VW Discover Media Touchscreen Not Working — LCD & Digitiser Fix (T6 Transporter)

The Problem

The Discover Media touchscreen became unresponsive or completely blank, though audio continued to work via the steering wheel controls. A previous attempt to save money by bonding a cheap replacement glass digitiser on top of the original failed after four months, and trying to remove it with heat and dental floss destroyed the underlying LCD panel.

Solution

1. Confirm the head unit electronics are still working by testing whether audio plays through the steering wheel controls — if it does, only the display assembly needs replacing.
2. Identify which Discover Media unit you have before ordering. There are two generations — Discover Media 1 (MIB2) and the later Discover Media 2 — and they use different panel sizes and connectors. Check the part number on the label on the rear of the unit (visible once removed) and match it to the listing exactly (verify part number before ordering).
3. Order a complete LCD and digitiser assembly to match your specific unit (approximately £70) rather than a glass-only digitiser overlay. Glass-only overlays cost around £12 but are very difficult to remove cleanly if they fail, and removal attempts will likely damage the LCD beneath. When buying on eBay, choose a seller whose listing states the exact Discover Media generation and VW part number it fits and who offers returns, rather than a generic 'fits all' listing (verify part number and fitment before ordering).
4. Remove the head unit from the dash. On the T6 the surrounding trim/fascia panel must be eased out first — work around the edges with a plastic trim removal tool to release the clips without marking the dash, then unscrew or release the unit. Genuine VW head units typically require a pair of radio removal keys (DIN release tools) inserted into the slots on either side of the face to release the retaining catches; check whether your unit has these slots before starting (confirm this applies to your unit). There is no need to disconnect the battery for the swap itself.
5. Fit the new LCD assembly, reconnect the connectors, reinstall the head unit, and test touch response and display before refitting the trim.