Totally dead tailgate

[andy7ven]

Hi everyone i'm new to this forum.

Just wondering if anyone else on here has had the problem that started with my GTI today?

I closed the boot when I started the car it said that the reverse light and rear fog light bulbs were defective. When I got home I went to check the bulbs only to find the boot won't open despite pressing the keyfob button and the door opening button. Also tonight I discover the rear wiper isn't working either.

I managed to open the boot with the release thing inside. When I opened it I could hear a faint ticking sound and the boot convenience light flickered a few times before going out!

[SteveP]

Sounds like the earth connection in the boot is broken, I can't remember where it is on the Mk5 but think it's behind the trim on the right hand side 

[andy7ven]

Thanks for your quick reply SteveP. I think its the wiring in the loom at the top left of the tailgate. I've found someone with the same problem on a  VW forum apparently it breaks if you use the boot to much  !

http://golfmkv.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1630487&postcount=1

[Garth]

Our old mk4 did this as well. Never did find the cause of the problem. Ended up selling the car and forgot all about it