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emilwinkler1

VW Taos Heating System Troubles, Fix & Cost Guide

Looking for help with my 2021 VW Taos heating issues. The ventilation system is acting up with notably low heat output. The temperature regulation isnt working properly and I keep getting an error message. My mechanic suggested it might be the defrost air distribution flap, but I want to hear from others who had similar problems. Has anyone dealt with this specific heating issue? What was the actual problem and how was it fixed? Most concerned about potential dashboard panel removal and repair costs. Any experiences with warranty coverage for this type of repair would also be helpful.

4 comment(s)

jonasswift5

Had a similar issue with my 2019 VW Tiguan last winter. I have some experience working on cars but mainly stick to basic maintenance. The climate control system showed similar symptoms, poor temperature regulation and inconsistent air distribution through the HVAC unit. After multiple attempts to diagnose it myself, I brought it to my regular workshop. They found the root cause was a faulty wiring connection to the air distribution motor that controls the defrost flap. The repair involved accessing the connections behind the dashboard panel, but they didnt need to remove the entire dash. Total cost was 95€ for replacing and properly securing the cable connection. The whole job took about 2 hours. Before suggesting more specific fixes, could you provide: Does the error message show any specific code? Are all air vents affected or just certain ones? Does the air circulation mode still work normally? Have you noticed any unusual sounds when adjusting temperature? This info would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced. The symptoms sound very similar, but VW models can have different HVAC unit configurations.

emilwinkler1 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. My VW just had its service at 23731km last month. After reading your reply, I checked the air circulation mode and noticed it only works intermittently. The error code shows P0532. All vents are affected, and theres a slight clicking sound from behind the dashboard panel when switching between temperature settings. The blower motor seems to work fine, but the air distribution is definitely inconsistent. Windshield fogging has become a real problem, especially during temperature changes. Based on your experience, Im wondering if I should have them check the wiring first before considering more extensive repairs. Would you recommend getting this documented by the dealer since its still under warranty, or should I try the local VW specialist who did my last service?

jonasswift5

Thanks for those details. The symptoms you describe are definitely more complex than what I experienced with my Tiguan. While my issue was just a loose connection, your P0532 code points to a different problem, its typically related to the AC pressure sensor circuit. The clicking sound and intermittent air circulation, combined with the windshield fogging issues, suggest there might be multiple components involved. When my blower motor was working but air distribution was inconsistent, it was fairly straightforward. Your case sounds more like a system-wide temperature regulation problem. Since your car is still under warranty, absolutely take it to the dealer. My repair was simple because it was just wiring, but your symptoms indicate potential issues with both the HVAC controls and sensors. The dealer can properly document everything and handle any warranty claims. The combination of: P0532 error code, Intermittent air circulation, Clicking from dashboard panel, System-wide vent issues, Windshield fogging problems suggests this isnt a simple wiring fix like mine was. Get it checked under warranty before considering independent repairs.

emilwinkler1 (Author)

Thanks for the input. After considering all the feedback, I decided to schedule an appointment with the VW dealer tomorrow to get this documented under warranty. The clicking sound behind the dashboard panel has actually gotten worse since my last post, and the windshield fogging is becoming a safety concern during my morning commute. The P0532 error code combined with the air distribution issues definitely seems more complex than just a wiring problem. While I appreciate the suggestion about checking connections first, the multiple symptoms point to a bigger problem with the heater core or temperature regulation system. Will update once the dealer diagnoses the actual issue. Hopefully the blower motor and dashboard panel work wont be too extensive, but at least warranty should cover the repairs. Really glad I checked here before letting my local shop start taking things apart.

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