VW Passat Key Fob and Remote Access Issues Fixed Here

Had a similar antenna issue with my 2018 VW Arteon Hybrid. The symptoms matched exactly, remote key functions became unreliable and needed physical key insertion to start. The fm antenna and related connections were indeed the culprit. The antenna repair involved checking multiple components: Main antenna mount in the rear bumper, Cable harness connections, Control module interface, Ground connection points The root cause was corroded wiring at the antenna mount connection point, allowing moisture to interfere with signal reception. The repair required: 1. Complete antenna replacement 2. New waterproof connector installation 3. Testing signal strength at various distances 4. Clearing stored error codes This was not a minor issue since it affected multiple vehicle systems including: Keyless entry, Push button start, Radio reception, Security system The problem progressively worsens if left unattended, potentially leading to complete keyless system failure. Worth noting the antenna repair resolved all remote access issues and restored normal functionality to both key fobs. Most VW models from this generation share similar antenna system designs, so diagnostic steps should be comparable for your Passat.

Thanks for the detailed breakdown on the antenna replacement fix. This exactly mirrors what my Passat is doing right now. I will definitely have the antenna mount and connections checked first. Did you remember roughly what the total repair cost was? Also curious if you had any recurring signal interference or key fob issues since the fix? Want to make sure this solves the problem long-term before committing to the repair. Looking back, were there any early warning signs with the car radio or remote functions before it got bad enough to need physical key use?

Just had my Arteon back from the shop yesterday after dealing with this exact antenna issue. Total repair came to 95€, they found a faulty cable connection at the antenna mount that was causing all the signal interference. Much simpler fix than I initially feared. Since the repair, all remote functions are working perfectly again. The key fob now responds consistently even from a greater distance, and the car radio reception is noticeably clearer too. No recurring issues at all. Looking back, there were some subtle hints before things got really bad. The car radio would occasionally get fuzzy in areas where it used to be clear, and the key fob needed to be closer to the car than usual to work. But I ignored these early signs until the system required physical key insertion. The repair shop confirmed that catching antenna connection problems early can prevent more extensive damage to the system. Worth having it checked soon while the fix is still relatively straightforward.

Just got back from the mechanic and wanted to share my experience. The antenna repair was straightforward and cost 120€ total. They found water damage in the antenna mount causing the signal interference issues. The shop showed me the corroded connector, it was pretty obvious why the key fob stopped working properly. They installed a new antenna with better waterproofing and tested all remote functions thoroughly. Already notice a huge improvement. Key fob works from twice the distance now and the car radio signal is much clearer. Definitely worth fixing before it got worse and caused more extensive damage. Much better experience than my last repair visit. The mechanic was upfront about the diagnosis and kept the cost reasonable. Really glad I checked here first to understand the likely cause rather than letting them chase other expensive solutions.