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FelixRi

VW Touran Sunroof Dead: Initialization Error Guide

Hi, having trouble with my 2015 VW Touran (1.4 TSI, 139000km). The automobile sunroof system seems completely dead, sunblind is frozen in position and the entire mechanism wont budge at all. Getting a sunroof not initialized error on the display. Had a not-so-great experience with my usual mechanic last time, so looking for recommendations on what this might be and if anyone has dealt with similar sunroof troubleshooting. Any tips on what to expect for repairs or rough cost estimates would be really helpful. Also curious if this is something that needs immediate attention or if its okay to wait a bit. Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences.

4 comment(s)

idalight1

Similar sunroof issues occurred on my 2018 VW Golf TSI. The sunroof operation completely stopped, showing the same initialization error. A thorough sunroof troubleshooting revealed the root cause was a failed control module, not just a simple reset requirement. The sunroof mechanism needed professional diagnosis and repair. The control module replacement and recoding of the sunroof system was necessary to restore proper functionality. While the repair wasnt particularly complex, it required specialized diagnostic equipment to properly code the new module to the vehicle systems. For the Touran issue described, this sounds very similar to a control module failure. The complete lack of response and frozen sunblind are typical symptoms. The sunroof reset procedure might work, but given the error message, its likely requiring module replacement or extensive repair. This isnt an urgent safety concern, but leaving it unaddressed can lead to potential water leaks if the sunroof isnt properly sealed. The repair typically requires: Full diagnostic scan, Control module testing, Potential module replacement, System recoding, Basic settings adjustment, Mechanical inspection of sunroof tracks Best to have it checked by a shop with proper VW diagnostic capabilities, as generic scanners often cant properly interface with the sunroof system.

FelixRi (Author)

Thanks for the detailed response about the sunroof control issue. The symptoms match exactly what I experienced. Did you remember roughly what you paid for the repair? Also curious if your sunroof operation has been smooth since the fix or if any other issues came up with the mechanism? Mine is booked in for repair next week and trying to budget accordingly.

idalight1

Great news about my vehicle sunroof repair, everything has worked flawlessly since getting it fixed. The sunroof operation is now completely smooth, with no error messages or mechanical issues for the past 8 months. The repair turned out simpler than expected, no module replacement was needed after all. The mechanic performed a sunroof reset and recoding procedure which solved the initialization error. Total cost came to 75€ for the diagnostic work and coding. Much better than the 400-600€ I was initially worried about for a potential module replacement. The car sunroof now opens, closes and tilts perfectly, plus the sunblind moves freely again. If your symptoms are identical, hopefully you might also just need the reset and recoding rather than major repairs. The fact that your control unit is showing the same error message suggests it could be a similar straightforward fix. Just make sure the shop has proper diagnostic equipment for VW sunroof systems specifically.

FelixRi (Author)

Thanks everyone for the feedback on the sunroof system issues. Just wanted to update that I got my car back from the shop yesterday. The mechanic found it was indeed a control module problem like suggested. The sunroof troubleshooting took about an hour, and they ended up having to replace the module completely. Total repair cost came to 520€ including parts and labor. More than I hoped for, but at least the vehicle sunroof is working perfectly now. The sunblind moves smoothly and all functions are back to normal. They also checked the drainage channels and seals while they had it apart, which was good peace of mind. Tested the sunroof several times since and no more error messages or issues. The shop had the right diagnostic equipment which made a big difference compared to my previous mechanic who couldnt even properly scan the system. Worth the extra cost to get it done right the first time. Thanks again for helping me understand what I was dealing with. Really helped when discussing the repair with the shop.

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