Roof Fault!

Wilbur · Oct 30, 2023

My 2017 California Ocean is garaged and for the past few days the main car battery has been on trickle charge. This morning I started the vehicle once I’d removed the battery charger. The overhead control panel flashed “roof fault. I selected open and nothing happened. Then icon No7 (status of the pop up roof) is also flashing when I revert to the main menu.

The roof isn’t open and pressing open and or close……nothing is happening. I spoke with VW Exeter (Yeomans) and said it could be the control panel, sensors, rams and parts alone £1500, plus labour equates to £2500 at worse and taking bookings for January 2024, no criticism intended.

I have read the various posts and options are to go to the hidden menus and clear the faults and this might rectify the problem. My understanding is the leisure battery powers the roof and it is showing 60% charged. I also noticed a circle with a G displaying on the main menu which isn’t something I’d noticed before.

Any recent experiences……..solutions………and ideas on experts locally to North Devon who will know how to diagnose and repair?

I have yet to go into the hidden menu and thought I’d digest the knowledge, experience and ideas of others as surely this isn‘t a one off?

WelshGas · Oct 30, 2023

Richard Quinn said:
My 2017 California Ocean is garaged and for the past few days the main car battery has been on trickle charge. This morning I started the vehicle once I’d removed the battery charger. The overhead control panel flashed “roof fault. I selected open and nothing happened. Then icon No7 (status of the pop up roof) is also flashing when I revert to the main menu.

The roof isn’t open and pressing open and or close……nothing is happening. I spoke with VW Exeter (Yeomans) and said it could be the control panel, sensors, rams and parts alone £1500, plus labour equates to £2500 at worse and taking bookings for January 2024, no criticism intended.

I have read the various posts and options are to go to the hidden menus and clear the faults and this might rectify the problem. My understanding is the leisure battery powers the roof and it is showing 60% charged. I also noticed a circle with a G displaying on the main menu which isn’t something I’d noticed before.

Any recent experiences……..solutions………and ideas on experts locally to North Devon who will know how to diagnose and repair?

I have yet to go into the hidden menu and thought I’d digest the knowledge, experience and ideas of others as surely this isn‘t a one off?

The G icon indicates charging from the engine alternator.
So was the engine running?
Leisure Batteries at 60%? The % reading is a guesstimate and not to be relied on. What is the voltage reading on the Control Panel? This is accurate.

Wilbur · Oct 30, 2023

WelshGas said:
The G icon indicates charging from the engine alternator.
So was the engine running?
Leisure Batteries at 60%? The % reading is a guesstimate and not to be relied on. What is the voltage reading on the Control Panel? This is accurate.

View attachment 115939

Huge thanks for your very quick response, much appreciated. I’m not with the van at the moment, but if the leisure battery is defective ie amber or red zone will that result in the roof error etc?

Azteccamper · Oct 30, 2023

Richard Quinn said:
Huge thanks for your very quick response, much appreciated. I’m not with the van at the moment, but if the leisure battery is defective ie amber or red zone will that result in the roof error etc?

I’d certainly be tempted to get all your batteries fully charged, reset centre console and try again. Good luck

WelshGas · Oct 30, 2023

Richard Quinn said:
Huge thanks for your very quick response, much appreciated. I’m not with the van at the moment, but if the leisure battery is defective ie amber or red zone will that result in the roof error etc?

If the Leisure Batteries are low it should ask for the engine to be started.

I think you should :-

Check hidden VW Disgnostic menu. Take note of any diagnostic codes and then clear codes.

1. Hold down the centre of the rotary button together with the menu button (button below with the squares on it)

2. You will get the hidden menu.

3. Rotate the rotary button to get to "VW diagnose" and select this by pressing on the centre of the rotary button.

4. If no errors are present it will display "no errors"

5. If Errors are present then a list of errors will appear

6. Press the centre of the rotary button again to delete all the errors

7. Repeat process above just to check that errors have dissapeared!

8. Re-configure the time and date if neccesary.

9. Switch Off Control Panel with L lower button. Wait 1 minute and then switch On using L lower button. Does roof work?

Any problems should be resolved assuming these are Electronic and not Mechanical.

Wilbur · Oct 30, 2023

Huge, huge thanks and I will let you know how I get on.

Paul_W · Nov 3, 2023

Richard Quinn said:
Huge, huge thanks and I will let you know how I get on.

How did you get on then, you can’t keep us hanging………

Wilbur · Nov 3, 2023

Update

Followed the instructions and code 1000 identified, but I was unable to reset the control panel. Disconnected the fuses and still unable to reset. I spoke with Links Automotive 01625 365411 who have previously replaced California sensors and they were adamant the fault was with the sensors. Too far to travel but a last resort.

My local VW Transport/Campervan Specialist mechanic in Barnstaple also tried to reset. They recommended Kernow Transporters Ltd also trading as Kernow Conversions. I spoke with Richard Milton and he was adamant it was defective sensors. He kindly agreed to repair the roof the following day at his new unit in Marazion. I’ve since seen previous posts on VWCC regarding KT Ltd.

Upon arrival, he checked the control panel which displayed “roof fault” and was adamant it was one or more sensors. Roof raised and he quickly identified one completely defective sensor, 2 with cracks and the 4th okay. I’ve attached a photo of the sensors

He replaced all 4 sensors without replacing the loom and 2 hours later the roof operated correctly. £275.00 and opposed to VW prices and a January 2024 service slot. He was surprised a 2017 Cali would have developed this fault and he could see the roof mechanism and its surroundings were in excellent order…….clean, dry and no debris.

My vehicle is kept in pristine condition and both garaged and left to the elements. Moisture, hot or cold weather resulted in the sensors becoming defective or I was unlucky.

Going forward and as a complete novice, I would occasional check or ask your service mechanic to check the sensors as it’s easy to see whether they are cracked and maybe go onto cause you a problem.

Much happinesses is now flowing through our household and my dear wife has commented I’m no longer grumpy…….phew!

WelshGas · Nov 3, 2023

Richard Quinn said:
Update

Followed the instructions and code 1000 identified, but I was unable to reset the control panel. Disconnected the fuses and still unable to reset. I spoke with Links Automotive 01625 365411 who have previously replaced California sensors and they were adamant the fault was with the sensors. Too far to travel but a last resort.

My local VW Transport/Campervan Specialist mechanic in Barnstaple also tried to reset. They recommended Kernow Transporters Ltd also trading as Kernow Conversions. I spoke with Richard Milton and he was adamant it was defective sensors. He kindly agreed to repair the roof the following day at his new unit in Marazion. I’ve since seen previous posts on VWCC regarding KT Ltd.

Upon arrival, he checked the control panel which displayed “roof fault” and was adamant it was one or more sensors. Roof raised and he quickly identified one completely defective sensor, 2 with cracks and the 4th okay. I’ve attached a photo of the sensors

He replaced all 4 sensors without replacing the loom and 2 hours later the roof operated correctly. £275.00 and opposed to VW prices and a January 2024 service slot. He was surprised a 2017 Cali would have developed this fault and he could see the roof mechanism and its surroundings were in excellent order…….clean, dry and no debris.

My vehicle is kept in pristine condition and both garaged and left to the elements. Moisture, hot or cold weather resulted in the sensors becoming defective or I was unlucky.

Going forward and as a complete novice, I would occasional check or ask your service mechanic to check the sensors as it’s easy to see whether they are cracked and maybe go onto cause you a problem.

Much happinesses is now flowing through our household and my dear wife has commented I’m no longer grumpy…….phew!

View attachment 116019

View attachment 116020

Glad you are sorted. I'm very surprised a 2017 vehicle suffered this. Most vehicles suffering this problem , mentioned on the Forum, have been T5/5.1 .
Another recommendation for Kernow Transporters.

GrumpyGranddad · Nov 3, 2023

Couple of dumb questions from me.
1. Where are the sensors located?
2. How did KT raise the roof to do the work?

WelshGas · Nov 3, 2023

GrumpyGranddad said:
Couple of dumb questions from me.
1. Where are the sensors located?
2. How did KT raise the roof to do the work?

1. Sensors are on Hydraulic rams, at both ends.
2. You apply a 12v supply directly to the electric hydraulic pump bypassing the roof positioning sensors/control.

The sensors show where the Hydraulic piston is in the ram, fully closed or fully open.

Paul_W · Nov 3, 2023

Richard Quinn said:
Update

Followed the instructions and code 1000 identified, but I was unable to reset the control panel. Disconnected the fuses and still unable to reset. I spoke with Links Automotive 01625 365411 who have previously replaced California sensors and they were adamant the fault was with the sensors. Too far to travel but a last resort.

My local VW Transport/Campervan Specialist mechanic in Barnstaple also tried to reset. They recommended Kernow Transporters Ltd also trading as Kernow Conversions. I spoke with Richard Milton and he was adamant it was defective sensors. He kindly agreed to repair the roof the following day at his new unit in Marazion. I’ve since seen previous posts on VWCC regarding KT Ltd.

Upon arrival, he checked the control panel which displayed “roof fault” and was adamant it was one or more sensors. Roof raised and he quickly identified one completely defective sensor, 2 with cracks and the 4th okay. I’ve attached a photo of the sensors

He replaced all 4 sensors without replacing the loom and 2 hours later the roof operated correctly. £275.00 and opposed to VW prices and a January 2024 service slot. He was surprised a 2017 Cali would have developed this fault and he could see the roof mechanism and its surroundings were in excellent order…….clean, dry and no debris.

My vehicle is kept in pristine condition and both garaged and left to the elements. Moisture, hot or cold weather resulted in the sensors becoming defective or I was unlucky.

Going forward and as a complete novice, I would occasional check or ask your service mechanic to check the sensors as it’s easy to see whether they are cracked and maybe go onto cause you a problem.

Much happinesses is now flowing through our household and my dear wife has commented I’m no longer grumpy…….phew!

View attachment 116019

View attachment 116020

Brilliant, what an outcome. Pleased for you!
Just goes to highlight the appalling service the VW dealer network offers.
Find yourself a trusted independent and entrust your pride and joy to them is my advice (for all vehicles not just Cali’s) you’ll save yourself a whole load of pain and cash. Unless it was a warranty repair, then maybe bite the bullet…….

Wilbur · Nov 3, 2023

I can only presume VW dealers must follow the VW policy and the pricing of repairs is set centrally, which includes designated hours. I presume they follow a documented process and in this case it’s the installation of the complete wiring loom and not just the sensors. This will mean the internal roof material is removed to expose the wiring. So if you want the part from VW you cannot just buy the sensors. I’m told the sensors only are provided by BMW?

No criticism of VW Exeter, but they only have 1 designated mechanic to deal with campervan issues such as the roof mechanism. I think VW need to change their policy and replicate the actions of KT Ltd. This will mean less wastage, quicker turnaround time and more happy VW customers.

I now use an independent VW specialist garage and they are all ex VW mechanics with huge depth of experience and aren’t governed by a central policy and process.

Andy Cook · Feb 9, 2024

Wilbur said:
My 2017 California Ocean is garaged and for the past few days the main car battery has been on trickle charge. This morning I started the vehicle once I’d removed the battery charger. The overhead control panel flashed “roof fault. I selected open and nothing happened. Then icon No7 (status of the pop up roof) is also flashing when I revert to the main menu.

The roof isn’t open and pressing open and or close……nothing is happening. I spoke with VW Exeter (Yeomans) and said it could be the control panel, sensors, rams and parts alone £1500, plus labour equates to £2500 at worse and taking bookings for January 2024, no criticism intended.

I have read the various posts and options are to go to the hidden menus and clear the faults and this might rectify the problem. My understanding is the leisure battery powers the roof and it is showing 60% charged. I also noticed a circle with a G displaying on the main menu which isn’t something I’d noticed before.

Any recent experiences……..solutions………and ideas on experts locally to North Devon who will know how to diagnose and repair?

I have yet to go into the hidden menu and thought I’d digest the knowledge, experience and ideas of others as surely this isn‘t a one off?

Hi Wilbur

Wilbur said:
My 2017 California Ocean is garaged and for the past few days the main car battery has been on trickle charge. This morning I started the vehicle once I’d removed the battery charger. The overhead control panel flashed “roof fault. I selected open and nothing happened. Then icon No7 (status of the pop up roof) is also flashing when I revert to the main menu.

The roof isn’t open and pressing open and or close……nothing is happening. I spoke with VW Exeter (Yeomans) and said it could be the control panel, sensors, rams and parts alone £1500, plus labour equates to £2500 at worse and taking bookings for January 2024, no criticism intended.

I have read the various posts and options are to go to the hidden menus and clear the faults and this might rectify the problem. My understanding is the leisure battery powers the roof and it is showing 60% charged. I also noticed a circle with a G displaying on the main menu which isn’t something I’d noticed before.

Any recent experiences……..solutions………and ideas on experts locally to North Devon who will know how to diagnose and repair?

I have yet to go into the hidden menu and thought I’d digest the knowledge, experience and ideas of others as surely this isn‘t a one off?

Hi Wilbur.

I too have a 2017 Ocean and live in South Devon.

My roof stopped working and although I have a warranty until 15th February, Yeomans have checked the problem, taken down the underside of the roof, reported that the wiring loom and the sensors are the cause of the problem which, according to VW warranty are deemed as wear and tear. I have paid Yeomans £550 for a new loom and sensor kit which may take 2 or 3 months to arrive. They have tried to encourage me to purchase a new controller at £950 as they suspect that the button is a bit wobbly and may cause a problem in the future.

Personally I think it's Yeomans that are a bit wobbly and welcome your advice.

Best wishes,

Andy Cook

andyinluton · Feb 9, 2024

Andy Cook said:
Hi Wilbur

Hi Wilbur.

I too have a 2017 Ocean and live in South Devon.

My roof stopped working and although I have a warranty until 15th February, Yeomans have checked the problem, taken down the underside of the roof, reported that the wiring loom and the sensors are the cause of the problem which, according to VW warranty are deemed as wear and tear. I have paid Yeomans £550 for a new loom and sensor kit which may take 2 or 3 months to arrive. They have tried to encourage me to purchase a new controller at £950 as they suspect that the button is a bit wobbly and may cause a problem in the future.

Personally I think it's Yeomans that are a bit wobbly and welcome your advice.

Best wishes,

Andy Cook

I'd like to know how they justify wear & tear on a wiring loom & sensors when they have no moving parts & nothing to wear.

Andy Cook · Feb 9, 2024

Every time the pinger goes off is a reminder that Yeomans are talking bo....ks!

I agree

Ch1pbutty · Feb 10, 2024

Cancel the parts order at Yeomans, and take the van to Kernow Conversions.

//
He (kernow) replaced all 4 sensors without replacing the loom and 2 hours later the roof operated correctly. £275.00 and opposed to VW prices and a January 2024 service slot. He was surprised a 2017 Cali would have developed this fault and he could see the roof mechanism and its surroundings were in excellent order…….clean, dry and no debris.
//

Cali Phillip · Feb 10, 2024

Ch1pbutty said:
Cancel the parts order at Yeomans, and take the van to Kernow Conversions.

//
He (kernow) replaced all 4 sensors without replacing the loom and 2 hours later the roof operated correctly. £275.00 and opposed to VW prices and a January 2024 service slot. He was surprised a 2017 Cali would have developed this fault and he could see the roof mechanism and its surroundings were in excellent order…….clean, dry and no debris.
//

Its a bit concerning for sure, non moving electronics should last longer than that unless there was a cost saving / change of supplier when they made the T6.

Andy Cook · Feb 13, 2024

Many thanks for the advice, that seems to be the advice from 5 Cali owners

Andy Cook · Feb 13, 2024

Ch1pbutty said:
Cancel the parts order at Yeomans, and take the van to Kernow Conversions.

//
He (kernow) replaced all 4 sensors without replacing the loom and 2 hours later the roof operated correctly. £275.00 and opposed to VW prices and a January 2024 service slot. He was surprised a 2017 Cali would have developed this fault and he could see the roof mechanism and its surroundings were in excellent order…….clean, dry and no debris.
//

Many thanks, just waiting to see if VW will honour their warranty and if they don't, off we go to Kernow!

Roof Fault!

Wilbur

WelshGas

Retired after 42 yrs and enjoying Life.

Wilbur

Azteccamper

WelshGas

Retired after 42 yrs and enjoying Life.

Wilbur

Paul_W

Wilbur

WelshGas

Retired after 42 yrs and enjoying Life.

GrumpyGranddad

WelshGas

Retired after 42 yrs and enjoying Life.

Paul_W

Wilbur

Andy Cook

andyinluton

Andy Cook

Ch1pbutty

Cali Phillip

Andy Cook

Andy Cook

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