Screen at Fault in our Client’s Golf
Back in 1976, the introduction of the VW Golf marked a new chapter in automotive history. Since then, the Golf has become one of the most popular cars and has developed a cult following.
Over the years, it has undergone numerous updates, transforming into a sleek, well-performing vehicle known for its safety and excellent driving experience.
The latest Volkswagen Golf models come with state-of-the-art technology. However, these advanced systems can sometimes lead to technical difficulties, particularly within its network of wiring, modules, and systems.
Recently, a client brought in their 2017 Golf GTI to our garage. It was plagued by a malfunctioning infotainment screen, which left the display blank, disabling the radio and other advanced features.
This left the client unable to use the following infotainment system features:
- Navigation
- Vehicle settings
- Podcasts
- Radio
- Music playlists
- Smartphone linkage
- Bluetooth
- And more…
Consequently, our client was left with only the sound of the VW’s engine for company—admittedly not unpleasant, but nothing beats cruising with your favourite tunes or an engaging podcast.
Luckily, they’d chosen to visit our VW specialists at Fergies.
With decades of experience handling all VW models, we’re well-equipped to resolve any issues your vehicle might have.
Are you experiencing problems with your Volkswagen’s infotainment system? Call our experts today for a quality, first-time fix.
Finding the VW Golf Infotainment System Fault
At Fergies, our VW experts possess the experience, knowledge, and technical skills necessary to troubleshoot any infotainment system issue your vehicle has.
As VW specialists, we use an in-depth 15-step diagnostic process to identify the root cause of any problem. Our thorough approach allows us to provide you with a first-time fix, no matter your vehicle’s issues.
To start, our technicians wanted to put the client’s vehicle through a test drive to experience the problem the Golf was experiencing firsthand.
Once our experts confirmed the issues, they used the ODIS VW specialist diagnostic tool to scan for error codes.
During the diagnostic scan, they discovered two critical error codes:
- U1123 – Indicating a data bus connection issue.
- U1054 – Pointing to a communication breakdown between the Gateway Control and Information Electronics 1 Control Unit.
These error codes confirmed the Golf’s infotainment unit was non-operational, which was consistent with the blank screen reported by the client.
While understanding error codes may seem complex, to our experts, they’re crucial for accurately diagnosing any issues your vehicle has.
Determined to resolve the issue without replacing the unit prematurely, our technicians consulted Volkswagen service bulletins to see if there was any information on this problem.
As your local independent VW specialist, our experts have access to the same technical information as the main Volkswagen dealerships. This allows us to provide dealership-quality servicing at better than dealer value.
Unfortunately, the bulletins didn’t provide any additional information on the VW infotainment issue.
With no bulletins to guide them, our specialists removed the infotainment unit for further inspection. They reviewed the live and earth feeds, which were in working order, and then deployed an oscilloscope to assess the CANBUS network.
Using an oscilloscope isn’t a common practice in many garages, but at Fergies, we like to provide a thorough diagnostic and deliver the highest-quality service.
During the oscilloscope testing, our experts found that the CANBUS network was functioning correctly, leading them to deduce that the problem was likely caused by an internal fault in the infotainment unit itself.
With the VW infotainment system issue identified, our experts were confident they could get the system back up and running.
Replacing the Infotainment Unit
Our technicians called our client to discuss the findings and the necessary repairs. At Fergies, we believe in being honest and transparent with you from start to finish. We only begin working on your vehicle when you say so.
You remain in full control throughout the entire process.
After exploring every possible alternative to avoid replacing the entire unit, it became evident that the VW infotainment unit needed to be replaced entirely. Our experts looked at every other option, but unfortunately, there were no other ways to fix the problem.
Our specialists sourced a genuine VW 5F Infotainment unit to ensure the client’s vehicle received the best quality.
At Fergies, our experts only use genuine VW or top-grade alternative parts for your vehicle. This allows us to provide your car with the highest quality, ensuring it continues to perform at its best.
Our expert technicians removed the malfunctioning unit and installed the new one. Installing the new infotainment unit involved more than just replacing it; it required precise re-coding, a specialist task that our technicians are highly experienced in.
After the installation and re-coding, the VW Golf was thoroughly tested to ensure everything was functioning as it should. Thankfully, everything worked perfectly.
Our client was particularly pleased to have their VW Golf’s infotainment system fully operational again. They could now listen to their favourite songs without any interruptions.
One area the client was pleasantly surprised by was our turnaround time. We managed to identify and solve the problem far quicker than the main VW dealership could. This is largely because of our systematic 15-step diagnostic process, which allows us to find problems during your first visit.
You’re in Safe Hands at Fergies
Ensuring the VW Golf’s essential features, such as the parking camera, vehicle settings, radio, and navigation, were fully operational was crucial. We wanted our client to have their Volkswagen back in complete working order.
At Fergies, our expert technicians are VW specialists. We’ve cared for all VW models, and there isn’t a problem our experts haven’t solved. Whether you need regular servicing or something more complex, we can help.
As your local independent VW specialist, all of our work keeps your VW warranty intact, giving you peace of mind that your vehicle is in safe hands.
Need help with your Volkswagen infotainment system? Don’t wait around; the issue might worsen.
Call Fergies today for all your Volkswagen needs.
