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raphaelstern79

VW Polo Power Windows Dead, Regulator Error Alert

My power windows stopped working completely and the diagnostic scan shows a window regulator error. Any idea if this could be a simple initialization issue or something more serious? The window controls on the door panel are unresponsive on all doors. Car is a 2001 VW Polo Diesel with 80928km on the clock. Would prefer to know what I might be dealing with before heading back to a shop after a previous bad experience. Has anyone encountered similar car electronics issues with their Polo?

4 comment(s)

ClaudiWag

The window regulator issues on VW models from that era are quite common. I dealt with a similar problem on my 2004 VW Golf TDI last winter. When all power windows fail simultaneously, the issue typically points to either the central control module or a power supply problem rather than individual window motors. In my case, the car electronics showed similar symptoms, completely unresponsive window controls on all doors. The diagnosis revealed a faulty central control module, which also affected other electrical components. The fix required replacing the control module and reprogramming the window regulators. Before assuming the worst, try this basic troubleshooting: 1. Check all related fuses 2. Attempt a system reset by disconnecting the battery for 15 minutes 3. Listen for clicking sounds when pressing the window controls 4. Test if the central locking system works properly If these steps dont resolve the issue, its likely more than a simple initialization problem. The window regulator system might need professional diagnostic testing, as the issue could stem from: Failed central control module, Damaged wiring harness, Multiple faulty window motors, Power distribution problems This was definitely a serious repair job that required specialized diagnostic equipment and programming tools to resolve.

raphaelstern79 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience! I recently faced an identical problem with my VW Polo, all window controls stopped working at once. The window regulator diagnostic showed similar errors and I also suspected a central module failure. After trying the troubleshooting steps you mentioned, I ended up needing professional help since none of the window controls responded. Turned out the central control module needed replacement just like in your case. Would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was in your situation? Also curious if youve had any other electrical issues pop up since fixing the window regulator system? My mechanic mentioned these problems sometimes come in pairs with other electrical gremlins.

ClaudiWag

Actually, the final repair turned out differently than initially expected. While my central module seemed similar to your case, the root cause was the vehicle battery causing erratic behavior in the car electronics. After replacement, the window regulator initialization was successful and all window controls started working perfectly again. The total cost came to 290€ for the battery replacement and diagnostic work. Since fixing this, all door panel controls have functioned normally with no additional electrical problems. The window motors and regulators were all in good condition, they just needed proper power and initialization. This is pretty common with aging VWs, a weak battery can cause various electrical symptoms that mimic more serious control module failures. The good news is that once properly diagnosed, its often a simpler fix than replacing the entire central control unit. All window controls have worked flawlessly for the past year without any other electrical gremlins showing up. Regular battery maintenance seems key to preventing these issues from recurring.

raphaelstern79 (Author)

Thanks everyone for the helpful advice! I wanted to share how my repair experience turned out. After checking all the window controls and getting that initial error code, I took it to my local VW specialist. The mechanic ran a complete electrical diagnostic on the window regulator system. The door panel controls were completely dead, just as others described. They found the window reset procedure didnt help, and after testing the central module, discovered it was indeed faulty. The repair cost came to 580€ including parts and labor. While it was more than I hoped to spend, the window troubleshooting revealed the exact problem and the fix was worth it. All power windows now work perfectly, and the mechanics thorough testing ensured there were no other electrical issues lurking. Good to know these issues are relatively common on older VWs. For anyone else facing similar symptoms, definitely get it properly diagnosed rather than assuming its just a simple initialization problem. Proper window controls really make a difference in daily driving comfort.

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