VW Tiguan Multiple Errors Points to Radar Sensor Issue

I had a very similar issue with my VW Passat 2008 diesel. As someone with moderate experience working on VWs, I initially thought it was a major electrical problem, but it turned out to be much simpler. The adaptive cruise control and collision avoidance systems were showing errors, along with multiple warning lights. The safety systems were completely deactivated. My workshop discovered the radar sensor was just extremely dirty, affecting all driving assistance features. The fix was straightforward, they thoroughly cleaned the sensor and recalibrated the system. Total cost was 45€ for the cleaning and diagnostic work. Since then, I regularly check the sensor area to prevent buildup. To help diagnose your specific case, could you share: Exact error messages showing up, Whether this started suddenly or gradually, If you recently drove through particularly dirty conditions, If any body work was done near the sensor area The symptoms match what I experienced, but knowing these details would help determine if its the same root cause or if you might be dealing with a different sensor failure requiring more extensive repairs.

Latest service was done at 124100km. Thanks for the detailed response. The errors appeared suddenly after driving through heavy rain. Current error messages are: Front Assist not available, ACC control system malfunction, Park pilot error No recent body work has been done. Cleaning the automotive sensors myself didnt resolve the issue. The driving assistance systems remain completely offline. The radar calibration seems like a logical next step, but Im hesitant about potential costs if the sensor itself needs replacement. Getting it properly diagnosed before committing to repairs. Did your workshop mention typical sensor replacement costs during your repair?

Having gone through this with my VW Passat, I understand your concern about repair costs. The symptoms you describe, especially all driving assistance features failing after heavy rain, strongly suggest sensor issues. While cleaning worked in my case, your situation sounds more serious since DIY cleaning didnt help. When my workshop checked, they mentioned sensor replacement costs typically range from 600€-900€ plus calibration fees around 200€-300€. However, before jumping to replacement, have the workshop check the sensor wiring and connections. Water ingress can corrode connections, causing sensor malfunction without requiring full replacement. The error combination (Front Assist, ACC, Park Pilot) matches the pattern of a failing front radar sensor. These safety systems are interconnected, which explains the cascade of failures. My mechanic explained that water damage to radar sensors is unfortunately common in these VW models. One cost-saving tip: some workshops can repair water-damaged sensor units for about half the cost of replacement. Worth asking about repair options before committing to a new sensor. Just ensure they include proper calibration in any repair quote, as incorrect calibration can cause persistent system failures.

Thank you for sharing your experience and the price ranges. Just got back from the workshop, turns out you were right about checking connections first. They found corrosion in the main sensor connector causing intermittent failures in all driving assistance systems. The repair was much cheaper than a full sensor replacement. They cleaned the connections, applied dielectric grease, and performed a radar calibration. Total cost was 280€, which included diagnostic work and system recalibration. All safety systems are now functioning properly. The workshop recommended regular inspection of sensor areas and connections, especially during seasonal maintenance. They also applied a water-resistant sealant around the sensor housing to prevent future water ingress issues. For anyone else facing similar problems: dont immediately assume you need a new sensor. Having proper diagnostics done first can save significant money, as my case shows. The safety systems in these cars are quite robust, often its just connection issues rather than complete sensor failure causing these widespread errors.