Charging van (starter) battery when on hookup

Cavilln · Jun 11, 2016

Apologies if this has been answered before but I couldn't find the answer through a search.

As everyone knows (sometimes through unfortunate accidental discovery) the van starter battery does not charge when on hookup (in a pre-facelift Cali; I think VW later fixed this). This is unfortunate as the radio runs off this battery so a week of chilling and listening to music can leave you unable to start the engine to leave.

I have been told there is a gadget to plug into one of the sockets by the side of the sink (when on hookup as they don't work otherwise) and then charge the van starter battery via the cigarette lighter.

any clues?

Thanks

Nick
2005 cali SE (pre facelift)

WelshGas · Jun 11, 2016

http://www.theultimatefinish.co.uk/ctek/cigarette-lighter-adapter-xs800-xs3600-and-xs7000.aspx

Adapter lead then choose your Charger. Socket must be live when ignition is Off.

Cavilln · Jun 11, 2016

Thanks. A friend just showed me the same item so great minds think alike!

But he also said an option is to carry a portable battery booster instead - obviously not to charge the battery when on hook up but more as an emergency in case the starter battery fails.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00YDZR3ZI/?tag=eliteelect-21

is this a good idea do you think?

WelshGas · Jun 11, 2016

Mmmmm. Many similar items don't have a good write-up. You'll never know until you need it.

I think the charger might be better all round.

MattBW · Jun 13, 2016

I have a battery charger than can be plugged into the mains and then into the cup holder 12v socket to charge the vehicle battery. I've never had to use on the cali it camping but have used it on the drive when the batteries needed a boost.

Edit: May not be wise to use a charger this way as per post below. Needs researching.

Sp0_0k · Jun 13, 2016

Though manual says not to put any voltage into cig-light sockets.
There was info that hookup might charge main battery. Checked voltage, it doesn't.

2into1 · Jun 13, 2016

Although having a battery charger on board for the main battery could come in handy, many find it easier to use a separate device for music. (iPhone plus Bluetooth speaker etc), kept charged from the leisure side.