VW Amarok Key + Antenna Issues: Starting & Lock Failures

Had the same issue on my 2010 VW Touareg TDI. The signal interference between the key fob and vehicle antenna caused similar symptoms, central locking failure and key-required starts. The problem originated from a damaged antenna mount in the front bumper area. The connector pins were corroded and the wiring harness had slight damage from water exposure. These components control both the keyless entry and engine immobilizer systems. The repair required: Complete vehicle antenna replacement, New wiring harness section, Reprogramming of the key fob signals This was a serious electrical system issue that took about 6 hours to diagnose and fix properly. The car radio also had reception problems as a secondary symptom, which cleared up after the repair. For the Amarok, the antenna system is similar but mounted in a slightly different location. Would strongly recommend having the error code properly diagnosed first, as it could point directly to the faulty component in the antenna circuit. The repair needs specialized diagnostic equipment to reset the immobilizer system after component replacement.

Thanks for the detailed info about your Touareg antenna repair experience. Its really helpful since Im starting to think my Amarok has similar antenna issues. The symptoms match exactly, especially the central locking and starting problems. Would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was for your fm antenna replacement and rewiring? Also curious if youve had any recurring problems with the automotive antenna system since the fix? Just want to get an idea of what Im looking at cost-wise and if its a lasting repair when done properly. My local shop quoted quite high for the vehicle antenna work but Im not sure if thats normal for this type of repair. Would help to know what others paid for similar fixes.

After getting my automotive antenna repair done, the total came to 95€ for fixing the cable and plug connection. My shop found a faulty connector was causing the radio signal issues, much simpler than the complete antenna replacement they initially quoted. Since the antenna repair, everything has worked perfectly, no more central locking problems or issues starting the engine. The repair shop correctly diagnosed it as a basic connection problem rather than needing a whole new antenna mount assembly. For your Amarok, I suggest having them specifically check the antenna connections first. A full antenna replacement might not be necessary if its just a wiring or connector issue like mine was. The 95€ I paid included diagnostic time and parts, which seems reasonable compared to the much higher quotes for complete antenna replacement work. Its been 8 months since the fix with zero recurring problems. The radio reception is crystal clear now too, which was an unexpected bonus after they repaired the antenna system.

I took my Amarok to a different mechanic last week based on your advice. Turns out you were right, it was mainly a connection issue with the vehicle antenna system rather than needing a complete replacement. The new shop found corroded pins in the antenna mount and some water damage to the wiring. Total repair cost came to 120€ which included fixing the connections, replacing a small section of damaged wire, and reprogramming the system. Much better than the 400€ quote I got from the first shop for a full fm antenna replacement. Car is working perfectly now, central locking responds every time and the engine starts without needing the key in the ignition. Even noticed the car radio reception is much clearer than before. Really glad I got a second opinion instead of going for the expensive repair initially suggested. Thanks again for sharing your experience. Saved me both time and money by pointing me in the right direction with the antenna diagnostics.