My MK2 polo Fox(1043) with the standard Dashboard(no rev counter/clock and trip) has an intermittent fault with the Alternator warning light not illuminating when the ignition is switched on.

 

Giving the top of the dash a thump brings it back on, so that tells me it’s not an alternator fault.

 

is this a common fault and is it fixable?

 

I’m good with a soldering iron if it’s likely to be dry joints.The worry is that without the warning light lit to start with the battery won’t charge, as I believe it needs the lamp lit to ‘excite’ the alternator into action.

Any help/guidance appreciated

not common...id start by pulling the cluster , make sure the multiplug is clean and tight , maybe a smear of dielectric grease on the pins 

 

check over the blue foil for damage 

1 hour ago, steveo3002 said:

not common...id start by pulling the cluster , make sure the multiplug is clean and tight , maybe a smear of dielectric grease on the pins 

 

check over the blue foil for damage 

Is it steering wheel off to get the pod out?
 

just so I know before I start destroying things😀

Edited 6 April, 20215 yr by mk2tastic

think so yes...cdrtainly much easier with it off...24mm nut btw