VW Caddy Power Seat Failure: Motor Completely Dead

Had the same problem with my 2005 VW Touran 2.0 TDI. The electric seat stopped working completely after working fine for years. Initially thought it was just the seat motor, but diagnostic revealed a more complex issue. The problem turned out to be corroded wiring connections under the passenger seat, combined with a faulty seat control module. The automotive seat wiring had deteriorated where it connects to the car body ground point, causing intermittent power loss to the entire electric seat system. The repair involved: Replacing the seat wiring harness, Installing new control module for passenger seat, Cleaning all ground connection points, Testing all seat movement functions This was a serious repair requiring partial removal of the seat. Water had leaked through the floor and caused extensive corrosion damage to the seat wiring over time. The issue is fairly common in VW models from that era, especially if water drains get blocked. Taking preventive measures like checking drain holes and keeping the underside of electric seats dry can help avoid similar issues. Regular inspection of seat wiring connections is also recommended for early detection of corrosion.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Touran seat problem. Just had mine fixed at the shop and was wondering about your repair cost, as prices seem to vary quite a bit. My power seats are working perfectly now but I noticed some new rattling sounds coming from under the passenger seat during adjustment. Did you experience any follow-up issues with the seat motor or wiring after your repair was done?

Thanks for following up. After checking my old invoice, my passenger electric seat repair totaled 290€, which covered fixing a heavily discharged battery that was causing the power issues. This was actually much simpler than the wiring problems I initially suspected. Regarding the rattling noise you mentioned, I did experience similar sounds right after the repair. The automotive seat frame can make these noises if the mounting points arent properly tightened after working on the seat wiring. In my case, the noise went away after having the technician adjust the seat mount bolts. The seat motor and electrical components have been working flawlessly since the battery replacement. If your rattling persists, have the shop check the seat frame mounting, its usually a quick fix and should be covered under their initial repair work. Good to hear your electric seat functions are back to normal. These seat wiring issues can be tricky to diagnose, but once properly fixed, they typically dont cause further problems.

After putting it off for weeks, I finally took my Caddy to a different repair shop. The mechanic found that water damage had corroded the seat wiring harness, similar to what you described. Total repair came to 340€ including parts and labor. The passenger seat adjustment is working perfectly now. The mechanic was actually great at explaining the whole process. He showed me how the old wiring had completely deteriorated near the floor connection. They replaced the entire seat wiring harness and cleaned all contact points. But yes, I am getting that rattling noise during seat movement. Going to take it back next week to have them check the mounting bolts. They said it would be covered under the original repair warranty. Much better experience than with my previous mechanic. Glad I asked here first and knew what to expect. The power seats issue turned out to be exactly what you warned about with the water damage.