QuestionA co-worker left her 99 VW Passat sunroof open during a downpour. The consol got soaked, and now all four windows and locks don't work. The fuses appear to be good. Do you have any idea what could be the problem? Thank you for any advice you might have!
AnswerHi Rick;
Sorry to hear about your problem. If you remove the trim panel over the sunroof control, it will probably have evidence of moisture, and if so, you will need to dry it out, and then you will need to go to the drivers' door, and remove the window switch pack to inspect for corrosion there too. Unfortunately, the wiring may have been compromised. The relays, and fuses in the Volkswagen "B4" Passat platform are rather robust, and do a decent job of protection, but they are engineered to accept current beyond their limit routinely. The fuses may be fine, but the relay for power to the interior accessories may be non- functioning. There are 2 rather large current relays. One is for the "power reduction" circuit, for starting the car, and the other is for "accessory" power. It sounds like the "accessory" power relay is toast. All of the relays are up inside the dash, behind the fuse panel, and behind the headlight switch. They are difficult, at best to get to, however, with an inspection mirror, and a relay position "map" you can easily locate them. I am certain of the name of the "power reduction" relay, it is sometimes called the "power supply" relay...number might be 409, or 110, in a Passat. I know the number for this one is 409 in a Jetta. The accessory relay, I'm not sure of the name, or the number. I'm sorry for that. However, if you consult the "Bentley's" repair manual, they will have it in print. I would definitely start there. I hope this helps you get a handle on the window problem, Rick. Good luck.
