VW Atlas AC Failure: Compressor Issues Strike Again

Had a similar auto AC repair situation with my 2021 VW Tiguan last summer. As someone with basic car maintenance experience, I first thought it was the AC compressor too, but it turned out the AC unit issues were stemming from a faulty control module. The symptoms matched exactly what you describe, no cold air, system not engaging, and warning lights. Initially tried basic troubleshooting like checking refrigerant levels, but the workshop diagnosed a completely defective AC control unit that needed replacement. Total repair cost was 980€, including parts and labor. The workshop had to order the specific control module, but once they had it, the fix took about 4 hours. Since the repair, the automotive cooling system has worked flawlessly. Before suggesting more specific solutions, could you share: Have you noticed any unusual sounds when trying to activate the AC? What error code is stored in the system? Did the problem start suddenly or develop gradually? Are you getting any airflow at all, just not cold? This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced or if you might be dealing with a different AC component failure.

Just had my 46156km service done last month, so this AC failure caught me off guard. After reading about your Tiguan experience, Im now wondering if its also electrical rather than mechanical. The refrigerant leak check at the dealership came back negative, suggesting the AC compressor might not be the root cause. No strange noises when pressing the AC button, just complete system shutdown. Error code reads P0645, AC clutch control circuit. Makes sense what you mentioned about the control module. Did your repair fall under warranty? Mine should still be covered since its a 2023, but Id like to know what to expect if its not. Looking back, there were actually some minor signs, occasionally the AC would take longer than usual to start cooling, but I didnt think much of it at the time. Really hoping its just the control unit like in your case and not a more complex air conditioning repair.

Sounds very similar to what led up to my Tiguan repair. Unfortunately my vehicle was just outside warranty when the HVAC control module failed. The dealership explained the P0645 error code indicates an electrical circuit issue in the vehicle HVAC system, which matched my symptoms exactly. The intermittent cooling delays you mentioned were actually the first warning signs I experienced too before the complete system failure. In both our cases, the fact that there are no mechanical noises but a total system shutdown points strongly toward an electrical rather than mechanical issue. Based on the service history, error code, and symptoms, especially that refrigerant check coming back clean, this really mirrors my control module situation. My cooling system repair involved replacing the module and recalibrating the air conditioning circuits. Since your Atlas is a 2023, this should definitely fall under warranty coverage. The automotive cooling system diagnosis and repair process was pretty straightforward once they identified the control module as the culprit. They verified proper communication between the module and compressor clutch before and after replacement to ensure no underlying issues remained. Would recommend documenting those intermittent cooling delays you noticed, as this helps establish the pattern when dealing with warranty claims.

Thanks for sharing those details about your Tiguan experience. The P0645 code definitely aligns with an electrical control issue rather than a mechanical problem. Really puts my mind at ease about the compressor situation. Ill gather my service records and document those intermittent cooling delays you mentioned. Based on what you described about your vehicle HVAC system repair, it seems my Atlas is showing identical symptoms. The complete shutdown without any mechanical noise really points to the control module. Since the air conditioning repair should be covered under warranty, Ill schedule an appointment with the dealership right away. Good to know the automotive cooling system fix was straightforward once they identified the actual problem. The fact that my refrigerant levels checked out also supports the electrical rather than mechanical theory. Appreciate you walking me through your experience, helped me understand what to expect and what to discuss with the service department. Will update once I get the official diagnosis and repair completed.