Volkswagen Steering Wheel Controls Not Working

As a certified Volkswagen service technician, I have seen firsthand the frustration and inconvenience that can be caused by a malfunctioning steering wheel control.

This guide will help you quickly diagnose and resolve the issue so that you can get back on the road as soon as possible.

We will begin by discussing the common causes of steering wheel control failure. Then, we will walk you through a step-by-step troubleshooting process that will help you identify the specific problem and fix it.

By the end of this guide, you will have the knowledge and tools you need to get your steering wheel controls working again.

Why Volkswagen Steering Wheel Controls Not Working

Steering Wheel Control Module Failure

The steering wheel control module (SWM) is a computer that controls the various functions of the steering wheel, such as the audio system, cruise control, and Bluetooth. If the SWM fails, it can cause the steering wheel controls to stop working.

Steering Wheel Wiring Harness Damage

The steering wheel wiring harness connects the SWM to the steering wheel. If the wiring harness is damaged, it can cause the steering wheel controls to stop working.

Steering Wheel Column Switch Failure

The steering wheel column switch is a mechanical switch that sends signals to the SWM. If the steering wheel column switch fails, it can cause the steering wheel controls to stop working.

Steering Wheel Clockspring Failure

The steering wheel clockspring is a flexible metal ring that connects the steering wheel to the steering column. If the steering wheel clockspring fails, it can cause the steering wheel controls to stop working.

How to Troubleshoot: Volkswagen Steering Wheel Controls Not Working

Your Volkswagen’s steering wheel controls are a convenient way to adjust the volume, change the radio station, and answer calls without taking your hands off the wheel. But what happens when the steering wheel controls stop working?

There are a few possible causes for this problem, and the solution will vary depending on the cause. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot Volkswagen steering wheel controls that are not working.

Step 1: Check the fuses

The first thing you should do is check the fuses for the steering wheel controls. These fuses are usually located in the fuse box under the hood.

To check the fuses, you’ll need a fuse puller. Once you have the fuse puller, open the fuse box and locate the fuses for the steering wheel controls. The fuses are usually labeled Steering Wheel Controls or SWC.

Remove each fuse and inspect it for damage. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.

Once you’ve replaced the fuse, start your car and test the steering wheel controls. If the controls are still not working, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Check the wiring

The next step is to check the wiring for the steering wheel controls. The wiring is usually located in the steering column.

To check the wiring, you’ll need a voltmeter. Once you have the voltmeter, turn off the ignition and disconnect the negative battery cable.

Next, use the voltmeter to test the voltage at the connector for the steering wheel controls. The connector is usually located on the back of the steering wheel.

If there is no voltage at the connector, the wiring is damaged and will need to be repaired or replaced.

Once you’ve repaired or replaced the wiring, reconnect the negative battery cable and start your car. Test the steering wheel controls to make sure they are working properly.

Step 3: Reset the steering wheel controls

If the steering wheel controls are still not working, you can try resetting them. To reset the steering wheel controls, you’ll need to follow the instructions in your Volkswagen’s owner’s manual.

Once you’ve reset the steering wheel controls, start your car and test them. If the controls are still not working, you may need to take your car to a qualified Volkswagen mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.

Conclusion

Steering wheel controls are a convenient feature, but they can be a pain when they stop working. By following the steps in this article, you can troubleshoot Volkswagen steering wheel controls that are not working and get them back up and running in no time.

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