VW Caddy Radar Failures Disrupt Driver Assist Systems

Had similar sensor malfunction issues on my 2005 VW Golf with the 1.6L gasoline engine. The adaptive cruise control and front assist systems started failing, showing multiple error codes. The root cause turned out to be a dirty front radar sensor behind the VW badge. Road grime and salt had accumulated, interfering with the sensor signals. While this sounds simple, proper radar calibration was required after cleaning to restore full functionality. The repair process involved: Removing front bumper cover, Professional cleaning of sensor unit, Electronic system diagnostic scan, Radar calibration using specialized equipment, Testing all affected assistance systems This was not a major mechanical issue but required specific expertise and equipment. A standard garage without proper calibration tools cannot properly complete this repair. The sensor malfunction symptoms matched yours, multiple warnings and disabled assistance features. Most important is finding a shop with the correct diagnostic equipment and calibration capabilities. Regular cleaning of the sensor area can help prevent similar issues. The repair resolved all electronic issues and warning messages permanently.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I had almost identical collision avoidance system problems with my 2004 VW Caddy. The safety systems kept failing and showing those annoying warning lights. My repair matched yours exactly, cleaning and recalibrating the automotive sensors fixed everything. Did you remember how much the whole repair ended up costing? And has everything stayed working properly since the fix? Just want to compare costs since these specialized sensor repairs can vary quite a bit in price.

Having the sensor cleaned and calibrated cost me 45€ total at the shop. That covered both the professional cleaning service and full calibration of the safety systems. Everything has worked perfectly since getting it fixed a few months ago. My collision avoidance system and all other driving assistance features are now functioning as they should. No more sensor failure warnings or system errors popping up. Looking back, the radar sensor being dirty was such a simple root cause, but the professional calibration was crucial for restoring proper operation. Just make sure you find a repair shop with the right diagnostic equipment to properly test and calibrate the sensor systems after cleaning. Regular maintenance of the sensor area will help prevent these issues from recurring.

Just had my VW Caddy fixed last week. Found a certified shop specializing in radar calibration, what a difference from my previous mechanic. The technician immediately identified the radar sensor issue and showed me how road debris had built up around it. Total repair came to 380€, which covered: Complete sensor cleaning, System diagnostics, Professional radar calibration, Testing all safety systems More expensive than expected but worth it since all warning lights are gone and driving assistance features work perfectly again. The safety systems respond smoothly now, no more unusual alerts or malfunctions. Much better experience than my last repair attempt where they just cleared the codes without fixing the actual sensor failure. Glad I asked here and found a proper solution. Will definitely keep the sensor area cleaner to prevent future issues.