VW Transporter E-Brake System Complete Failure Fix

Having dealt with a similar electronic brake issue on my VW Caddy 2015 gasoline model, I can share some relevant experience. After noticing brake fault warnings and complete electronic parking brake failure, I found it was related to a system glitch in the brake control unit. The main issue turned out to be an electric motor in the brake calliper that had failed completely. With some experience working on VW vehicles, I still opted to have this fixed professionally due to the complexity of electronic brake systems. The repair involved: 1. Complete diagnostic scan 2. Replacement of defective brake calliper motor 3. Recalibration of the electronic brake system 4. System testing to ensure proper function Total repair cost was 505€, including parts and labor. The workshop needed about 4 hours to complete everything. To provide more specific advice for your case, could you share: Current mileage on your Transporter, Whether you hear any unusual sounds when engaging the parking brake, If the problem occurred suddenly or developed gradually, Any recent work done on the brake system These electronic parking brake issues often stem from either a failed brake switch or complete brake control unit failure, but proper diagnosis is essential before replacing parts.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the electronic brake issue. My Transporter just had its service completed last week and has 25527km on the clock. The brake fault appeared gradually over two weeks. Initially, there was a slight mechanical noise when engaging the parking brake, followed by intermittent warning lights. Now the system has completely failed with constant warning lights. I performed a basic brake diagnostics scan which showed error codes, but I am wondering if the brake control unit needs replacement or if its just the brake sensor. The parking brake seems to engage mechanically but the electronic system is not responding. Would be helpful to know the specific error codes you encountered during your repair and whether your symptoms matched mine before proceeding with any parts replacement.

Your symptoms definitely sound similar to what I experienced with my Caddy. The gradual progression from mechanical noise to complete electronic brake failure matches exactly what happened in my case. The most telling sign was that mechanical engagement still worked while the electronic system failed. This points strongly to a brake control unit issue rather than just a sensor problem. In my repair, the error codes were related to the actuator motor circuit, which explains both the noise and eventual system failure. Since your vehicle recently had service, its worth checking if any brake work was done that could have triggered these issues. The low mileage suggests this is likely a system glitch or electronic component failure rather than wear-related damage. From my experience, waiting too long to address vehicle safety issues like this can lead to more extensive electronic brake system problems. When my actuator motor failed, it also damaged part of the control unit, increasing the repair cost significantly. Given the matching symptoms, I recommend having a professional diagnostic scan done specifically focusing on the brake control module. The repair costs might be similar to what I paid (around 500€), but prices can vary based on exactly which components need replacement. The vehicle safety systems need proper calibration after any electronic brake repairs, so DIY fixes are generally not recommended for these complex systems.

Thanks for the detailed information about your Caddy repair. Very useful to hear about the specific symptoms and repair process. My mileage reading of 25527km seems quite low for this type of brake control failure to occur. I guess electronic issues can happen regardless of vehicle age or usage. After hearing about your experience, I will get a professional workshop to do a complete diagnostic scan of the brake control unit. The matching symptoms with the noise progression and eventual system failure make me think its likely the same actuator motor problem you encountered. Good point about not waiting too long, I will book it in next week for repair. The 500€ cost seems reasonable considering the complexity of electronic brake systems and the safety aspects involved. Better to fix it properly now than risk more expensive brake control unit damage later. Will the workshop need the car for a full day to complete the electronic parking brake repair and testing? Also wondering if they provide any warranty on the replacement parts and recalibration work.