VW Sharan AC Failure: Compressor Warning Signs

Had almost the exact same AC unit issues on my 2017 VW Touran diesel last summer. Having some experience with auto AC repair through previous problems, I first thought it was a refrigerant leak too. The symptoms matched perfectly, AC not cooling and system completely dead, plus warning lights. Took it to my regular workshop for diagnostics since AC systems need specialized equipment to properly test. Turned out the AC control unit was completely defective, not the compressor as initially suspected. The repair involved replacing the entire control module plus reprogramming the new unit. Total cost was 980€ including parts, labor and system recharge. Before suggesting specific fixes for your Sharan, could you share: When did the problem first start? Any unusual sounds before it failed? Does the fan still work on any setting? Which error codes are stored? This would help determine if you are dealing with the same AC compressor or control unit failure. The systems are very similar between these VW models, but proper diagnosis is essential before any repairs. Would also recommend having a certified shop check for potential refrigerant leaks first, as this is often a simpler and less expensive fix compared to control unit replacement.

Latest service was 3 months ago at 18000km mark. Thanks for that detailed feedback on your Touran AC issues. For my case, the problems started about 2 weeks ago during a particularly hot period. No unusual sounds noted before the failure. The fan still works normally on all settings. Got the following error codes from my OBD reader: B10E2, AC Compressor Control Circuit B10E8, AC System Performance The vehicle HVAC symptoms do sound quite similar to what you described. Appreciate the tip about checking for refrigerant leaks first, definitely makes sense to rule out the simpler issues before replacing major components. Going to schedule a proper automotive cooling system diagnostic test this week. Will update once I know more about whether its the control unit or compressor causing the issue.

Thanks for those additional details. Looking at those specific error codes and symptoms, your Sharan is showing identical signs to what my Touran displayed before the repair. The B10E2 code particularly stands out, this was exactly what led my mechanic to check the control unit rather than immediately suspecting the AC compressor. When the car air conditioning control circuit fails, it can mimic compressor issues. The fact your fan still works normally on all settings is another key indicator matching my situation. With a failed compressor, you typically get some grinding or squealing noises before complete failure, which you havent experienced. Based on the automotive cooling system diagnostic report I got back then, the control module was unable to properly engage the compressor clutch, even though the compressor itself was mechanically sound. This explains why the auto AC repair required a complete control unit replacement. Given the close similarity of our cases and these VW models shared components, I strongly suspect youll find the same root cause. If so, expect repair costs around 900-1100€ depending on current parts pricing. One tip from my experience: have them check the wiring harness connections during diagnosis. In my case, they found some minor corrosion on the control unit plugs that needed cleaning to ensure the new unit worked properly.

The AC unit stopped working about 2 weeks ago during a heat wave. No unusual noises before failure, and the fan still works fine on all settings. Got error codes B10E2 and B10E8 from my OBD reader. Your experience with the Touran control unit failure sounds very similar to my situation. The matching error codes and symptoms are quite telling. Really helpful to know that a failed control module can mimic AC compressor problems. Taking your advice about checking for simple issues first. Have booked a full auto AC repair diagnostic for tomorrow morning. The shop mentioned theyll test for refrigerant leaks and inspect the control unit wiring connections as part of their assessment. Will definitely have them verify the wiring harness condition given your experience with corrosion issues. If it does turn out to be the control unit, at least I know the likely repair cost range of 900-1100€. Thanks for sharing such detailed insights about your automotive cooling system repairs. It helps having a good idea of what to expect before heading to the workshop. Will post an update once I get the diagnostic results back.