VW Golf Climate Control Failure: HVAC Sensor Alert

As someone with moderate experience working on VWs, I faced an identical climate regulation problem with my 2020 VW Passat Hybrid last summer. The temperature reading issues and HVAC sensor malfunction symptoms matched exactly what you're describing. After initial diagnostics, my workshop found that the temperature sensor connection had worked loose over time. The main issue was a damaged wire harness where the HVAC sensor connects to the climate control module. The repair involved replacing the wiring and properly securing the connection, which cost 95€ including diagnostic time. The fix has been permanent, no more temperature control issues or error codes since then. The automatic climate control system now responds correctly and maintains the set temperature. To provide more specific guidance for your case, could you share: The exact error code showing in your system, Whether the issue started suddenly or developed gradually, If you notice any unusual sounds from the climate control unit, Whether the manual fan controls still work These details would help determine if you're dealing with the same sensor issues I experienced or if there might be another component involved.

Latest service completed at 81000km. The error code is P0073 and pops up constantly. The automatic climate control stopped working suddenly during highway driving, with no warning signs before. The manual fan speed controls still function, but there are clicking sounds from behind the dashboard when adjusting temperature settings. A local scan revealed the ambient temperature sensor is sending incorrect signals to the control unit. The temperature reading jumps out of nowhere between -20C and +50C on the display. These sensor issues are making the HVAC system completely unreliable. Would checking the wiring harness connection be a good first step before replacing the entire sensor unit? The repair costs and approach you mentioned seem reasonable compared to the 450€ quote I received for a complete sensor replacement.

Having gone through this exact scenario with my Passat, the symptoms you describe with the P0073 code and erratic temperature readings strongly point to similar wiring issues I encountered rather than a complete sensor failure. The clicking sounds and unusual temperature fluctuations between -20C and +50C match what I experienced before the repair. In my case, the wire harness inspection revealed wire insulation damage near the connection point, causing intermittent sensor signal disruptions and climate control malfunctions. Definitely start with checking the wiring harness, its much more cost effective than immediately replacing the entire sensor unit. The sudden onset during highway driving also suggests a connection issue rather than gradual sensor deterioration. When my workshop examined the wiring, they found vibration had worsened an existing harness weakness. The 450€ quote for full sensor replacement seems excessive considering the climate regulation problems might be solved with wiring repairs alone. For reference, my total repair including: Diagnostic time, Wire harness inspection, Connection repair, System testing Came to just 95€ and completely resolved the HVAC sensor issues. Request that your workshop specifically inspect the wiring connections before committing to full sensor replacement. The erratic temperature readings are a classic sign of connection problems rather than sensor failure.

Thanks for sharing those repair details, this helps confirm my initial suspicions. Based on your experience and the matching error code, I'll definitely have them check the wiring connections first before replacing any HVAC sensors. The clicking sounds and erratic temperature readings on my display are exactly what you described with your harness issue. Saving 350€ would be great if the climate control problems can be fixed with just wiring repairs. The sudden failure during highway driving does suggest loose connections rather than a bad sensor. I'll schedule an appointment to have them inspect the wire harness specifically where the HVAC sensor connects to the control module. I'll update once they complete the diagnostics and determine if simple wiring repairs will resolve my sensor issues. Really appreciate the detailed explanation of your repair process and costs, gives me a much clearer picture of what to expect.