How to Reset the Computer in a B5 Passat

1. Turn off your Volkswagen B5 Passat.
2. Raise your Volkswagen B5 Passat's hood and locate the car's battery.
3. Wipe the battery's cables and terminals with a soft cloth to remove any corrosion and dirt. Wear latex gloves to keep your hands clean.
4. Use a wrench or socket set to disconnect both the positive and negative cables from the battery terminals.
5. Wait 15 seconds, then touch the ends of the positive and negative cables together for 10 seconds.
6. Reconnect the positive cable to the battery first then the negative cable.
7. Leave your driver's side car door open. Place the Volkswagen B5 Passat key in the ignition. Your driver's side car door needs to be open---the computer cannot be reset with the door closed or with the car running.
8. Turn the ignition to the 'On' position but do not start the car.
9. Leave the key in the 'On' position for 30 seconds.
10. Turn on your Volkswagen B5 Passat---the computer is now reset.