VW Passat Power Window System Failure & Solutions

Having some experience with automotive repair, I faced a similar issue with my 2021 VW Arteon Hybrid last year. The power windows stopped responding completely, showing an error message just like yours. Initially thought the window motor or regulator motor was faulty, but after taking it to the workshop, they diagnosed a defective main power window switch in the driver door panel. The entire repair process took about 2 hours and cost 200€, including parts and labor. The technician explained that these window switch modules are fairly complex in modern hybrids, controlling multiple functions beyond just the windows. In my case, they had to remove the door panel, replace the switch unit, and recalibrate the system. To better assist with your specific situation, could you provide: Have you noticed any unusual sounds when pressing the switches? Does this affect all windows or just specific ones? Are there any other electrical issues in the door panels? What error code is showing exactly? This information would help determine if your issue is similar to what I experienced or if it might be a different problem with the power windows system.

Thanks for the feedback. With my mileage at 115842km, I should mention that I do hear a clicking sound when pressing the switches, but only from the front windows. The rear ones are completely silent. The error code showing is 00556, and there are no other electrical issues in any door panels that I can notice. All windows are affected equally, none work at all, neither up nor down. I checked the window control module through the infotainment system and it shows no response whatsoever when activating the switches. This makes me think the issue might be more complex than just a faulty regulator motor. I just had my regular service done last week, but they didn't pick up on any window-related problems during their checks.

Good to hear back about your Passat's window issues. After reading your details, I am even more convinced your situation mirrors what I experienced with my Arteon. That clicking sound from the front window switches is exactly what I heard before my complete system failure, and the error code 00556 is the same one I encountered. The fact that your window control module shows no response through the infotainment system strongly suggests a control module issue rather than individual window regulators. In my case, when they dug deeper, they found that moisture had damaged the main control unit connections, causing system-wide failure. Given your mileage and the symptoms, I would recommend having the control module checked first before replacing any window regulators. The complete module replacement and reprogramming for my Arteon ran about 450€, but it solved all issues permanently. This approach saved me from unnecessarily replacing individual window components. Quick tip from my experience: While waiting for repairs, try disconnecting the car battery for 10 minutes. This sometimes resets the window control system and could temporarily restore function, though it likely wont fix the underlying issue.

Thanks for sharing those details from your Arteon experience. The clicking sound and complete system failure definitely match what I am experiencing. Your suggestion about the control module being the likely culprit makes a lot of sense, especially since my window mechanism seems mechanically sound but electrically dead. I actually tried the battery disconnect trick you mentioned before contacting the shop, but sadly it did not help. Given that the symptoms align so closely with your case, I will focus on having them check the window control module first. The 450€ repair cost you mentioned is higher than I hoped, but still better than replacing multiple window track components unnecessarily. I will book an appointment with my regular shop and specifically ask them to inspect the control module and check for any moisture damage in the connections. Hopefully they can resolve it as efficiently as your repair went. Will update once I know more about what they find.