rainerkeller2
VW Caddy Climate Control Failure: Sensor Issues Alert
4 comment(s)
rainerkeller2 (Author)
Just had my latest service done and experiencing the exact same symptoms you described. My Caddy shows error code P0531 when scanned. The fan does still work manually but temperature readings seem completely off. Workshop quoted 320€ just for the sensor diagnostics, which seems steep. The climate control issue started right after a particularly hot day, and the temperature display shows unusual numbers before going blank. Would be good to know if your wiring fix resolved these specific symptoms too, as Im hoping to avoid unnecessary parts replacement.
pauldunkel1
Thanks for those extra details about your Caddy's symptoms. This actually sounds quite different from my wiring issue, despite the similar symptoms at first glance. The P0531 code and erratic temperature readings strongly suggest a failing temperature sensor rather than a loose connection. In my case, the display never showed unusual numbers, it was just completely unresponsive. After dealing with various climate control problems, sensor replacement is likely your best path forward. That 320€ diagnostic fee does seem high though, most shops here charge about half that for sensor diagnostics. A few quick checks you can do: Monitor if temperature readings fluctuate with engine temperature, Check if the issue gets worse during high humidity, Test if manual climate control settings remain stable If these tests show inconsistent results, it really points to sensor failure. My wiring fix would not solve these specific symptoms since they indicate internal sensor malfunction rather than connection problems. Consider getting a second opinion from another VW specialist workshop, specifically for temperature sensor replacement. The sensor itself typically costs around 80-150€ plus labor.
rainerkeller2 (Author)
Thanks for sharing those helpful details about your similar situation. My P0531 error does match what you described, and Im relieved to hear it points to a sensor issue rather than something more complex. Ive done the checks you suggested: Temperature readings definitely fluctuate out of nowhere regardless of engine temp, Manual settings stay stable like you mentioned, No changes with humidity levels Based on this, Im going to look for another workshop for a second opinion on sensor replacement. The 320€ diagnostic fee did seem excessive compared to your numbers. Hopefully a direct sensor swap will resolve the climate control problems without needing extensive HVAC system work. Really appreciate the specific advice about what to check and the typical sensor costs. It helps to know what price range to expect when discussing repairs with different workshops.
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pauldunkel1
I had a similar climate regulation issue with my 2015 VW Golf. As someone with some experience working on VWs, I initially thought it was related to the temperature reading system. After getting the HVAC sensor checked at my workshop, they found that the main issue was actually a loose cable connection to the climate control module. The symptoms were identical, no response from the automatic climate control and AC system completely non-functional. The fix involved reconnecting and securing the wiring harness to the sensor unit, plus a system reset. Total cost was 95€ for diagnostics and repair. The sensor issues were resolved immediately after the repair. Before suggesting more specific solutions, could you share: Have you noticed any other electrical issues? Does the fan still work on manual settings? Which error codes exactly is the system showing? Are there any unusual noises when trying to activate the climate control? This kind of climate control failure can have multiple causes, so having these details would help narrow down if your Caddy has the same underlying problem mine had.