Draughty driver’s footwell
Q I have a 2012 Volkswagen Passat CC 2.0 TDI and there’s a problem with the heater (climate control). I am getting a cold draft in the driver’s footwell that seems to come from the front bottom edge of the dashboard. I have had a look around but cannot find a possible source. I believe that the flaps are computercontrolled motor-driven units. I have a Foxwell scanner but cannot see if the flaps can be initialised with it. I have attempted to reinitialise the flaps by pressing the A/C button together with the face vent button, but this does not work.
Also, the reversing lights are no use when reversing into a dark area. Is there any way that I can improve the light output without upsetting the lamp monitor? I would prefer not to fit separate lamps, if possible. Mike Thompson
A You do not mention which Foxwell scanner you have, but you would need something like the Foxwell NT644 Pro to access the heater control functions. Using the Foxwell NT644 Pro or a VAG dedicated scanner, the climate control system can be interrogated and this may give further information.
The heater flap actuators are a common failure point. The fresh air actuator can be reached after removing the glovebox. If this has failed while part-open it can be difficult to replace due to the gears not being in the correct position for removal (fresh air mode). In this case, slight force will be needed to undo it. It is also possible that the draught is from another source, so I would check the bulkhead grommets to ensure none have been displaced, allowing outside air into the footwell.
The low illumination of the reversing light on the CC is a common complaint. The lamp uses a 6W H6W bulb, which is a small halogen bulb with a bayonet fixing. Many owners have increased the intensity of the reversing light by fitting a Cree LED replacement bulb such as the one on this website: http://bit.
ly/2gg1nyp. This will increase the intensity of the light output without affecting the current draw from the system. Not having used this website, this is only a suggestion and not a recommendation.