Finding reliable information on VCDS releases, especially older ones like 14.10, can be tricky. Reddit often becomes a valuable resource for car enthusiasts seeking advice and downloads. This post details a successful auxiliary heater repair on a 2004 UK Volkswagen Golf Mk5 2.0 TDI 140 DSG with dual-zone Climatronic, using VCDS for diagnostics. While we won’t directly address downloading VCDS 14.10 from Reddit due to potential licensing issues, this repair highlights the diagnostic power of VCDS.
Diagnosing the Fault with VCDS
The auxiliary heater malfunctioned, triggering a “00361 – Heater Element for Auxiliary Heater (Z35) 014 – Defective” fault code in VCDS. Output tests revealed limited functionality, with the heater only reaching approximately 650 Watts, indicating a faulty heating element. This diagnostic capability of VCDS was crucial in pinpointing the problem.
Accessing and Removing the Heater
Accessing the heater in a right-hand drive (RHD) vehicle presented a challenge due to a plastic obstruction (glove box lower support). While removing the entire dashboard was an option, a less invasive approach involved carefully bending this plastic piece. Unfortunately, the plastic snapped during the process, but it was easily repaired later with glue. Simultaneously, a faulty V158 left-hand temperature flap motor was addressed with contact cleaner.
Repairing the Heater Element
Five resistors were visible on the heater unit. Based on the assumption that the left-hand element was faulty, the corresponding left-hand resistor was targeted. Careful soldering and reflowing the resistor’s inboard connection proved successful. A temporary connection confirmed the fix, with the heater drawing over 900 Watts during the output test and the fault code clearing in VCDS.
Auxiliary Heater Operational Requirements
The auxiliary heater’s operation depends on several factors:
- Sufficient Battery Voltage: The heater won’t operate with the engine off.
- Coolant Temperature: The coolant temperature must be below 75°C.
- HVAC Request: The ‘ECON’ button must be off, and the Climatronic system must request heat. This request relies on the temperature flap motor positions rather than the set temperature. For example, the heater might activate at 0°C with a 16°C setting but remain off at 20°C with the same setting. The behavior with manual AC systems isn’t covered here.
Conclusion
Successfully repairing the auxiliary heater demonstrates the diagnostic power of tools like VCDS. While obtaining specific versions like VCDS 14.10 from unofficial sources like Reddit carries risks, this example showcases how essential VCDS is for diagnosing and resolving complex automotive issues. Remember to always use legitimate software and consult official documentation. This fix ensured a warm cabin for the winter, highlighting the importance of a functioning auxiliary heater. The next challenge involves tackling a thermostat replacement, known for its complexity.
