VW Up AC System Failure: Flap Causing Cold Air Issues

I had a very similar issue with my 2020 VW Polo last summer. Having some experience with car HVAC systems, I first suspected a refrigerant leak, but it turned out to be something different. The symptoms were identical, the climate control system showed errors and stopped producing cold air. The car HVAC diagnostics pointed to issues with the air distribution system. After taking it to the workshop, they found a faulty cable connection to the electronic control module for the climate system. The repair involved accessing the control unit behind the dashboard, replacing the damaged wiring connector, and running a full system diagnostics to ensure proper air distribution to all vents. Total cost was 95€ including parts and labor. To better assist with your specific case, could you share: Does the blower motor still work at all speeds? Are you getting any specific error codes? Have you noticed any unusual sounds when switching between different vent modes? When was the last time you had the HVAC system serviced? This information would help determine if your issue is similar to what I experienced or potentially something different.

Last service was completed at 106498km and they found nothing wrong with the automatic climate system at that time. Since then, I have noticed that the issue occurs more frequently when switching between different air circulation modes. The blower works fine at all speeds and I dont hear any unusual sounds. The error code shown is P0532 which according to the manual indicates low pressure in the AC system. When checking all vents, the rear ones seem to have significantly reduced airflow compared to the front. Would replacing the wiring connector solve my issue too, considering the error code is different from your case?

Having dealt with a similar situation, Im not convinced the wiring connector would solve your specific issue. The P0532 error code combined with reduced rear airflow points to a different problem than what I experienced in my VW. The symptoms you describe, especially the reduced flow through rear vents and issues when switching air circulation modes, strongly suggest a possible flap actuator malfunction in the air distribution system. This is different from my electrical connection issue, which showed different error codes. In my follow-up experience with the climate control system, I learned that low pressure codes often occur when there are problems with air distribution components, even when refrigerant levels are fine. The system diagnostics can misinterpret restricted airflow as a pressure issue. Before spending money on parts, I would recommend having a technician specifically check: The function of all air distribution flaps, The flap actuator mechanisms, The complete air ducting system for blockages The repair cost will likely be higher than my wiring fix, typically 200-400€ depending on which components need replacement. Make sure the workshop performs a full system diagnostics before and after any repairs to confirm the issue is resolved.

Thanks for all the input on my AC problem. I appreciate the detailed advice, and your points about the different error codes make a lot of sense. Based on the connection between the automatic climate system issues and the P0532 code, I can see why my case is different from the wiring problem you had. I will definitely have the workshop check the flap actuator and air circulation components first, rather than assuming its a simple wiring fix. Makes sense that restricted airflow could trigger false pressure readings in the system diagnostics. The cost estimate of 200-400€ for the repair helps set realistic expectations. Will schedule an appointment to have them inspect all the air distribution flaps and perform a complete climate control system check as suggested. One last question, did your workshop require the car for multiple days to complete the flap actuator diagnostics and repairs, or was it typically a same-day service?