Rear parking sensors/ Columbus touch screen fault

[JamesD1976]

Hi all.

I've just purchased a 58 plate Skoda Octavia 2.0 manual TDI estate. The spec is Laurin & Klement and the car is fitted with a Columbus touch screen DVD/Sat Nav screen. The car also has an aftermarket towbar fitted.

When I put the car into reverse nothing happens on the touch screen and I don't get any bleeping from the sensors either. It's like it's all been disconnected. I can't locate any 'P' button anywhere either. Before I take the car to an auto electrician is there any quick fixes I could be checking like fuses etc. Thank you.

[Rustynuts]

Firstly, a scan with VCDS will tell you what's going on and point to where the fault lies.

[JamesD1976]

What is a VCDS? And I certainly don't have one, plus I'm guessing they are not cheap to buy? Thanks

[langers2k]

Where are you based? A local member might be able to take a look for you and read out any fault codes.

[JamesD1976]

I'm in Keighley, West Yorkshire. Thanks

[Rustynuts]

Keighley up to me is about 60 miles.  There'll be someone closer I guess if you look on this list.

[JamesD1976]

Hi again. I've just worked out that the car is not fitted with a Skoda car stereo, it's one of these cheap lookalikey things. I'm wondering whether this is why my sensors don't work and it doesn't seem like it has a reverse parking screen either. I've emailed who I think sell them on Amazon but wondering whether I should just replace it with a proper Skoda one or can someone advise which one is compatible with the sensor's. Thank you.

[Rustynuts]

Yeah, that would cause the problem. Aftermarket stuff won't always integrate with OEM systems.

[Rustynuts]

I have a couple of units here which will fit and work fine, genuine Columbus units.

[JamesD1976]

Thanks Rustynuts, however I've had the car into the garage this morning as I noticed the reverse lights weren't on either (school boy error). Turns out there was a snapped wire on the reverse switch. It's had a temporary fix and everything is working fine now including a screen display. It does need a longer piece of wire and connector fitting buts that's for another day when it's in for its Dual Mass Flywheel but that's another headache for another day.

[silver1011]

The 'P' button would be for the front sensors only, hence it's absence.