FAQ
TL;DR: On a Golf V 1.9 TDI (BLS), 1 relay (R5) drives the rear defogger; "R5 is responsible for heating the rear window." For no cruise-control/defogger, start with fuses and the relay block behind them. [Elektroda, KMal, post #17084900]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Golf V BLS owners pinpoint the right fuses/relays and first diagnostic steps for dead cruise control or rear-window heating.
Quick Facts
- Interior side fuse panel with 49 vertical slots was observed on a 2007 Golf V BLS. [Elektroda, actomek, post #17084038]
- Rear window heating is switched by relay R5 located behind the cabin fuses. [Elektroda, KMal, post #17084900]
- Fuse/relay layouts vary by build date: up to 05/2007, 05–11/2007, and after 11/2007. [Elektroda, KMal, post #17084614]
- Two fuse/relay documents were shared for 2006–2009 Golf 1.9 TDI (BLS, DPF). [Elektroda, KMal, post #17083787]
- In this case, the engine-bay box had many unused positions; the passenger box was fully occupied. [Elektroda, actomek, post #17084038]
Which relay controls the rear window defogger on Golf V 1.9 TDI (BLS)?
Relay R5 controls the rear window heating, and it sits behind the cabin fuse panel. As one expert noted, “R5 is responsible for heating the rear window.” Check for relay operation when the defogger switch is pressed. [Elektroda, KMal, post #17084900]
How many fuses are in the interior side panel on some 2007 BLS cars?
There are 49 vertical fuse positions reported in the interior side fuse panel on a 2007 Golf V BLS Variant. If your panel matches this layout, use a test light or multimeter to check all 49. [Elektroda, actomek, post #17084038]
My cruise control won’t activate—does a specific fuse handle it?
A dedicated “cruise control” fuse was not listed by the owner in this thread. The system often shares power and signals with other circuits, so verify fuses, then inspect the stalk and perform a diagnostic scan. [Elektroda, actomek, post #17084798]
What solved the cruise-control issue in this thread?
The resolution pointed to a faulty stalk (cruise-control handle). Replacing or repairing the stalk restored function in this case. [Elektroda, actomek, post #17122508]
Should I scan the car before chasing fuses?
Yes. Connect a diagnostic tester (e.g., VCDS) and read faults and live data for the cruise and heated rear window functions. As one member put it, “It would explain a lot.” [Elektroda, T5, post #17090158]
Where can I get a fuse diagram for Golf V 1.9 TDI BLS?
Fuse and relay documentation for 2006–2009 Golf 1.9 TDI (BLS, DPF) was attached in this thread (Polish description). Check those files against your car’s build date. [Elektroda, KMal, post #17083787]
Why does my fusebox look different from diagrams online?
Volkswagen used several layouts around 2007. There are minor differences with three build splits: up to 05/2007, 05–11/2007, and after 11/2007. Match your car to the correct split before testing. [Elektroda, KMal, post #17084614]
Is it normal to see many empty slots in the engine-bay fuse box?
Yes, this case showed many free positions in the engine compartment, while the interior fuse panel was fully populated. Empty slots can be for unused options or regional equipment. [Elektroda, actomek, post #17084038]
How can I quickly check the rear defogger circuit without a full diagram?
Use this 3‑step check:
- Switch on the rear defogger and watch for the indicator.
- Listen/feel for R5 clicking behind the cabin fuses.
- After 2–3 minutes, confirm the glass warms evenly.
If no click or heat, test power and the R5 relay. [Elektroda, KMal, post #17084900]
Could the rear window heater seem dead but actually work?
Yes. In this thread the owner later confirmed the rear window heating worked after initial doubts. Verify under consistent conditions and time for warm-up before assuming a fault. [Elektroda, actomek, post #17122508]
What should I check next if all fuses test OK?
Inspect the relays behind the fuses and the control hardware. For cruise issues, prioritize the stalk functionality and confirm with a diagnostic tester. This thread ended with a faulty stalk. [Elektroda, actomek, post #17122508]
Can sharing detailed photos help identify the correct fuse layout?
Yes. Posting clear photos of both the interior and engine-bay fuse/relay blocks helps match your car to the proper diagram and build split. [Elektroda, KMal, post #17084082]
