What causes the Passat's remote key to fail to lock the doors?
2 Answers
Passat's remote key fails to lock the doors due to the following reasons: Remote lock malfunction: If you are using the remote key to lock the doors, it is likely that the remote lock is malfunctioning or the antenna of the car's remote transmitter has aged, causing the remote key to be ineffective. In this case, you can use the spare mechanical key to lock the doors. Strong magnetic field interference around the car: Another situation is the presence of strong magnetic field interference around the car. Since the smart key uses low-intensity radio waves, it cannot function properly under magnetic interference. Radio signal jammer: If there is a place where the remote lock frequently fails to work, the car owner should be wary of door jammers. Some criminals use a radio signal jammer that can emit electromagnetic waves at the same frequency as the lock signal, thereby blocking the electronic code of the car's central lock and causing it to temporarily malfunction.
I've also experienced issues with my Passat's remote not locking the doors, which is usually caused by a dead key fob battery or a faulty door sensor system. The coin cell battery in the remote key tends to deplete after about two years of use – when you press the button and get no response or only a weak flash, it's time to replace the battery. Another common reason is improperly closed doors; the Passat's sensors are highly sensitive, and even a slight gap in the rear doors or trunk can prevent the entire system from locking. Interference is another culprit – electronic devices or strong signal sources in the garage can disrupt the remote signal. Try moving the car to an open area and operating it there. My suggestion is to first check if all doors and the trunk are fully closed, then replace the battery (a new one costs just a few dollars). If the problem persists, it might be a damaged key module or an anti-theft system malfunction, requiring professional diagnosis at a 4S shop with specialized equipment. Regularly cleaning the key's contact points can help extend its lifespan.
