VW Transporter AC System Dead, Common Fixes & Costs

As someone with some repair experience, I dealt with a similar AC efficiency problem on my 2014 VW Caravelle last summer. Initially thought it was a minor refrigerant leak, but the complete system shutdown pointed to something more serious. Took it to my regular workshop for AC diagnostics. They found defective valves in the AC system that were preventing proper operation. The valves had completely failed, which explained why the system wouldn't even activate. The repair involved: Full system diagnosis, Replacement of faulty valves, New refrigerant charge, System pressure testing Total cost came to 1000€ including parts and labor. While expensive, it completely resolved the issue and the AC has worked flawlessly since. Before suggesting more specific solutions, could you share: Any warning signs before the complete failure? Does the AC compressor engage when you turn the system on? Have you noticed any unusual AC noise before it stopped working? When was your last AC maintenance service? These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced with the valve failure.

Thanks for your input about the AC valve issue. My VW was last serviced 3 months ago at 149000km. Before the AC completely died, the blower motor was making an unusual rattling sound for about a week. When trying to activate the AC now, I can hear the system trying to engage but nothing happens, no air flow at all. The timing is concerning since summer is approaching. Good to know about your valve repair experience, definitely helps me prepare for potential costs. At least I now know what questions to ask the workshop about checking the valves along with the pressure switch during diagnostics.

Thanks for those extra details about the blower motor noise. That rattling sound before failure is quite different from what I experienced with my Caravelle, mine had valve issues but no blower problems. Based on your symptoms, particularly the lack of airflow, this points more toward a failed blower motor rather than the valve problem I had. When the temperature control system detects a blower motor fault, it often prevents the AC compressor from engaging as a safety measure. In my experience with VW AC systems, a faulty pressure switch usually still allows some airflow. The complete absence of air movement strongly suggests the blower motor needs replacement. For reference, a blower motor replacement on these models typically runs 400-600€, significantly less than my valve repair. Since your vehicle was recently serviced, it might be worth checking if this would be covered under any service warranty. Have you noticed any burning smell from the vents? This could confirm if the blower motor has burnt out. Also, does the fan work on any speed setting, or is it completely dead across all levels?

Thank you for all the helpful feedback about potential AC issues. After hearing about the different possibilities, I realize my symptoms with the blower motor noise and complete airflow failure are quite distinct from your valve problem. The burning smell you asked about, yes, I did notice a slight electrical smell from the vents just before it failed completely. The fan doesnt work on any setting now, which seems to confirm the blower motor theory rather than a pressure switch or refrigerant leak issue. I feel better prepared to discuss this with my workshop now. The 400-600€ estimate for blower motor replacement helps set realistic expectations. Since AC efficiency is critical with summer coming, I will get this checked right away. Will also have them verify the temperature control system and check if any warranty coverage applies since the recent service. Really appreciate all the specific AC system information, helped me understand the likely problem before heading to the shop.