting?
Older vehicles may have lead acid batteries which will require the wet setting, but its unlikely you will see them in the kinds of vehicles you are driving in,
Thank you very much Ian for all your advice - and for your patience!