Changing Engine Battery - Questions

[61 BUS]

I recently purchased a 2001 Eurovan GLS and want to change out the 4 year old battery before I get stranded out here in the Arizona heat. Per the owner's manual, when the battery is disconnected, several systems will be cleared and will need to be reset after the new battery is installed:

- All the data stored in the MFA (multi-function indicator) are erased. I don't think I have this function as I can't find any control or read-out so labeled.
- All the data in the auxiliary heater memory is erased. Would my GLS have an auxiliary heater, or would this be for an MV or camper?
- The factory radio locks up and will need to be re-enabled with a 4-digit code. I know how to do this.
- The digital clock will need to be reset. I know how to do this also.
- The one-touch window up-down function needs to be reset. There are instructions for this as well.

Are there any additional systems/functions that would lose programming with a battery disconnect that I need to be aware of? I've seen some threads in this forum about resetting the throttle position sensor (in italics below):

- Opened the van drivers side door (left it open, don't know if that matters)
- Key in ignition, turned to on/run, but didn't start or touch any pedals
- Sat for ~30-45 seconds thinking this was too stupid to work
- Turned van off, removed key, closed door, inserted key, started van, test drove, laughed about how that ridiculous procedure actually worked.

Anything else I should be aware of? Any help would be appreciated.
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61 Bus, 76 Beetle, 2001 Eurovan GLS, 2013 Fiat 500 Abarth, 47 Plymouth Business Coupe, 58 BMW Isetta 300

[SambaBurnsRed]

Just change it out.

The aux heater is mounted under the van behind the pass seat. Aux AC is in the rear 1/4 pass side.


I don't see why a TPS would need a reset.

[67rustavenger]

I had then battery disconnected on my 03 Weekender three weeks ago for about three hours while changing am fuel pump. Basically the same beast as your 01 GLS.


All I had to reset afterword was the radio clock, treble, base, sub-woofer.
Then I had to reset the dash mounted clock.
That's it.

The MAF didn't need resetting or any other engine gadgets nor door window settings.
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I have learned over the years.
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There's never enough time to do it right the first time. But there's always enough time to do it thrice.
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[kourt]

If you look at the Ross-Tech article on Throttle Body Alignment, it states that a TBA is recommended whenever the battery has been disconnected.

https://wiki.ross-tech.com/wiki/index.php/Throttle_Body_Alignment_(TBA)

However, that is a generalized article, not specific to the Eurovan. I looked in Erwin (VW's online/downloadable manual for 2000-2003 Eurovans) and couldn't find a service note on when to do TBA procedures.

Just change the battery and set the clock and move on. You're overthinking this.

kourt

[61 BUS]

Thanks guys!
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61 Bus, 76 Beetle, 2001 Eurovan GLS, 2013 Fiat 500 Abarth, 47 Plymouth Business Coupe, 58 BMW Isetta 300

[OB Bus]

We recently needed to replace the starting battery in our 2002 EVC. The best deal on price and warranty I found was at Home Depot. 3 year free replacement and it was not pro-rated.
I used to use Costco. Costco's warranties have gone from the best to mediocre. The last two batteries I returned at Costco did not go well. The attitude of the employees strongly implied that I was trying to cheat them. And that I had damaged the battery on purpose.
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Larry in OB
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69 Westfalia and 2002 Eurovan Camper.
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