VW Polo Heater Fails: Flap Control Issue Disrupts Heat

I had a very similar issue with my 2014 VW Golf diesel last winter. Having some experience with basic car maintenance, I initially thought it was a major ventilation system problem. The symptoms matched exactly what you describe, the blower motor was running but the temperature regulation was off, and the climate control system wasnt performing as it should. The air distribution was clearly not working properly. Took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a faulty cable connection to the air distribution flap motor. The repair was straightforward and cost 95€, which included diagnostic time and parts replacement. They had it fixed within a couple hours. To help diagnose your specific case, could you share: Does the issue occur right after starting the car or after driving for a while? Are you getting any specific error codes? Does switching between different air distribution modes make any difference? Can you hear any unusual clicking sounds when changing temperature settings? These details would help determine if youre dealing with the same connection issue or potentially something else in the system.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Since my last service at 20000km (about 3 months ago), the issue started gradually getting worse. The problem shows up immediately after starting the car, and persists throughout the drive. Currently no clicking sounds when adjusting the HVAC unit settings. The error code reads P0532 which points to the climate control system. When switching between different modes, the air flow remains weak regardless of the setting, though slightly better in the defrost position. The ventilation system seems to struggle most when trying to direct air through the lower vents. The dashboard panel appears normal with no visible issues, but the inconsistent heating definitely impacts daily driving comfort. Would be helpful to know if the 95€ repair cost is still a realistic estimate for this type of issue.

Thanks for those additional details about your VW Polo. Based on the P0532 code and symptoms, this actually sounds more complex than my Golf issue, though there are similarities. The error code typically indicates a low refrigerant pressure sensor issue, which combined with your ventilation system problems suggests multiple potential failure points in the HVAC unit. The weak airflow across all settings is particularly concerning, as this wasnt present in my case. When my Golf had similar issues, the workshop found that the faulty connection was causing the blower motor to receive inconsistent signals. However, your case with the P0532 code likely means youre dealing with both an electrical and possibly a mechanical issue in the temperature regulation system. In terms of costs, youre probably looking at 150-200€ rather than the 95€ I paid, since the diagnostic process will need to address both the sensor and the air distribution problems. The good news is that these components are typically accessible without major dashboard disassembly. Before heading to the workshop, try checking if theres excessive windshield fogging, this could provide additional clues about whether the refrigerant system is involved. Also, does the temperature gauge show normal engine operating temperature? This could help rule out other potential causes.

The P0532 code and weak airflow information definitely helps narrow things down. I appreciate you sharing those repair cost estimates. After reading your response, I can see why my issue might need more extensive work than your Golf repair. Since posting, I checked the engine temperature gauge and it shows normal operating temperature. However, the windshield does fog up more than usual, which matches what you mentioned about potential refrigerant system problems. Given the combination of symptoms and that 200€ estimate, I think Ill schedule a workshop visit next week. The air distribution issues and inconsistent heating are becoming too annoying to ignore, especially since the heater core seems to be working but the air circulation system isnt delivering properly. Would you mind if I post an update here once I get the final diagnosis? It might help others with similar climate control system problems in their VWs.