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elizabethflamme1

VW Passat Tailgate Sensor Malfunction Fix Guide

My power tailgate started acting up recently, only opens halfway and then stops. On-board computer shows an error message. Could be a tailgate sensor fault from what I understand. Anyone dealt with similar issues on their automatic tailgate? Driving a 2021 VW Passat Hybrid with 12106km. Want to avoid another disappointing mechanic experience, so looking for advice on getting this fixed properly.

4 comment(s)

hansmiller4

Had the same sensor fault on my 2018 VW Arteon Hybrid. The power tailgate issue typically stems from a failing sensor wiring connection or a miscalibrated positioning sensor. After thorough diagnostics, the problem was traced to corroded wiring connectors between the tailgate sensor and control module. The sensor calibration was also off due to moisture infiltration. The fix required: Complete removal of tailgate trim, Replacement of sensor wiring harness, Recalibration of position sensors, Testing of all tailgate functions This was not a quick fix, took about 4 hours in the shop. While not a severe mechanical issue, leaving it unfixed can lead to complete tailgate failure or damage to the motor mechanism. Key is finding a shop familiar with vehicle sensor diagnostics on VW hybrids. They need proper diagnostic equipment to accurately calibrate the sensors after repair. Would definitely recommend getting it checked soon before the issue worsens.

elizabethflamme1 (Author)

Thanks for sharing those details on the tailgate sensor repair. Your description matches my issue perfectly. Dealt with something similar on my 2020 Passat last winter when the tailgate started acting up. A faulty hall sensor was causing inconsistent operation. Did the repair hold up well since then? And if you remember, what was the total cost for fixing the electrical sensor system? My local shop quoted me 450€ for diagnostics and repair but that seems a bit steep. Just trying to get a sense if that is in the normal range before I commit to the work.

hansmiller4

Since having the tailgate hall sensor fault fixed at the shop, the system has worked flawlessly. The open tailgate function operates smoothly now, just like when the car was new. The repair cost was surprisingly reasonable at 95€. This covered fixing a faulty cable connection at the sensor wiring harness. Much lower than your quoted 450€ for diagnostics and repair. The electrical sensor issue turned out to be simpler than initially suspected, just a loose plug connection causing the intermittent sensor fault. Given my experience, might be worth getting a second opinion. While sensor calibration and extensive diagnostics are sometimes needed, often these tailgate issues stem from basic wiring problems that dont require major repairs.

elizabethflamme1 (Author)

I took my Passat to a different shop based on your feedback and saved quite a bit of money. The mechanics found a similar wiring issue with the electrical sensor system. Total repair came to 120€, including a basic sensor calibration and new connector plug. The power tailgate works perfectly now, opens and closes smoothly without stopping midway. The error message is gone too. Really glad I asked here first and got that second opinion. Would have paid nearly four times more at the first shop for essentially the same fix. Just wanted to close the loop and let others know these tailgate sensor problems often have simpler solutions than shops might initially suggest. Thanks again for sharing your experience, it helped me avoid an unnecessarily expensive repair.

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