VW Crafter ECU Lock Causes Performance Drop

Had a similar issue with my 2013 VW Transporter diesel. Based on some experience working with automotive diagnostics, the symptoms you describe match what I encountered, multiple fault codes and inability to clear the memory lock. The root cause in my case was undervoltage in the vehicle electrical system, which triggered the control unit to enter a protective state. The workshop conducted a full diagnostic scan and found the battery voltage was dropping below critical levels, causing the ECU to lock up as a safeguard. The repair involved: Complete electronic system diagnosis, Testing the charging system, Resetting the control unit after voltage stabilization, Clearing fault codes once the lock was removed Total cost was 240€ for diagnostics and repair work. To better assist with your specific case, could you share: Current battery age and condition, Any recent electrical work or modifications, Whether check engine light is constant or flickering, Specific fault codes stored in the system Proper automotive diagnostics are crucial here, as similar symptoms can have different root causes depending on the vehicle configuration and history. The car electronics need to be functioning properly before attempting to clear any fault codes, otherwise the memory lock will likely reactivate.

Last service done at 112000KM. Thanks for the detailed response. Running a full scan revealed additional fault codes related to low voltage events. Our battery tested at only 11.8V while running, so this aligns with your experience. The check engine light stays constantly on rather than flickering. The error memory also shows P0605 which points to an ECU module issue. Would replacing just the battery be enough or should we anticipate needing control unit work as well? The active memory lock persists even with a temporary battery boost. The auto repair shop quoted 650€ just for initial computer system diagnostics which seems excessive compared to your repair costs. Maybe worth getting a second opinion before proceeding?

Thanks for those additional details, that 11.8V reading definitely points to electrical system issues, just like in my case. The P0605 fault code alongside the voltage problems is a red flag I also encountered with my Transporter. In my situation, we initially thought a battery replacement would fix it, but the control unit had already sustained some damage from the prolonged undervoltage. The automotive diagnostics revealed the ECU needed recalibration even after installing a new battery. That 650€ quote seems steep compared to standard diagnostic rates. My complete repair ended up including: New battery: 180€, Control unit recalibration: 160€, System diagnostics: 120€ Total was around 460€, still less than just the diagnostic fee youve been quoted. A second opinion would be wise, especially from a shop experienced with VW computer system repairs. The fault memory lock in these vehicles often requires proper ECU fault resolution beyond just component replacement. Look for a workshop that specializes in automotive electronics rather than a general service center.

Really appreciate the cost breakdown and repair details. Just called another VW specialist who quoted 450€ for full diagnostics and likely repair, which matches your experience much better. They mentioned the fault memory lock and multiple codes could indeed be from battery-induced ECU damage, similar to your case. Made an appointment for tomorrow. They will start with a complete charging system test and control unit diagnosis. If the computer system needs recalibration after battery replacement, at least I know this is a common repair path for this issue. Will update once I know if the ECU fault requires just battery replacement or if the control unit needs work too. Main thing is finding someone who understands these electrical system problems rather than paying inflated diagnostic fees. Thanks again for sharing the specific repair steps and costs from your similar experience. Helped me avoid potentially overpaying for this fix.