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melissabauer43

VW Caddy Central Locking System Complete Failure Fix

Having trouble with my 2018 VW Caddy (1.4 TSI, 101698km). The central locking system completely stopped working, cant lock or unlock any doors using the key fob or keyless entry. Already checked the car alarm and found an error code stored. Has anyone dealt with similar locking mechanism issues? Looking for repair experiences and rough cost estimates before heading to a mechanic since my last repair experience wasnt great.

4 comment(s)

helenaschmidt7

Had the same issue on my 2015 VW Golf 1.4 TSI. The remote locking system failed completely, leaving the keyless entry non-functional. After diagnostics, it turned out the wiring harness near the driver door had frayed, disrupting signals between the security system control module and door locks. The fix involved replacing the damaged wiring section and recalibrating the central locking system. This is a known weak point where cables flex frequently with door movement. While not a major mechanical issue, it requires proper diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the exact location of the connection fault. With similar symptoms to yours, including stored alarm codes, it points to either wiring damage or a failing door control module. These issues typically start with intermittent function before complete failure of the key fob operation. Worth checking if water has entered the door wiring, as this can accelerate corrosion of connections. The repair is relatively straightforward for an experienced technician with the right diagnostic tools. However, accessing the wiring harness requires careful door panel removal to avoid damaging other components.

melissabauer43 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. My Caddy had almost identical symptoms, totally dead central locking and key fob not responding. Would really help to know what you ended up paying for the repair. Did you get it done at a VW dealer or independent shop? Also curious if youve had any other electrical gremlins pop up since fixing the wiring harness issue. My fuse box looks fine but Im worried there might be more problems lurking.

helenaschmidt7

Thanks for asking about the repair costs. Just got my Caddy back from the shop last week, it was indeed a faulty cable connection in the door wiring that caused the central locking failure. The repair came to 95€, which included diagnosing and fixing the connection issue. Much better than expecting a complete key fob or security system replacement. The keyless entry and remote locking are working perfectly now. No other electrical issues have surfaced since the repair. While checking the system, the mechanic confirmed the fuse box was in good condition and all other door control modules were functioning normally. This type of wiring problem is fairly common in VWs due to the constant door movement. Getting it fixed early helps prevent more extensive damage to the central locking system. If you spot any new electrical quirks, best to address them quickly before they develop into bigger issues.

melissabauer43 (Author)

Thanks for the input. Finally got my Caddy fixed yesterday, turned out it was exactly the wiring issue mentioned. Found a well-reviewed independent shop that specializes in VW electrical systems. The mechanic actually showed me the frayed wiring in the door harness that was causing the central locking to fail. Total repair cost was 160€, bit more than expected but included a full diagnostic scan of the security system and cleaning of all door lock connections. The remote locking works perfectly now. They also found and fixed a loose connector in the fuse box while they were at it, no extra charge. Much better experience than my previous shop visits. The whole job took about 2 hours and they explained everything clearly. For anyone else facing similar issues, definitely worth getting it checked by someone who knows these electrical problems. Going to keep an eye on the door wiring now that I know its a common weak point.

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