Where is the starter relay located in the Passat?
2 Answers
The starter relay of the Passat is located inside the engine control unit box under the hood, in front of the main driver's steering wheel. Open the box cover to see it. Some models label it as the No. 30 relay, while others call it the 473 relay. The labeling varies for different vehicle models. Below is an introduction to the functions of relays and contactors: 1. Function of contactor: Used to connect and disconnect larger current signals, driving power equipment such as motors. 2. Function of relay: Used for signal conversion, serving as an interface for control signals between devices of different voltage levels. Its contact capacity is generally smaller and is used to drive electrical components such as contactors.
Last time I replaced the starter relay on my old Passat myself, it was located in the fuse box under the steering wheel. You have to lie on the driver's seat carpet and look up – there's a plastic cover secured with clips. After opening it, you'll see a dense array of relays, and you'll need to consult the manual to find the right one – usually a black square box with numerical markings. In newer models, it might have been relocated to the fuse box on the right side of the engine bay. A reminder: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working, and use specialized tweezers to remove the relay. Pulling it directly by hand can easily break the clips. If you can't find it, check the circuit diagram in the owner's manual, or just take it to a repair shop, as this spot is deeply hidden and beginners might accidentally touch other fuses.
