Battery, Starter, Generator, Cruise Control

“2 Color” Visual Indicator, Checking

~2min read

WARNING Risk of injury. Follow all Warnings and Safety Precautions. Refer to → Chapter „Warnings and Safety Precautions“.

Visual Indicator General Information

The general introduction of the “2-color” display began as a running change in 2009. The color »green« for the state of charge was discontinued on the “2-color”.

The visual indicator shows the battery acid level.

It is no longer possible to read the battery state of charge using the visual indicator. It is necessary to perform a battery test. Refer to To obtain an accurate reading, gently tap the charge indicator with a screwdriver handle or rock vehicle slightly. By doing this, the air bubbles that occur normally during battery charging (even during vehicle operation) that adversely affect charge indicator reading will be displaced. Thereby, the color indicator of the visual indicator is more accurate. Note Air bubbles can especially form under visual indicator when a battery is charged, including when charged while driving. This will cause an incorrect display. The display is valid for only that one battery cell in which the visual indicator is located. An exact assessment of battery charge is only possible by performing a battery test. Refer to → Chapter „Battery Tester -VAS6161-“.

The visual indicator may be located on different locations on the battery.

Two Visual Indicators Are Possible:

»Black«, the electrolyte level is OK

»Bright yellow«, the electrolyte level is too low. The Battery must be replaced.
WARNING Do not check or charge batteries that have a visual indicator that is bright yellow. Jump starting must not be used!

There is a risk of explosion during testing, charging or jump starting.

These batteries must be replaced.

Test yourself

A quick Volkswagen Polo quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.