VW Bora AC Dead: No Compressor Engagement Reported

I experienced a similar A/C system failure in my 2006 VW Golf with the 2.0L gasoline engine. The symptoms matched exactly, no response when pressing the A/C button and no compressor engagement. The root cause was a combination of issues with the HVAC system. The main problem turned out to be undervoltage in the control module, which prevented the compressor clutch from engaging. This required replacing both the pressure sensor and belt tensioner assembly. During diagnosis, they found that the low pressure switch had failed, which is a common issue on these VW models. When these switches fail, the system disables the compressor as a safety measure to prevent damage. This was not a simple DIY fix as it required specialized diagnostic equipment to properly test the control module and reset the system. The repair took about 4 hours at the shop and was fairly serious since it involved multiple components of the air conditioning system. The mechanic also recommended a full system inspection and refrigerant check to prevent future issues, as these problems often cascade when left unaddressed. Given the age of your Bora, these components are likely reaching their end of life, similar to what happened with my Golf.

Thanks for the detailed insight on the AC repair. My VW had similar symptoms last summer, no response from the AC button and a system error. The shop found a bad AC relay and pressure switch combo that was preventing the compressor from engaging. Would you mind sharing what your total repair costs were? Just wondering how it compares. Also curious if youve had any AC problems since getting it fixed, since Im still a bit nervous about potential issues popping up down the road with these older VWs.

The A/C system repair on my Golf was completed last month and cost 240€ total, which covered diagnosing and fixing the undervoltage issue affecting the compressor engagement. The repair has worked perfectly since then, the compressor kicks in immediately when pressing the A/C button and the cooling performance is back to normal. A proper fix of the relay switch and pressure sensor setup was essential, as these components work together to protect the compressor. The mechanic explained that the undervoltage problem was causing the safety systems to prevent compressor operation. Once corrected, the refrigerant levels were also checked to ensure no leaks were present. Since the repair, the air conditioning has been reliable with no error codes or engagement issues. Getting the electrical system properly diagnosed was key, rather than just replacing parts hoping to fix the problem. These VWs typically run well once the root cause is properly addressed rather than having recurring A/C failures.

I took it to a local shop last week for the AC repair after getting your advice. The diagnosis confirmed similar issues, bad relay and pressure sensor preventing compressor engagement. Total cost came to 280€ including parts and labor. Not cheap but less than I feared. The mechanic showed me the worn AC relay that was causing the no-response issue with the button. They also found the pressure sensor was sending incorrect readings to the system. After replacing both components and checking the refrigerant level, the air conditioning is working perfectly again. It has been 8 days since the repair and no problems so far. The compressor engages right away and cold air blows strong. Feels good having it fixed properly instead of trying cheaper temporary solutions that might have caused more damage. Thanks for helping me understand what to expect with the repair.