Electrical problems/burning smells

First place to check has to be the fuse box area. It is fairly common for the Scirocco to get a small water leak (see water ingress) which slowly dampens the rear side of the fuse box. This will usually lead to intermittent faults and fuse blowing.

If dampness is found behind or around the fuse box first seal the hole. Then remove the fuse box by letting down the tray underneath the glove box and removing the screw at the bottom of the fuse box. Lift the fuse box up over the lugs on each side and pull gently away so the rear is visible, next remove all the plugs which are colour coded - don`t worry too much as they are shaped and will only go back into their own socket, if in doubt make a small diagram.

Once the fuse box is out the car inspect it for any visible damage, burn marks or melted plastic. If you are lucky any damage will be minimal and the `box will be serviceable. Otherwise search for a scrap one, be aware that there are several different `boxes that look very similar, go on the part no. on the rear.

If it had been getting intermittent then make sure the `box is totally dry before putting back into the car and fingers crossed it`ll be OK.