Alarm Problems

About a year ago I started having a problem with the alarm on my 2001 Passat. It would go off randomly while parked. As it was under warranty I took it back to the dealer and after more than one visit the problem was eventually resolved.

But guess what - it's back. The alarm went off the other night about every 2 minutes. Double locking wouldn't turn it off. Leaving the driver door unlocked didn't work because it locked itself after about a minute (this happened more than once). Resolution was to disconnect battery overnight.

That was Sunday. Since then it's been fine, but last night it started going off again. Luckily this time I was able to leave the driver door unlocked (we live in a secluded area, thankfully).

I have an inkling that it's water leaking in somewhere and read that the seals on Passats are not good. Anyone had a similar problem or know where I should start looking for an answer before submitting it for (no doubt) horrendously expensive repair?

Did you ever receive a response to this? I have had the same problem. Had the hood sensor replaced (twice) but still have the same problem - Only when it rains.

I too have had intermittent alarm problems. I have not been able to determine if water is a factor yet or not. I did see a suggestion to replace the driver's side door latch to fix this problem (rich66-interior light problem). Is this doable by a "handy-at-home" mechanic? Does anybody know approximate cost of such? And lastly, is there any other easy option to try first? For example, I maybe my key needs reset?

Any suggestions/comments are greatly appreciated!

It sounds like your door latch is malfunctioning (it's cheap garbage). Try leaving other doors, hood and or trunk unlocked after pressing double unlock; and see if it locks back. This way you'll eliminate the door latch.

Have you tried to reduce the sensitiveness of alarm to low.