Heavy Steering & Stability Issues Plague Audi S1

Had similar symptoms on my 2011 Audi S3. The steering felt unusually heavy, especially during low-speed maneuvers, and the wheel vibration was quite noticeable above 80 km/h. The traction control system would activate out of nowhere, even on dry roads. The root cause was indeed a faulty steering angle sensor, which affected both the electronic stability system and power steering performance. The repair involved: Complete diagnostic scan of the steering system, Steering angle sensor replacement, Recalibration of the new sensor, Reset of the electronic stability control module This is not a minor issue since the steering angle sensor is crucial for vehicle stability and safety systems. Without proper calibration, the traction control and electronic stability systems cannot function correctly, potentially leading to dangerous driving conditions. Important points to verify during repair: Ensure proper alignment check after sensor replacement, Confirm all steering-related error codes are cleared, Test drive to verify traction control system operation, Make sure the workshop has the correct diagnostic equipment for Audi steering systems The symptoms match exactly what you describe, suggesting your steering angle sensor needs attention. While the repair cost might seem high, proper electronic calibration requires specialized equipment and expertise.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the steering angle sensor issue. Just had mine fixed after dealing with similar symptoms, heavy steering and that scary wheel shake. The electronic stability system warning would pop up out of nowhere too, which was pretty concerning. My repair worked out well, but I am still monitoring the traction control light just to be sure everything is stable. The steering column feels much more responsive now and those strange vibrations are completely gone. Did you remember roughly how much you paid for the full repair? Also, has everything stayed working properly since the fix, or have you noticed any other steering-related issues coming up?

Good to hear your steering angle sensor repair was successful. I paid 195 Euro for the coding fix, which was actually less than expected since no sensor replacement was needed. The repair shop diagnosed it as a calibration issue in the steering angle sensor system. The fix has been completely reliable since then, no more stability control warnings or steering issues. The electronic stability system works perfectly now, and the steering feels properly weighted in all conditions. The wheel shake and vibrations never came back either. Just keep monitoring your traction control system for a few weeks to ensure the sensor calibration holds. A properly functioning steering angle sensor is crucial for both stability control and safe handling. If you notice any warning lights or steering abnormalities, get it checked right away since automotive sensors can sometimes need readjustment after initial repair. Based on my experience, the cost was worth it for the peace of mind and restored handling performance. These sensor-related issues really need proper diagnostic equipment and expertise to fix correctly.

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses. Finally got the issue sorted this week. Took it to a specialist who actually found multiple problems causing the symptoms. The steering angle sensor was definitely shot, but they also found some alignment problems that were making everything worse. Total repair came to 780 Euro including: New steering angle sensor, Full alignment, System calibration, Diagnostic testing The steering feels completely different now, smooth and precise with no more shaking. The traction control light has stayed off and the electronic stability system is working normally again. Pretty relieved I got it fixed before winter. Worth every cent to have it done properly. The diagnostic equipment they used really helped pinpoint the exact issues instead of just guessing. Main lesson learned: these sensor issues need proper diagnosis and calibration, not just part replacement.