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fabianfuchs1

VW Fox Power Windows Dead, Real Repair Costs Needed

Need input on window mechanism repairs, suspicious of mechanic quotes. My 2010 VW Fox diesel (126000km) has developed an issue where none of the power windows work anymore. The error code reader shows a window control fault. Based on research, it seems the window regulator might be the culprit. Last time at my mechanic they overcharged for a simple repair, so now I am hesitant. Has anyone here dealt with similar window motor problems on a Fox? What was the actual issue and roughly how much did the repair cost? Just want to have an idea before going to a shop.

4 comment(s)

svenfrank73

I had a similar power windows failure on my 2013 VW Polo TDI at 130000km. The window control module threw the same fault code, but the actual issue turned out different than expected. After inspection, the main window control switch in the driver door panel was the problem, not the regulator motor. The contacts inside the switch assembly had corroded, causing all windows to stop responding. This is a common failure point on VAG cars from that era. While researching online suggested bad window regulators, having dealt with this myself, I recommend getting the switch assembly checked first before replacing more expensive components. The repair involved removing the door panel and replacing just the master control switch unit. The job was straightforward, about 1 hour labor to get the door panel off and swap the switch. No need for complex electrical work or window mechanism repairs. Much simpler than replacing regulators or motors. This sounds very similar to your Fox symptoms. Get a proper diagnosis before agreeing to extensive repairs. Bad switch contacts often cause system-wide power window failures that mimic more serious issues.

fabianfuchs1 (Author)

Thanks for sharing that experience with the switch assembly. My Fox also had complete power windows failure last month, so I know the stress! The mechanic initially quoted for full regulator replacement, but I pushed for testing the switches first. Good thing I did, turned out just the driver door control module needed cleaning and one small part replaced. Did you ever have any more window control problems after getting it fixed? Also curious about the final cost for your switch repair if you remember. Helps to know what others paid for similar fixes.

svenfrank73

Good to hear back from you. After my switch repair last year, all the window controls have worked perfectly, no issues at all with the car window system. Sounds like you also avoided an unnecessary complete window regulator replacement, which would have cost much more. The total repair came to 200€, which included diagnosing the faulty window regulator symptoms and replacing the defective power window switch. Like your case, cleaning the contacts and replacing a small component in the switch housing fixed everything. The window track and mechanism were actually in good shape. The price was fair considering the expertise needed to properly diagnose the real issue rather than just replacing parts. Much better value than the initial quote for a full window regulator replacement that wasnt actually needed. Good to know others are catching on to checking the switches first. These control modules often get blamed on regulator motor problems when its really just corroded contacts in the switch assembly.

fabianfuchs1 (Author)

After dealing with the power window issues on my Fox, I took it to another mechanic for a second opinion. Smart move, this shop actually tested the window control module first instead of jumping straight to replacing the whole regulator. Saved me a bunch of money. They removed the door panel, cleaned the switch contacts, and replaced one small part in the control unit. Total bill came to 170€ for parts and labor. Way less than the 600€ the first place quoted for a complete window regulator replacement! Windows have been working perfectly for the past 3 months. Really glad I questioned that first quote and found a shop that properly diagnosed the window mechanism. The actual fix was much simpler than expected. Makes me more confident about getting second opinions on future repairs.

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