VW Lupo E-Brake Failure: Warning Light Stays On

Last month I dealt with a similar electronic brake system failure on my 2004 VW Polo TDI at 145000km. The symptoms matched exactly, constant brake warning light and error codes pointing to the electronic parking brake module. During brake diagnostics, it turned out the electric motor in the brake caliper had failed completely. This is a serious vehicle safety concern since the electronic handbrake system provides both parking and emergency brake functions. The repair required: Full electronic brake system scan, Replacement of the brake caliper motor unit, Recalibration of the parking brake system, Testing of all brake safety functions This type of system glitch often originates from either failed motors, damaged wiring, or a faulty control module. In VW models from this era, the caliper motors are known to be a common failure point. The repair is not a simple DIY job as it requires specialized diagnostic equipment to properly reset and calibrate the system after parts replacement. Without proper calibration, you risk potential brake failure. Based on the symptoms described, I strongly recommend having it checked at a shop with experience in VW electronic brake systems. The repair is essential for vehicle safety and should not be postponed.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the electronic brake repair. The exact same issue happened on my 2001 Lupo last spring, complete brake sensor failure and constant warning lights. Based on the brake diagnostics my mechanic ran, turned out the brake control module was fried and needed full replacement along with the caliper motor. Really helpful to know the brake switch problems are common in these models. How did your repair hold up since then? Just wondering if any other related issues popped up later. Also, would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was for your brake failure fix? Still debating whether to repair or sell mine.

Since having the electronic parking brake issue fixed at the dealership a month ago, the system has worked flawlessly. The brake control unit and warning lights are all functioning normally now. The repair cost came to 505€ for replacing the defective electric motor in the brake caliper, which included the parts, labor, and complete system recalibration. The brake diagnostics confirmed it was definitely the caliper motor causing the fault, rather than the control module in my case. After the repair, they ran a full electronic brake system test to ensure all safety functions were restored properly. For these VW models, once the faulty components are replaced and properly calibrated, the fix tends to be permanent. I havent experienced any related brake sensor issues or warning lights since the repair. The electronic parking brake now engages smoothly every time. Given how critical the brake system is for safety, I would recommend getting the repair done rather than selling with a known brake fault. The cost is significant but less than dealing with potential brake failure or taking a hit on resale value.

Thanks for the input. After getting multiple repair quotes, I finally got my Lupo fixed at a specialized VW workshop. The total repair came to 820€ which included replacing both the faulty brake control module and the caliper motor. The mechanic found corroded wiring had damaged the control unit, leading to complete parking brake failure. They had to trace and repair several connection points before installing the new components. The diagnostic process took longer than expected but they were thorough in testing all brake safety systems. Pretty relieved to have working brakes again, the warning lights are gone and the electronic parking brake engages perfectly now. No more worrying about potential brake failure when parking on hills. The shop also gave me some maintenance tips to prevent future issues with the electronic brake system. Though expensive, having a properly functioning parking brake gives me peace of mind. Much better than trying to sell the car with known brake faults. Really appreciate all the advice that helped me make an informed decision about the repair.