VW Scirocco Massage Function Dead: Control Switch Issue

As someone with some experience working on luxury car electrical systems, I had a similar issue with my 2014 Golf GTI massage seats. The symptoms were identical, complete failure of the massage function with an error code stored in the system. After initial troubleshooting, I discovered it was a loose cable connection behind the seat control module. The workshop found that the plug connecting the massage motors to the control unit had worked itself loose over time and needed to be properly reseated and secured. The total repair cost was 95€, which included diagnostic time and fixing the connection. Before taking it to a workshop, you can check if: All fuses related to seat functions are intact, The massage function is completely dead or intermittent, Other seat electrical functions work normally, There are any unusual noises when activating the massage setting To provide more specific guidance about your car upholstery issue, could you share: Have you noticed any warning lights on the dashboard? Are other seat adjustment functions working properly? Did the problem start suddenly or gradually? Can you hear any motor sounds when activating the massage feature?

Thanks for the detailed response about the seat motor issue. After checking all fuses and trying your suggested tests, I can confirm other power seat functions work fine except for the massage setting. The automotive seats control module shows no warning lights, and I hear no sounds when trying to activate the massage function. The issue started suddenly last week, was working fine one day, completely dead the next. Particularly helpful was your tip about checking the connections. While inspecting behind the seat control module, I noticed the wiring looks intact but there might be a loose connection as you mentioned. Since my last service was only 2000km ago, I'm wondering if the massage seat components got disturbed during maintenance work. I will try disconnecting and reconnecting the control module connections first before booking a workshop appointment. Would you happen to know the typical lifespan of these massage motors in VW seats?

Your electrical issue diagnosis approach sounds spot on. Having worked with these VW massage seat systems, I can tell you the motors typically last 8-10 years with regular use, so your sudden failure does point more toward a connection problem rather than worn out components. The timing with your recent service is interesting, I had almost the exact same situation where the massage function failed shortly after routine maintenance. In my case, the technician had to move the seat wiring to access other components and didnt properly reseat the connections. A simple disconnection and reconnection of the seat switch module fixed it completely. A quick test you can try: firmly press the massage seat switch while activating the function. Sometimes this temporarily restores operation if its just a loose connection. If this works even briefly, its almost certainly a connection issue rather than a failed motor. If reconnecting the module doesnt solve it, the repair will likely run 150-250€ depending on whether its just connections or if the control module needs replacement. Much better than the 800€+ for a full massage motor replacement. Let us know if the reconnection works, would be helpful for others facing similar car upholstery problems.

Thanks everyone for the guidance. After trying the suggested checks and the seat switch test, I managed to partially diagnose the issue. The connection reset temporarily worked, the massage function came back for about 10 minutes before failing again. This confirms its likely an electrical connection problem rather than a complete motor failure. Booked an appointment with my regular workshop for next week. They quoted 180€ for diagnostics and repair of the massage chair connections, which seems reasonable given the suggested price range. Will update once they identify if its just loose wiring or if the control module needs replacement. Really helpful to know about the typical 8-10 year lifespan of these automotive seats components. At least I know the massage motors themselves should still have plenty of life left since my car is only 7 years old. Hoping its just those pesky loose connections from the recent maintenance work.