VW Caddy Door Locks Dead: Failed Sensor Likely Culprit

Had the same issue on a 2012 VW Golf TSI. The central locking system completely failed, similar to your symptoms. The door sensor stopped sending contact signals to the control module. After inspection, the main problem was a damaged wiring harness near the door latch. The constant opening and closing had worn through the protective covering, causing intermittent connectivity issues. The repair involved replacing the complete door wiring harness and recalibrating the door sensor system. This is actually a serious issue since faulty door locks can leave your vehicle vulnerable. The repair requires partial door panel removal and precise rewiring work. A certified mechanic needs specialized diagnostic tools to properly identify which door sensor or wiring component has failed. In my case, the fix was permanent and no issues returned after 3 years. The gasoline engine type is not relevant to this electrical problem, it affects both fuel types equally. Would recommend getting it checked soon, as driving with malfunctioning door locks poses security risks.

Thanks for sharing your Golf experience. Reading your description perfectly matches my Caddy symptoms. I got the complete door latch assembly and wiring harness replaced last month on the driver side. The electrical issue turned out more complex than expected, both the door sensor and some connectors were corroded. Just wondering, do you remember roughly what you paid for the repair? My bill seemed quite high. Also curious if you encountered any other electrical problems since the fix? My passenger side door has started making odd clicking sounds recently.

Thanks for the follow up. Since getting my Golf fixed at the dealer, the faulty door contact signal never returned. The wiring harness repair was much simpler than yours, just a loose connection that needed proper reconnection and sealing. Total cost came to 95€ for parts and labor, which seems reasonable compared to your complete assembly replacement. The car alarm and central locking have worked flawlessly for over 3 years now. However, that clicking sound you mention from the passenger door could indicate another electrical issue developing. Often these problems can spread between vehicle doors if moisture gets into the system. Would recommend having those clicking noises checked soon before any wiring damage occurs. My mechanic mentioned these electrical connection problems are fairly common on VW models from that era. Getting them fixed early usually prevents more expensive repairs later. The diagnostic equipment they use now can pinpoint exactly which door components are starting to fail.

I finally took my Caddy to a different mechanic last week after reading about your experience. The clicking noise turned out to be early signs of another failing door sensor. The new shop found water damage had spread through the wiring harness to multiple doors, exactly like you warned might happen. The full repair included replacing both passenger side door sensors and part of the wiring harness. Total cost was 380€, but they also updated the automatic locks control module while everything was apart. The car alarm and all door locks now work perfectly again. Much better experience with this mechanic, they showed me the corroded parts and explained everything clearly. No more hesitation about taking the car there for future electrical issues. Really glad I caught this early before more extensive damage occurred.