VW Scirocco Cruise Control Mysteriously Dies

The cruise control failure you describe matches what I experienced with a 2012 VW Golf GTI. The speed sensor was sending incorrect signals, causing the cruise control to disengage unexpectedly. Initially suspected the brake light switch near the pedal, but diagnostic testing revealed a damaged speed sensor wiring harness. The connector had corroded, disrupting signals to both the speedometer and cruise control. The repair involved: Testing the pedal switch connections, Checking all fuses related to cruise control, Replacing the speed sensor harness, Recalibrating the steering wheel controls This was a moderate repair that required specialized diagnostic equipment. The issue is common in several VW models from that generation. The speed sensor problem can worsen over time and potentially affect other systems like ABS if left unrepaired. Would recommend having a shop check specifically for speed sensor connectivity and wiring integrity. The fault codes should point directly to either the sensor or its wiring harness. This type of issue rarely fixes itself and typically requires component replacement.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the speed sensor repair. My cruise control issue turned out to be similar, but in my case it was also related to a worn clock spring in the steering wheel. The mechanic found this while checking the wiring harness you mentioned. Did you have any issues pop up since the repair? Also curious what the total cost was for fixing your speed sensor, helps to know what kind of price range to expect if the same repair is needed on other VWs.

Just had a follow-up visit with my mechanic last week, and happy to report the cruise control hasnt given me any trouble since the initial repair. The speed sensor wiring issue was fixed for 95€, which covered both parts and labor. A pretty reasonable price considering the diagnostic work needed. The clock spring you mentioned is actually a common failure point in these VWs, glad your mechanic caught that. When the clock spring goes bad, it can affect multiple steering wheel functions beyond just cruise control. One tip: after any repair involving the throttle position sensor or related components, its worth checking if all dashboard lights are working normally. Sometimes these repairs can highlight other small issues that need attention. The way your mechanic diagnosed both problems shows they really know these systems. Much better than my first mechanic who kept replacing the pedal switch without fixing the actual issue.

Follow-up after getting it fixed: Just got back from my trusted mechanic who properly diagnosed and fixed the cruise control issue. The worn clock spring turned out to be the main culprit, along with a damaged wiring connector near the throttle position sensor. Total repair cost came to 280€ including parts and labor. The mechanic explained how the clock spring deterioration was causing intermittent signal loss to the steering wheel controls. Unlike my previous shop that only checked basic fuses, this one did a complete diagnostic sweep that caught both issues. They also cleaned the throttle body while everything was apart, a nice touch that improved overall response. The cruise control now works perfectly, and the steering wheel buttons feel more responsive too. No more error codes showing up on the dash. Definitely worth getting a second opinion from a shop that actually knows these systems properly. Just sharing my experience here since it might help others with similar VW cruise control problems. Main lesson learned: find a mechanic who checks the entire system rather than just swapping parts.