My 2012 Octavia seems to have an internal light problem I think, before I make myself look silly by going to a dealer can anyone here confirm this is a fault?

 

I have had this car since new and only noticed this recently so I am sure it is a fault, when I open a door (or boot) the light only stays on for 10 seconds, I can't even manually turn on with the button.  This is after unlocking the doors, not after turning the ignition off.

 

I noticed this a few weeks ago, incidentally after it took 3 attempts to start the car in the morning, I gave it some gas the 3rd time and it was fine - never done this before or since.  I was thinking a battery or alternator problem, but I see no fault lights.

 

Any ideas?

 

1.4 TSI DSG

 

Thanks

Edited 2 December, 201411 yr by Mr Zippy

Yes, this is a battery saving system.

 

I too noticed this on my 2008 Octavia after cleaning the car. The doors were opened and closed regularly over a few hours.

 

By the end the interior lights would only stay on for approx. 5 seconds.

 

However since then the car has started and ran fine.

I would suggest low battery power. Low voltage is detected and lights will go off after a short period to protect from total loss of starting power. Recharge it with a suitable charger.

Edited 2 December, 201411 yr by fatzy

Thanks for replies.

Would this be a warranty issue as surely a less than 2 year old battery shouldn't need charging?

Car driven most days, minimum 2.5miles each way to work Monday to Friday.

Thanks again.

Yes, batteries are under warranty.

 

However only if they completely fail. It sounds as though your battery just needs charging.

 

Modern cars are power hungry and so the life of the battery is limited on how it is treated. All electrical load (lights, radio etc.) off before starting and stopping the engine will help.

 

Battery chargers are cheap enough now. If your daily commute isn't allowing for enough charge I'd consider buying one.