norbertbeck1
VW Eos GPS Signal Loss: Common Antenna Repair Guide
4 comment(s)
norbertbeck1 (Author)
Thanks for sharing your experience. My GPS signal completely fails, no intermittent function at all. The headliner shows no water spots and no other electronics are affected. The error code is B138A, GPS antenna circuit malfunction. Last service was at 68000km just 2 months ago, and nothing was noted about the car navigation system then. Worth mentioning that satellite connection worked perfectly until it suddenly stopped 3 days ago. I will likely follow your suggestion and have the GPS module checked for water damage. Good to know the fix was straightforward in your case with a complete antenna replacement.
rudolfwalter1
Based on your error code B138A and the symptoms you describe, this definitely sounds identical to what I experienced. The sudden complete failure without any warning signs is typical for these GPS antenna units in our VW models. The fact that there are no water spots and no other affected car electronics actually makes the diagnosis more certain. In my case, and in several other cases I have seen in these models, the GPS antenna fails as a single unit rather than as part of a larger electrical problem. Since your vehicle service history shows recent inspection without any noted issues, and the satellite connection worked perfectly until the sudden failure, this matches the failure pattern I experienced. The GPS module tends to work perfectly until it completely stops, there is rarely a gradual deterioration. However, before proceeding with a full antenna replacement, have the workshop verify the connection between the GPS antenna and the head unit. While my issue required a complete replacement, occasionally the problem can be traced to a loose connection at the antenna base, which would be a much simpler fix. The repair should be relatively straightforward for any workshop familiar with vehicle GPS systems. Just make sure they test the satellite connection thoroughly after the repair to confirm proper signal strength.
norbertbeck1 (Author)
I appreciate the detailed insights about the GPS antenna issue. After hearing about the similar problem with your VW Golf, I feel more confident about what I'm dealing with. The symptoms you describe match my situation perfectly, especially the sudden complete failure of the satellite connection. The lack of water spots and other electrical issues in my case does suggest a standalone GPS antenna failure, just as you experienced. I will definitely have the workshop check both the antenna unit and its connections to the head unit, though from what you describe, I should be prepared for a complete unit replacement. Since my car navigation system worked flawlessly until 3 days ago, and considering the matching error code B138A, I expect to face a similar repair procedure to yours. The 200€ cost reference helps me budget for the potential repair. I will schedule a workshop visit this week and make sure they verify the GPS signal strength after any repairs. Thanks for helping me understand what I might be facing, it is definitely better to go to the workshop with some knowledge about the likely issue.
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rudolfwalter1
I had almost the exact same GPS signal issue with my VW Golf 2015 diesel, which uses a similar car GPS system to your Eos. After seeing the GPS antenna error in the diagnostic scan, I took it to my regular workshop where I have moderate experience with electronics repairs. The problem was indeed a faulty GPS module. The workshop confirmed the GPS antenna had developed a fault due to water ingress, a common issue in these VW models. The repair involved replacing the complete GPS antenna unit mounted on the roof, as individual repairs to the connections were not possible due to the sealed design. Total repair cost was 200€ including parts and labor. The GPS signal returned immediately after replacement, and the navigation system has worked flawlessly since then. To help diagnose your specific case more accurately, could you share: Does the GPS fail completely or does it work intermittently? Have you noticed any water spots on the headliner near the antenna? Are there any other car electronics showing errors besides the GPS system? Which exact error code is showing up in your diagnostic scan? This information would help determine if your issue matches the common GPS antenna failure pattern seen in these VW models.