I'm having to jump start after it sits for more than 5 hours. It will crank all day after jump starting until it sits over 5 hours or longer,also when driving at night my lights will dim and brighten just enough to barely notice it. Has new
battery. No noises that I can hear,
or leaks. We have had some wiring
issues with headlights and taillights. It looked as if the back tail light melted some plastic before we bought it.I had a rear bulb just look as if it exploded so e put a new pigtail on on.Is there an easy way to go through the cars wiring system to check for bad or old wiring and how to check the relays to know what maybe needs replaced, also the bright light dash light stays on if it's bright or dim. The lights button when I turn the switch on will make a weird thumping noise after I take key out but will stop when I turn the light button on, also can't get the fog lights on help I have dialysis 3 times a week this is my only car.
What makes this problem better or worse?
Nothing seems to make it better
How long has your 2003 Volkswagen Beetle had this problem?
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Hi - I am Dave, contributing to RepairPal and providing expert advice since 2010.
It would appears there exists an electrical system issue indeed. It could be as simple as a battery that is not robust enough to sustain a charge and crank when needed. So be sure to test your battery for state of charge and the ability to sustain a load first.
If the battery passes, you'll want to check for the existence of a parasitic draw - something that keeps current being drained while the vehicle is idle.
Your evidence and history of previous electrical issues lends more questions, such as - are there or were there aftermarket lamps installed? If they are not factory lamps, this can cause all kinds of electrical system issues due to different amperages needed for power for original equipment lamps versus aftermarket ones.
No - sadly, there is no test to check your electrical system for "bad or old wiring" - a physical inspection and check is needed and all that is possible. Again, it's important to isolate areas of aftermarket components versus original parts - this is an area where problems can manifest themselves
I'm especially concerned about the weird noise from the switch / button when taking out the key...and not getting the fog lights on. I suspect modifications and damage as a result.
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