not really it usually gives weird intermittent fails due to varying current flow when the earth connection is poor unless it breaks off completely then it wont work at all.
On the VR6 the software in the ECU probably has C/L control and diagnostics included. I know its in VAG-COM ver 607 which I have but my car is a 95 gti so only has controller access for engine, abs, airbag and immobiliser.
You might get a DTC if you get it scanned for faults.