This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to set your steering wheel using VCDS, a diagnostic tool for Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, and Skoda vehicles. This procedure is often necessary after certain repairs or modifications to ensure proper steering angle sensor calibration. While this guide follows the general procedure used by ODIS, it’s presented in VCDS-specific terms. Always consult your vehicle’s repair manual for specific instructions and safety precautions.
Steering Wheel Calibration with VCDS: Three Key Steps
This process involves three distinct test steps: edge detection, steering angle sensor calibration, and an evaluation of the basic setting.
Step 1: Edge Detection
This step involves identifying the steering angle sensor’s range of motion.
- Preparation: Start the engine and ensure your front wheels are pointed straight ahead.
- Security Access: In VCDS, navigate to [44 – Steering Assist] and then [Security Access – 16]. Enter the security access code 19249 and click [Do It!].
- Advanced Measuring Values: Select [Adv Meas Values] and add the following measuring blocks:
- [IDE04510-MAS03732] Steering angle sensor: slope detection index – Steering angle speed negative dropping slope on curve
- [IDE04510-MAS03733] Steering angle sensor: slope detection index – Steering angle speed negative rising slope on curve
- [IDE04510-MAS03734] Steering angle sensor: slope detection index – Steering angle speed positive dropping slope on curve
- [IDE04510-MAS03735] Steering angle sensor: slope detection index – Steering angle speed positive rising slope on curve
- [IDE04510-MAS03736] Steering angle sensor: slope detection index – Index mark
- Steering Wheel Rotation: Slowly rotate the steering wheel to the right and left, exceeding the index mark (approximately 45° in each direction). Continue until all four slope detection indexes are recognized (detected) and the index mark is set to (1). Click [Done, Go Back].
Step 2: Steering Angle Sensor Calibration
This step calibrates the sensor to the steering wheel’s current position.
- Basic Settings: Go to [Basic Settings – 04] and select [Show Measuring Data]. Add these measuring blocks:
- [IDE02216-IDE05795] Steering angle sensor: basic setting – End basic setting
- [IDE02216-MAS03161] Steering angle sensor: basic setting – Start
- Initiate Calibration: In Basic Settings, select [MAS00815] Steering angle sensor and click [Go!]. The status should display “Running.”
- Steering Wheel Rotation: Slowly turn the steering wheel to the right and left mechanical stops. Then, return the steering wheel to the center position. The status should change to “Permitted.” (Note: In some instances, “Permitted” may not display in either of the specified measuring blocks.)
- Completion: Once the status indicates completion (e.g., “Finished correctly”), click [Stop].
Step 3: Evaluation (No VCDS Required)
This final step verifies the calibration.
- Steering Wheel Test: Turn the steering wheel to the right end stop, then to the left end stop, and finally back to the center.
- Fault Lamp Check: Observe the yellow fault lamp on the dashboard. It should turn off after the steering wheel test. If it remains on, there may be a problem with the calibration or a fault in the system.
- Final Check: Stop the engine and check for any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). Clear any existing DTCs.
Conclusion
Successfully setting your steering wheel with VCDS is crucial for the proper functioning of your vehicle’s safety and driver assistance systems. This guide offers a detailed approach using VCDS. However, remember to consult your vehicle’s specific repair manual for accurate procedures and safety guidelines. If you encounter any difficulties or uncertainties during the process, seeking professional assistance from a qualified technician is recommended.
