VW Bora HVAC Failure After Regular Service Visit

Had a similar issue with my 2008 VW Golf 1.4 TSI. The symptoms matched exactly, climate control panel unresponsive and complete HVAC system failure. After thorough diagnosis, the root cause was traced to damaged electrical connectors behind the control panel. The wiring harness connecting the climate control unit had several corroded pins, causing intermittent power supply issues. This problem typically develops over time due to moisture and temperature cycles, not necessarily related to recent service work. The fix required removing the entire center console to access the connections. The technician found three damaged pins and evidence of water ingress affecting the main control panel connector. Rather than just replacing the panel, the complete wiring harness section needed replacement to ensure reliable operation. This was a significant repair requiring specialized diagnostic equipment to properly test the electrical system. The complexity came from having to partially disassemble the dashboard to access and replace the damaged components. The repair resolved all HVAC functions, proper heating, AC operation, and full control panel functionality. Would recommend having a proper electrical system diagnosis done, focusing on the connections between the control panel and the main wiring harness.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the wiring harness issue. It sounds exactly like what I might be dealing with, especially the part about the climate control panel being completely dead. Did all the electronic faults clear up after the repair? I am curious about the repair cost since I should probably start budgeting for this. Also wondering if you have had any recurring issues with the blower motor or control panel since getting it fixed?

Good news on my Golf repair, the fix was much simpler and cheaper than initially expected. The mechanic found a loose connection in the electrical connectors feeding the climate control panel. Total cost was 95€ for reconnecting and securing the wiring properly. Since the repair, all the electronic issues cleared up completely. The blower motor responds perfectly to all settings, and the air conditioning works exactly as it should. The climate control panel lights up properly and maintains accurate temperature control. The wiring harness itself was actually in good condition, just the connector had worked itself loose over time. Much better outcome than having to replace the entire assembly like we first thought might be needed. No recurring problems in the months since the fix, everything in the HVAC system has been working reliably. The diagnostic scan showed all error codes cleared and they have not returned. Looking at your symptoms, it sounds very similar. Might be worth having them check the connections first before assuming worst-case scenarios with more expensive components.

Just got back from the mechanic regarding my AC and heating problems. Turns out it was exactly what others suggested, a faulty connection in the wiring harness near the temperature sensor. The blower motor and power supply were fine, just the electrical connectors had come loose during the previous service. Total repair cost was 120€, mainly labor for accessing and fixing the connections. The mechanic showed me where the wiring had been disturbed, likely when they were doing other work last month. They admitted it was probably their oversight and reduced the labor charge. All systems are now working perfectly, climate control panel responds, heating works great, and AC blows cold. Really glad I asked here first instead of assuming the worst. Saved me from unnecessarily replacing expensive parts. Will definitely keep an eye on the HVAC system, but the mechanic assured me the repair should last. Much better outcome than I initially feared.