About Robert Greenfield Expertise I can answer any question pertaining to B5 model Passats short of automatic transmission rebuilds. I may be able to field some questions about other late model VWs with crossover engines. I do not address performance modification questions.
Experience I have been doing all my own work on my two Passats for a decade. I have been giving sound repair advice on PassatWorld.com for the past few years.
Education/Credentials No relevant auto related degrees unless a BSME counts.
Expert: Robert Greenfield Date: 1/2/2008 Subject: 2001 passt 1.8 turbo
Question can i replace the battery myself or does the dealer have to do it someone told me if i disconnect the battery the card will have to be "recoded" and will not start
Answer The radio will reset itself to "safe" mode. If you don't have the 4 number code, it will return to normal in 24 hours. The throttle body may lose adaptation and the engine will start hard until it readapts. To avoid this, there are devices you attach to the battery terminals to keep voltage while the battery is out. Any place that sells and installs batteries (like Interstate or Sears) should have one. The battery heavy and hard to pull out. For the $15 install fee, I'd let someone else get a hernia.
