Driver door opening is erratic

boardtc

I have a passat estate B6. The main driver's lock has given some trouble over the years, not being able to open it from the outside in cold weather typically. Nuy it typically ahs sorted itself out. But over the last few days I've not able to open it from the outside, all other doors are fine.

Has anyone come across this and what are my options? Any tips appreciated.

Thanks!

MrCostington

I wonder if it's the same problem I had a few weeks back, my lock was gummed up with dirt. A B6, getting on for 20 yo?

Here is my fix

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/118615930/#Comment_118615930

boardtc

Thanks for the idea! Mine is 08, happening with the fob. Incidentally the fob used to work form standard distance but even with new quality 2036 battery you have to be right beside it now, not even at the back of the car - so that might be related...

MrCostington

'08, is that not a B7? Anyway, I also have a B6 myself. Sorry now I understand your problem better, could be a central locking issue, is the door unlocking but not opening? The reason I ask, is that on my boot sometimes, if I have not opened it in a while, it will unlock but the seals kinda stick to it and it takes incredible force to open it, in fact it failed the NCT once for that. Try to apply some silicon lube to the seals.

But more likely it's a break in the wires from the A pillar to the door. Maybe they are just about to break fully and opening and closing the door makes or breaks the connection. I posted my fix on another forum if you like me to find it. Basically I pulled out the harness and replaced sections of the wires.

My fob fails the odd time too!

boardtc

B7 is from 2010+ - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat_(B6)

Well, it's not opening from outside, can be opened from inside so yes, unlocked. I've never heard of silicone lubricant, I'll have a look for it. Just apply to the seals around the lock on the door?

Redoing the door wiring is a bit over my head so fingers crossed on the lube!!

SchrodingersCat

I had an Audi B8 that I could have the same parts as the Passat B6.

Doors not unlocking and opening using the outside handle were a common and frustrating occurrence.

Normally the issue was with the Bowden Cable. It would become inflexible and stick causing it not to release properly. Lubricating it would work, but only a short while. They are cheap (~30e on eBay) so maybe that is worth a go?

boardtc

Thanks for info! I found it: https://www.ebay.ie/itm/165322238089

Might be worth a shot. Thanks!!

Lad in the garage might charge me 50 to put in - I am guessing.

boardtc

I called one mechanic I know and with the same information I posted here he said I need a new lock, 280 new, haven't found a used one yet https://www.findapart.ie/Car_Parts_VOLKSWAGEN_PASSAT_2011_2005_Diesel.html

alan partridge aha

Had 02 vw bora for years, door locks always gave trouble. However I used to buy from breakers never new.

I know the drivers door sometimes wouldn't open when unlocked so just turned the key in lock ( no remote locking on car)window opens and open from inside. Then it would work fine for ages.