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friedhelm_lehmann10

VW Scirocco Sunblind Malfunction: Fix & Cost Guide

My VW Scirocco from 2012 has issues with the electric sun blind, it wont retract or extend anymore and seems completely stuck. The onboard computer shows an error message related to this interior accessory. Has anyone dealt with a similar problem and had it fixed? The UV protection function is important to me, so Id like to get it working again. Interested in hearing about repair experiences and potential costs before heading to a workshop.

4 comment(s)

konstantin_frost1

Had the exact same issue on my 2014 VW Golf GTI with the electric car sunshade. From my experience working on various VW models, this is a fairly common problem with their sunblind motors. After hearing some clicking noises when pressing the button, the car blind completely stopped working. The motor that controls the sun protection mechanism was completely dead. Like yours, my onboard computer showed an error message. Took it to a workshop specializing in VW electrical systems. They diagnosed it as a faulty sunshade motor unit. The entire repair, including parts and labor, cost me 330€. The fix took about 2 hours, they had to remove part of the headliner to access and replace the motor assembly. The new sun blind system has been working flawlessly for over a year now. Worth every cent since the UV protection really makes a difference during summer. Could you share: Does the sunshade make any noise when you try to operate it? When did the problem start? Have you noticed any water damage or leaks near the sunroof area? This information would help determine if your issue is similar to what I experienced.

friedhelm_lehmann10 (Author)

Last service was at 42820km and can confirm the electric sun visor started making strange noises about 2 weeks ago. When pressing the button, there is a faint clicking sound but the car sunshade stays completely stuck in position. No water damage visible around the sunroof area. The problem appeared gradually, first the sun blind would sometimes hesitate before moving, then it got increasingly slower until it stopped working entirely. The onboard error has been constant since the full failure. Good to know about the repair costs and time estimate. Did your workshop mention if there are any preventive measures to avoid future sun protection system failures?

konstantin_frost1

Thanks for those details. Yes, those symptoms sound exactly like what I experienced, the gradual decline in performance followed by complete failure is the classic sign of a failing sunshade motor in these VW models. The workshop actually explained that the main cause is regular wear and tear of the motor components, particularly in cars where the sun visor gets frequent use. The car interior temperature changes and prolonged UV exposure can also impact the motor lifespan. For preventive maintenance, they recommended: Regular lubrication of the sunblind tracks, Not forcing the sun blind if it shows resistance, Using the auto function rather than holding the button manually, Running the system at least monthly to prevent seizure Since my repair, I make sure to follow these guidelines and the car blind operates smoothly. The replacement motor comes with a 2-year warranty, which gives good peace of mind. Based on your mileage and symptoms, this really sounds like the same motor issue I had. The clicking noise is the motor trying but failing to engage, exactly like mine did. The repair cost I mentioned included a new genuine VW motor unit. Some shops offer aftermarket parts for around 220€, but I opted for OEM to ensure proper UV protection and reliability.

friedhelm_lehmann10 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed feedback. Those clicking sounds do match exactly what you described, and the gradual decline matches my experience perfectly. Your workshop costs seem reasonable considering its a genuine VW part. The preventive maintenance tips are particularly helpful, I had no idea about lubricating the tracks or the importance of regular operation of the window visor system. I think Ill book it in for repair next week since the interior accessory is important for me, especially with summer approaching. The 2-year warranty on the replacement motor gives me confidence its worth fixing properly rather than looking for cheaper alternatives that might compromise the sun protection function. One last question, did your workshop offer a loaner car during the 2-hour repair? Just trying to plan ahead since I need my car for work.

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