VW T-Cross AC Dead: Common Relay & Switch Fixes

Had the same issue on my 2020 VW Polo TSI last summer. The AC system completely failed, no response from controls and no airflow. Initial diagnosis revealed multiple issues: a faulty AC relay, failing blower motor, and most critically, defective expansion valves. The expansion valve issue was serious since it affected the entire temperature control system and refrigerant flow. The repair required: Complete AC system evacuation, Replacement of expansion valves, Installation of new AC relay, Refrigerant leak testing, Full system recharge The job took 2 full days due to the complexity of accessing the components and ensuring proper AC maintenance after reassembly. The expansion valve replacement was particularly time-consuming as it required partial dismantling of the dashboard. Given your T-Cross symptoms match mine exactly, I suggest getting the AC relay checked first since its the easiest to diagnose. However, be prepared for potential valve issues, especially at that mileage. This isnt a quick fix job if valves are involved, proper diagnosis and repair are essential for long-term reliability.

Thanks for sharing your Polo experience. I had nearly identical symptoms on my T-Cross last month. No cold air, complete system failure. Mechanic found a refrigerant leak at the expansion valve, which needed replacing. Also had them do a full AC diagnostics and cooling system pressure test while it was in. Did you have any problems after the repair? Curious what the total cost was for your fix with parts and labor. Since my cooling system repair, everything has worked flawlessly but it was pretty expensive upfront. Would like to compare costs if you dont mind sharing.

The repairs completely resolved my AC issues, no problems at all since the fix was done. The temperature control works perfectly now, with consistent cold air flow and no AC noise. Total cost came to 1000€ for diagnosing and fixing the defective valves in the air conditioning system. This included a thorough AC maintenance check, new valve components, labor for the system teardown, and a full refrigerant recharge after confirming no refrigerant leak remained. Like your experience, the upfront cost was significant but worth it for restoring proper function. The careful diagnostic work and complete system testing by the mechanic proved essential for a lasting repair. Considering the complexity of modern AC systems, investing in a proper fix makes more sense than temporary solutions that might lead to recurring issues.

After talking with others here, I finally went to get my T-Cross fixed last week. Found a new mechanic who really knew their stuff about cooling system problems. Smart move getting a second opinion. They confirmed the expansion valve issue and found an additional refrigerant leak near the compressor. The repair included pressure testing, new valves, fixing the leak and a complete system recharge. Total bill hit 1200€ but they did a thorough job with AC maintenance and system checks. Took them about a day and half total, dropped it off Tuesday morning, got it back Wednesday afternoon. Temperature control is perfect now, cold air blasts like new, and no weird noises. Even the pressure switch they replaced seems to have improved the overall performance. Worth every cent compared to my previous mechanic who kept doing quick fixes that never solved the real problem. Sometimes paying more upfront saves money in the long run.