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friedrichhofmann10

Amarok Power Windows Dead, Complete Repair Guide

Looking for advice on my 2012 Amarok window problem. The power windows stopped working completely and the car shows a related error code. Pretty sure the window regulator might be bad, but before heading to a shop I want to know what to expect. Has anyone dealt with a similar window mechanism failure? Interested in repair costs and whether you needed a full door panel removal or just the window control unit replaced. Any tips on confirming if its actually the regulator before spending money on repairs? The windows are stuck and wont move at all in either direction. Thanks for any insights on fixing this issue.

4 comment(s)

valentinadunkel1

Had a similar issue with my 2010 Tiguan last summer. I have decent experience working on VWs but window control systems can be tricky. The symptoms were identical, complete power window failure across all controls. Initially thought it was the window regulator, but after diagnosis it turned out to be a faulty main power window switch in the driver door. The window control module was sending incorrect signals. Took it to my regular workshop where they confirmed the issue through diagnostic testing. They had to remove the door panel to access and replace the window switch assembly. Total repair cost was 200€ including parts and labor. Before spending money on repairs, you can try a few basic checks: Test all window switches individually, Listen for motor noise when pressing switches, Check fuses related to power windows, Try operating windows with key in different positions Would help to know: Are all windows affected or just one? Does the window switch feel loose or different when pressing? Any unusual sounds when attempting operation? Have you checked the fuse box? The window regulator might not be the culprit, often its the switch or control module. Let me know these details and I can provide more specific guidance.

friedrichhofmann10 (Author)

Last service was at 134000km and recently noticed this window track issue. You make some good points about checking the power windows separately and testing individual switches. After trying your suggestions, I found out only the driver side window is affected, with no response or sound when using the main window control panel. The switch feels normal but completely dead, no clicking or motor noise at all. Already checked all relevant fuses which appear intact. Your experience with the Tiguan switch replacement is helpful to know. Going to have a shop verify if its the window regulator or just the control module before any major work.

valentinadunkel1

Thanks for those extra details, sounds very similar to what I experienced with my Tiguan. Since only your driver side window is affected and theres zero response from the switch, Im even more convinced its likely the same window control module issue I dealt with rather than the window regulator. In my case, the lack of any motor noise was the key indicator. When the window regulator fails, you usually still hear some clicking or struggling from the motor. The complete silence points to an electrical rather than mechanical issue. The window mechanism in these VW models is pretty robust, but the control modules can be sensitive to moisture and electrical wear. My repair started with the shop doing a full diagnostic scan which pinpointed the faulty switch module. Replacing just that component fixed everything, no need for a complete window regulator replacement which would have cost significantly more. Given the similar symptoms, Id suggest: Get a proper diagnostic scan first, Have them check the wiring connections at the control module, Consider just replacing the switch assembly initially, Only look at the full window regulator if those steps dont resolve it The repair should be straightforward for any shop familiar with VW door panel removal. My final cost was that 200€ but prices can vary based on parts availability.

friedrichhofmann10 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed feedback. After checking everything you suggested, its definitely an electrical issue rather than mechanical since theres zero response from the window motor. Really helpful to hear about your similar control module problem, makes sense why theres no sound at all when pressing the switches. Think I'll get the diagnostic scan done first instead of jumping straight to replacing the whole window regulator assembly. Called a local VW specialist and they quoted around 180€ for diagnosis and switch replacement if thats the issue. Much better than what I initially feared paying for a full door panel and regulator motor swap. Will schedule that in next week and update once I know exactly what they find with the window control unit. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, helped narrow down the likely problem and saved me some unnecessary worry about more extensive repairs.

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