VW Bora Cruise Control Failure, Common Fix Guide

Having dealt with a similar cruise control malfunction on my VW Golf from 2004, I can share my experience as someone with moderate experience working on VWs. The symptoms were nearly identical, non-functional cruise control and error codes. After taking it to the workshop, they found the issue was related to loose cable connections at the throttle body unit that controls the cruise function. The mechanic discovered corroded plug connections which caused intermittent signal problems. The repair involved cleaning the connections and replacing a damaged wiring harness section. Total repair cost was 95€ including parts and labor. Not a complex fix for an experienced mechanic, but definitely needed proper diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the exact issue. To help troubleshoot your specific case, could you share: Current mileage on your Bora, Exact error codes from the diagnostic scan, Whether the issue appeared suddenly or developed gradually, If other electronic functions are affected This information would help determine if your issue is similar to what I encountered or potentially something different in the cruise control system.

Last service was done at 60394km and the fault appeared shortly after. According to the scan results I got error code P1571 which refers to the cruise control actuator. The cruise control system stopped working suddenly while driving on a main road. When activating the controls on the steering wheel, nothing happens at all. Based on the workshop estimate of 450€ for replacing the complete throttle body assembly, I am trying to determine if this quote seems reasonable or if there might be a simpler solution to fix the faulty system.

Thanks for providing those details. I dealt with error code P1571 on my Golf as well, and while my initial issue was resolved with cleaning connections, it later came back and turned out to be more complex. The steering wheel controls being completely unresponsive points to a more serious malfunction than just dirty connections. In my case, the second time this happened, it was indeed the throttle body assembly that needed replacement. The 450€ quote actually sounds reasonable since: The part itself usually costs around 300€, Labor involves removing several components to access it, Proper diagnostics and system coding is required after installation While checking connections and wiring harnesses is always worth trying first, when the cruise control stops working suddenly with that specific error code, it typically indicates internal failure of the throttle body unit. After I got the replacement done, the system has worked flawlessly for over 40000km now. Just ensure the workshop uses OEM parts for the repair, as aftermarket throttle bodies can sometimes cause compatibility issues with the original control modules. Would definitely recommend getting this fixed properly rather than looking for temporary solutions, since a faulty throttle body can potentially affect other engine management functions beyond just the cruise control system.

Thank you for all the helpful information shared. After hearing about similar experiences, I have decided to proceed with the throttle body replacement at my regular workshop. The 450€ quote seems fair considering the parts cost and labor involved. The sudden failure and complete non-response from the cruise control, combined with error code P1571, makes me confident this is indeed a failed throttle body rather than just a wiring issue. I will make sure they use OEM parts to avoid any compatibility problems with the car electronics system. I have booked the repair for next week and will first have them check the fuse box and connections, just to be thorough, before proceeding with the full replacement if needed. Better to address this properly now before it potentially affects other engine management functions. Good to hear your repair has held up well over significant mileage. That gives me confidence this should provide a lasting fix for my cruise control malfunction as well.