VW Atlas Key Fob & Door Lock Systems Dead After Shop

Had a similar issue with my 2017 VW Tiguan. The central locking system completely stopped responding, matching these exact symptoms. The root cause was a faulty connection in the door lock control module located in the fuse box under the dashboard. The wiring harness had worked loose over time, causing intermittent failures before complete system shutdown. The car alarm and remote locking systems share this module, which explains why both functions failed simultaneously. This requires specialized diagnostic equipment to properly identify the fault codes. While checking fuses is a good start, the issue often lies deeper in the security system wiring. In my case, the repair involved removing door panels to access and replace corroded wiring connectors, plus reprogramming the central locking module. A certified shop needed about 3-4 hours for the complete repair. This was not a quick fix but also not a severe mechanical issue, just tedious access to components. The car security system worked flawlessly after proper repair. Would recommend having it properly diagnosed rather than trying quick fixes, as incorrect repairs to the car alarm and locking systems can cause more extensive electrical problems.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Tiguan door locks issue. My Atlas had almost identical symptoms last year with the central locking giving up completely. The certified shop also found it was related to the security module wiring in my case. Curious, do you remember roughly what the repair cost came to? Also wondering if youve had any other keyless entry or door lock problems since getting it fixed?

The total repair came to 95€ for fixing the faulty cable connections in the security system module. Since having the wiring issue corrected at the certified shop, the central locking and keyless entry have worked perfectly, no more problems at all. The technician discovered a loose connector in the fuse box area that was causing the door locks to malfunction. Once they properly secured and cleaned the connections, the entire security system came back to life. It was a straightforward fix despite initially seeming like a major electrical problem. For anyone else facing similar issues, having proper diagnostic testing done is worth it rather than trying quick fixes. A failing central locking system often points to wiring or connection problems rather than the actual door locks themselves.

Thanks everyone for the helpful replies. Took my Atlas to a certified shop yesterday after seeing these responses. Turned out my issue was also electrical, corroded wiring connections near the fuse box were messing with the central locking system. The repair took about 3 hours and cost 280€, which included full diagnostic testing and cleaning all the security system connections. The mechanic found several spots where water had gotten in and damaged the wiring harness connected to the locking mechanism. Everything works perfectly now, the key fob responds instantly and the keyless entry is back to normal. Really glad I got it properly diagnosed instead of going back to that sketchy shop that probably would have replaced parts unnecessarily. Thanks again for steering me in the right direction with this. Would have spent way more time and money troubleshooting without your advice!