ESP Issue for Cruise Control Installs

Later Golf based models may be fitted with the VW stability control system. This can be identified by the 'ESP', button on the dash which replaced the simple traction control system used on some earlier models.

When undertaking a cruise control installation on an ESP equipped car, you should be aware of the following issues relating to the steering angle sensor that is fitted to these models.

1) Revised steering column shroud - this means that there are 2 additional screws fixing the lower shroud onto the steering column. These screws are parallel to the steering column and can only be accessed once the steering wheel has been removed.

2) The steering angle sensor assembly replaced the simple slip ring assembly behind the steering wheel that provides rotating electrical connections to the steering wheel airbag and horn-push switch. Before removing the steering wheel on an ESP equipped car, ensure that the road wheels are set straight ahead and that there is a clear alignment mark between the steering wheel and steering column (visible when the retaining bolt has been removed). If in doubt make a new alignment line across the two components using a permanent pen, as it is important that the wheel is refitted in exactly the same position.

3) The ESP steering angle sensor can be removed from the steering column together with the stalk switches, but will have to be unclipped to allow the cruise control stalk to be fitted. Be careful not to pull the sensor apart whilst removing it!

4) Before re-fitting the steering angle sensor, ensure that both the steering column and the sensor are set to the mid-angle position. The mid 'turn' of the sensor can be identified when a yellow dot becomes visible through a clear window in the sensor housing, and the mid position of the mid turn can be found when the dots on the outside of the rotating part of the sensor align with the marks on the housing (at the 4 'o'clock position when viewed from driver's seat).

5) So long as the steering wheel is refitted in the same position on the steering column then no additional steps should be necessary. However, if the steering wheel is misaligned even by a small amount on the fine splines, or a new sensor if fitted, then it will be necessary to re-calibrate the range of the sensor using VAG-COM:

ESP Steering Angle Sensor Calibration
(Courtesy of www.ross-tech.com)
Updated 29 Mar. 2005

Ross-Tech is not responsible for any damage or problems that may result from following these instructions. They are to be used at your own risk. As always, you should refer to a Factory Repair Manual for your vehicle!

This procedure details how to perform the zero position calibration for the Steering Angle Sensor (G85) in many VW/Audi vehicles equipped with ESP (Electronic Stability Program).

This procedure should be performed when vehicle alignment is performed or if any of the following components have been removed or replaced:

• ABS/EDL/ASR/ESP control unit (J104)
  
• Steering Angle Sensor (G85)
  
• Steering Column

There are certain test conditions that must be met before doing this procedure:

• Start the vehicle.
• Turn the steering wheel one turn to the right and one turn to the left.
• Drive in a short distance straight line on a level surface at a speed not higher than 20 km/h.
• If the steering wheel is straight during the test drive then stop the vehicle with the wheels pointed straight
• Ensure that the steering wheel is not moved again.
• Keep the engine running and do not switch off the ignition.

Procedure for performing the zero position calibration for the Steering Angle Sensor (G85) on VW Golf, GTI, Jetta, and Audi TT:

[Select]
[03 - ABS Brakes]
[Login - 11]
Enter 40168
[Do It!]
[Basic Settings - 04]
Group 060
[Go!]

This will store the zero (centered) position of the steering wheel. There should be a displayed message that reads: "Steer. angle sender compens OK". If you get an error, it may mean the Login was not successfully performed.

Click the [Done, Go Back] button and you're all set.

Procedure for performing the zero position calibration for the Steering Angle Sensor (G85) on VW Passat and Audi A4/S4, A6/S6, and A8/S8:

[Select]
[03 - ABS Brakes]
[Login - 11]
Enter 40168
[Do It!]
[Basic Settings - 04]
Group 001
[Go!]

This will store the zero (centered) position of the steering wheel. There should be a displayed message that reads: "Steer. angle sender compens OK". If you get an error, it may mean the Login was not successfully performed.

Click the [Done, Go Back] button and you're all set.