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vincentknight7

VW Fox Speedometer Error + Turn Signal Malfunction Fix

Hey forum! Looking for advice on my 2011 VW Fox diesel (84850km). The speedometer keeps showing an error message and my turn indicator light is acting up. I noticed an error code stored in the system too. Pretty sure its a broken lens or faulty indicator light, but my last mechanic experience wasnt great. Has anyone dealt with similar lighting issues on their Fox? What was the actual problem and did you find a reliable fix? Would really appreciate hearing about your experiences before taking it back to a shop.

4 comment(s)

marco_koenig6

Had the same issue on my 2014 VW Polo TDI at 92000km. The turn signal problems combined with speedometer errors typically point to a failing electrical connection in the steering column module. Initial diagnosis suggested a simple bulb replacement, but the real culprit was a damaged wiring harness where it flexes near the steering column. The turn indicator would work intermittently and trigger unusual error codes in the system. The repair involved replacing the complete wiring harness assembly for the steering column. While not a cheap fix, its essential since it affects multiple systems including the speedometer and turn signals. Its definitely not something to ignore as it can lead to complete electrical fault in the steering controls. After the harness replacement, both the speedometer and flasher relay started working properly again. The error codes cleared and havent returned since. This is a known weak point in several VW models from that generation, particularly when the original wiring starts to age. Would recommend getting it checked by a VW specialist who knows these specific electrical issues. Its not a quick roadside fix, but its a permanent solution when done correctly.

vincentknight7 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your Polo experience. Just went through something very similar with my Fox last summer. Same symptoms with the automotive lighting going crazy and speedometer acting up. My indicator light issues turned out to be more than just a flasher relay problem like yours. The mechanic found corroded connectors in addition to the damaged wiring harness you mentioned. Would be curious to know how much you ended up paying for your repair? Has everything stayed working properly since the fix? My repair has held up well but would like to hear about the long-term reliability of your solution.

marco_koenig6

Good to report back on my Polo repair. The electrical fault was indeed very similar to your Fox issue. My lamp replacement actually turned out to be much simpler than initially feared. The mechanic found a faulty connection in the indicator light assembly that was causing the intermittent problems. The final bill came to 95€ for fixing the cable connection, which was way less than the complete harness replacement they first quoted. Since having the indicator light repaired six months ago, everything has worked flawlessly. No more error codes or speedometer glitches. The broken lens wasnt actually the problem in my case, it was purely the electrical connection that needed attention. Definitely worth finding a mechanic who really understands these specific bulb replacement and wiring issues rather than just throwing parts at the problem.

vincentknight7 (Author)

Thanks everyone for the helpful insights. Just wanted to close this thread with my repair experience. Took my Fox to a different workshop that specializes in VW electrical systems. The mechanic found multiple issues beyond the signal lamp problems. The wiring had deteriorated and the flasher relay was damaged from water intrusion. Total repair came to 280€ including new wiring, connectors, and labor. The turn signal now works perfectly and the speedometer error disappeared completely. Really glad I asked here first, saved me from another frustrating experience at my regular shop who probably would have just replaced the broken lens and called it fixed. Been driving for 3 weeks since the repair with zero issues. Big improvement from the constant warning lights and unusual errors before. Will update if anything changes, but looking good so far.

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