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1999 1.6 - Central Locking not working - old_git
First it was my son's Bora, now it's my daughter's Polo!!!

The remote control activates/deactivates the (VW Cat 1 fitted) alarm OK, but doesn't have any effect on the central locking. I can lock/unlock the doors with the key OK, but doesn't have any effect on the central locking. No whirring, nothing. Which also means the petrol flap stays locked.

First suspect is the fuse, but too dark to check - will wait until tomorrow. Any other suspects?

{made use of drop down menus that weren't previously available when this post was first written}

Edited by Dynamic Dave on 31/12/2008 at 00:21

Polo Central Locking not working - elekie&a/c doctor
I would suggest check the electro/pneumatic pump that lives in the offside rear boot well ,below rear lamp assy.It is possible it is full of water.If you are lucky it is possible to prise off the plastic cover,dry it out & get it going again.It is possible to release the petrol flap manually by pulling back the locking pin by hand from inside inner wing trim.
Polo Central Locking not working - old_git
Many thanks for the tip. Will try it tomorrow morning and report back. Thanks again.
Polo Central Locking not working - old_git
A big thank you to e&a. As suggested I opened the plastic cover and there was water in the unit. Dried out the v v small amount that there was and then noticed (with some horror) that the circuit board was rusty!!! Cleaned that up, plugged the electrics back in. Voila. The reassuring whirring noise of a working central locking mechanism.

However, I don't feel too enamoured towards VW. The unit is high up in the (waterproof) boot surrounded by plastic. How on earth did it get wet? That's two problematic VW's in our house in one weekend. The wife's right, we've NEVER had a problem with a japanese car (Her accord hasn't missed a beat in over 9 years).

Thanks again to e&a.
Polo Central Locking not working - gsb
The search function on HJ is marvellous. My daughters 99 1.4cl had exactly the same symptoms. Took cover off pump, no sign of water. Got pump off ebay and I now have a happy daughter again.

Thanks e&a and old-git
1999 1.6 - Central Locking not working - Rachael 28

Wondering if this is the same problem I have got?

I have an (X) plate VW Polo ESTATE, yes they did a few. It has central locking in the old style version, if that makes sense? I have to use the key in the door lock to open/lock the doors but they should all lock together but don't.......

I hear that whining noise but the buttons don't all go down/come up.

The rear passenger door button was broken before I purchased it but is stuck in the down position and I can't get the door open at all.

It's due an MOT in April and I need to know how much cost involved please.

I will add I am an educated 'female' who has worked on a few cars but many years ago, so I'm not your average 'blond', lol.

Any help would be appreciated.

1999 1.6 - Central Locking not working - elekie&a/c doctor

If you can hear a whirring noise,then it is possible the pump is working.A break/fracture in the plastic pipework or a fault with one of the door/boot/fuel flap actuators is enough to stop the system functioning.

1999 1.6 - Central Locking not working - Rachael 28

Where can I check the plastic pipework? How do I access it?

1999 1.6 - Central Locking not working - elekie&a/c doctor

Not easy.It runs along the floor pan under the carpet and seats and into the door pillars.If you can get the rear door open manually,then that is enough for the mot.