The steering angle sensor (G85) in your Volkswagen plays a crucial role in various safety and driver-assistance systems like ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and steering assist. If this sensor malfunctions or requires recalibration, you might experience warning lights on your dashboard or even compromised handling. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to perform a VW steering angle sensor reset using VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System).
Performing the VW Steering Angle Sensor Reset with VCDS
This procedure outlines the steps likely mirrored by ODIS (Offboard Diagnostic Information System), VW’s official diagnostic software, but translated for VCDS users. Remember to exercise caution when working with your vehicle’s electronics.
Step 1: Edge Detection
This step involves identifying the steering angle sensor’s operational range.
- Engine Start and Wheel Alignment: Start your engine and ensure your front wheels are pointed straight ahead.
- Steering Assist Access: Navigate to [44 – Steering Assist] in VCDS. Then, go to [Security Access – 16] and enter the code 19249. Click [Do It!].
- Advanced Measuring Values Selection: In [Adv. Meas. Values], select the following:
- [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 your steering wheel to the right and left, exceeding the index mark (approximately 45 degrees) in each direction. Continue until all four slope detection indexes are recognized (detected) and the index mark value changes to (1). Select [Done, Go Back].
Example of VCDS Advanced Measurement Screen
Step 2: Steering Angle Sensor Calibration
This step calibrates the sensor to the steering wheel’s position.
- Basic Settings: Go to [Basic Settings – 04] and select [Show Measuring Data]. Choose the following:
- [IDE02216-IDE05795] Steering angle sensor: basic setting – End basic setting
- [IDE02216-MAS03161] Steering angle sensor: basic setting – Start
- Steering Angle Sensor Selection: 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 then the left, reaching the mechanical stop in each direction.
- Centering and Status Check: Return the steering wheel to the center position. The status should change to “Permitted” (IDE02216-MAS03161 or IDE02216-IDE05795). Note: This might not always display “Permitted” in testing.
- Completion: Once “Permitted” (or successful completion) is indicated, keep the steering wheel stationary and pointed straight ahead. Wait for the status to change to “Finished correctly.” Select [Stop]. Note: In some tests, “Finished correctly” might not display even without faults or warning lamps.
Example of VCDS Basic Settings Screen
Step 3: Evaluation (No VCDS Required)
This final step confirms the successful calibration.
- Steering Wheel Range Test: Turn the steering wheel to the right end stop, then to the left end stop, and finally return it to the center.
- Warning Lamp Check: Observe the yellow fault lamp on the dashboard. It should turn off.
- Engine Stop and DTC Check: Turn off the engine. Use a scan tool (not necessarily VCDS) to check and clear any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Conclusion
Successfully resetting the steering angle sensor with VCDS is crucial for the proper functioning of your Volkswagen’s safety and driver-assistance systems. This guide offers a detailed process based on the likely procedure used by ODIS, adapted for VCDS. While “Permitted” or “Finished Correctly” may not always display during the procedure, the absence of fault codes and warning lamps usually indicates a successful reset. Remember to always consult your vehicle’s repair manual for specific instructions and safety precautions. This guide is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional advice.
