VW Bora Power Windows Failed, All Doors Affected

Last month I had a similar power windows failure on my VW Golf 1998. All windows stopped working simultaneously, which typically points to a central electrical issue rather than individual window regulators. The main culprit turned out to be the master power window switch in the driver door panel. When multiple windows fail at once, its often this central control unit rather than separate window motors or regulators. During automotive repair, the technician found corrosion inside the master switch assembly. The internal contacts were worn, preventing proper communication with the window motors. This is a common issue on VW models from that era. The fix required removing the door panel and replacing the complete switch unit. While the regulator motor in each door was tested and worked fine, the master control unit was the source of the system-wide failure. For a DIY approach, testing the master switch with a multimeter can confirm if this is your issue. However, accessing the wiring behind the door panel requires specific tools and expertise to avoid damaging the clips and electrical connections. Based on your symptoms and vehicle age, I strongly suspect your master switch rather than individual window mechanisms. This was not a serious repair in terms of safety or driving ability, but requires proper diagnosis to avoid unnecessarily replacing working components.

Thanks for sharing that detailed fix on the Golf. This actually sounds exactly like what happened with my Bora. The regulator motor and window mechanisms were all good, but that master switch was completely shot. Did you remember what the total repair cost was? My power windows issue turned into a bigger job because the technician found some damaged wiring while replacing the switch. Just curious if you had any other electrical gremlins pop up since the repair? Looking back, I probably could have saved some money doing it myself, but those door panels can be tricky to remove without breaking the clips.

After getting the master window control unit replaced, my car has been running perfectly with no electrical issues. The window mechanism works smoothly now in all doors. The repair bill came to 200€, which covered both parts and labor to fix the defective power window switch. Like your case, removing the door panel was the trickiest part of the job. The mechanic confirmed the window regulator itself was functioning correctly, it was just that worn out master switch causing all the trouble. Pretty common issue with these older VW models. Getting it done professionally was worth it. Those door panel clips and electrical connections need special handling, and the window control system is now working like new. No more fighting with stubborn switches or worrying about electrical gremlins.

I finally went ahead and got it fixed at my local garage last week. My power windows issue ended up costing 280€ total, bit more than expected because they found some corroded wiring while replacing the master window control switch. The automotive repair took about 3 hours. The mechanic showed me the old switch and you could clearly see the worn contacts inside. While they had the door panel off, they also cleaned and lubricated all the window regulators, which was a nice bonus. All four windows are working perfectly now. No more error codes and the switches feel much more responsive than before. Glad I got it done professionally, watching them work on those door panels confirmed I made the right choice not attempting it myself. Definitely worth getting the complete diagnosis rather than just assuming it was the window motors. Would have wasted money replacing parts that weren't actually broken.