Tiguan Seat Massage Malfunction, Electrical System Alert

The massage seat malfunction you describe matches what happened with my 2019 VW Arteon. The seat switch failure started similarly, complete loss of massage function and error messages. After inspection, it turned out the wiring harness connecting the massage control module had worked loose from constant seat movement. The issue also affected the lumbar support controls. While not a major mechanical problem, it required removing the entire automotive seats to access the connection points. The repair involved: Full diagnostic scan, Removal of seat assembly, Replacement of damaged wire connectors, Testing of all massage setting functions, Recalibration of seat memory positions This was a fairly common issue with that generation of VW massage seats. The fix requires specialized knowledge of the seat electronics, so going to a shop familiar with these systems is important. While time-consuming due to the need to disassemble the seat, it was not a serious mechanical issue affecting vehicle safety or operation. Make sure they check both the wiring and the massage control module itself, as switch failure can sometimes indicate a failing control unit rather than just loose connections.

Had similar electrical issues with my Tiguan last year, super frustrating when the luxury car features stop working! The seat switch and massage functions completely died just like yours. Since getting it fixed, no problems at all with the car upholstery or electrical systems. Did the dealership give you a repair quote yet? My fix was pricey at 780€ for parts and labor since they had to pull the whole seat out. Would be curious how much they quoted you and if theyve seen this issue often. Let me know if any other problems popped up during the diagnosis, sometimes these electrical issues can cascade into other switches failing.

Great news, just got back from the shop and the massage seat function is working perfectly again! The problem turned out to be much simpler and cheaper than expected at only 95€. Unlike your case, they found a faulty cable connection that was causing the switch failure, so no major parts replacement was needed. The technician mentioned this type of massage setting issue is fairly common in these models. They were able to fix it by reconnecting and securing the loose wiring without removing the entire automotive seats. The diagnostic scan confirmed it was just the connection point rather than a more complex electrical problem. No other issues were discovered during the repair, and all seat functions are now working as they should. The car upholstery remained intact since they accessed the connection through a service panel. Much better outcome than having to replace components or disassemble the whole seat assembly.

I finally went to get it checked today at a certified shop. Unlike the dealer who wanted to replace the entire massage chair system, this mechanic found the real problem in about an hour. Turned out the seat motor connection just needed cleaning and reconnecting, total bill was 120€ including diagnostics. Way better than my previous experience when the luxury car dealer wanted 900€ for a complete seat switch replacement. The massage setting works perfectly now. They even found and fixed a loose wire that was causing the seat memory positions to act up occasionally. The mechanic mentioned these electrical gremlins are pretty common in the newer models with advanced seat functions. Good call suggesting a specialized shop, they knew exactly where to look without tearing apart the whole seat assembly. Definitely keeping this shop in mind for future issues. The whole repair took just a morning, and they even did a courtesy check of other electrical systems while they had the diagnostic equipment hooked up.