100% Free

No Scanner Needed

Carly logo

martinblitz1

VW Crafter EV Cruise Control Failure, Fix Tips Inside

Looking for help with my 2021 VW Crafter EV cruise control issues. The system completely stopped working and throws an error code. Already checked the obvious things like the pedal switch and basic fuse check. Has anyone experienced similar symptoms and got it fixed? Particularly interested in whether it could be related to the clock spring or speed sensor, as these seem to be common culprits in cruise control failures. Would be great to hear some real repair experiences before heading to the workshop, might save some diagnostic time.

4 comment(s)

julia_lehmann1

Having dealt with a similar issue on my 2019 VW e-Transporter, I can share some relevant experience. As someone with moderate experience in EV maintenance, this exact problem showed up after about 18 months of ownership. The cruise control failure initially had me checking the brake light and throttle position sensors too, but it turned out to be a fairly straightforward fix. The workshop discovered a loose connection in the wiring harness near the clock spring assembly. The dashboard light was showing an error code similar to what you describe. The repair involved checking and reseating several plug connections, with special attention to the steering wheel control module wiring. Total cost was 95€ for diagnosis and repair, which seems pretty standard for this type of work. Before suggesting more specific solutions, could you share: The exact error code showing up? Whether the cruise control stopped suddenly or gradually became unreliable? Are any other steering wheel controls affected? Does the brake light switch seem to be functioning normally? These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced or if it might be something different in the control system.

martinblitz1 (Author)

Just had my last service at 178000KM and can confirm getting the exact same symptoms shortly after. In my case, it wasnt the clock spring but rather a blown fuse in the secondary fuse box under the steering column. The pedal switch was also showing irregular readings due to a loose connector. The brake light would occasionally flicker when engaging cruise control, which was a clear indicator something was wrong with the electrical system. After replacing the fuse and securing the connector, everything went back to normal. Saved a lot of money by finding this before taking it to the workshop. Regarding your error code, would be helpful if you could share the exact number, as VW EVs typically have specific codes for cruise control related issues in the steering control module.

julia_lehmann1

Thanks for sharing those details about your repair experience. Interesting that you mentioned the secondary fuse box issue, as my 2019 e-Transporter actually showed similar symptoms with the brake light flickering before the cruise control stopped working completely. When the workshop ran diagnostics on my vehicle, they pulled error code P0571, which relates to the cruise control/brake switch circuit. The dashboard light was constantly illuminated, unlike your intermittent issue. They initially suspected the clock spring based on the error code, but further testing revealed damaged wiring near the steering wheel controls. The repair involved replacing a section of the wiring harness and recalibrating the cruise control system. This seems to be a known weak point in these models, especially when approaching higher mileage. The steering wheel buttons were also becoming less responsive before the complete failure, which was another indicator of wiring issues rather than just a blown fuse. Have you noticed any other electrical quirks since your repair? Its worth keeping an eye on the brake light and cruise control operation, as these initial symptoms can sometimes point to developing issues in the steering control module.

martinblitz1 (Author)

Thanks for those specifics on the P0571 code and repair details. Since fixing the fuse and pedal switch connector, the cruise control has been working flawlessly for about 3000km now. No flickering brake light or other electrical issues to report. The speed sensor readings are all normal in my diagnostic scans, and the steering wheel controls are responding perfectly. Definitely keeping an eye on the dashboard light and doing regular systems checks, but so far everything looks stable. The service manual actually mentions checking the wiring harness connections during routine maintenance, which makes sense given your experience with the damaged wiring. Good call on watching for early warning signs. Will specifically monitor the brake light behavior and steering control module readings during my next scheduled maintenance. The repair costs you mentioned at 95€ seem really reasonable compared to what the workshop quoted me for a full diagnostic session.

Join the discussion now: