RSQ3 Heavy Steering Points to Failing Angle Sensor

Last month I had nearly identical symptoms with my 2017 Audi RS3. The steering became noticeably heavy, particularly during low-speed maneuvers, and the stability control warning appeared on the dashboard. The root cause was indeed a faulty steering angle sensor within the steering column. This sensor is crucial for the electronic stability program and power steering systems to function correctly. After diagnostic testing, it showed incorrect steering angle values, which triggered the system warnings. The repair required removing the steering column to access and replace the steering sensor unit. This is a complex job because the steering angle sensor is integrated with other critical components. After replacement, the new sensor needed proper calibration and coding to communicate correctly with the vehicle systems. A wheel alignment was also necessary as part of the complete repair process to ensure all steering angles were set correctly. This is a serious issue that should not be postponed, as it affects both safety systems and handling characteristics of the vehicle. The problem is not uncommon in VAG vehicles of this generation, and while the repair cost might seem high, attempting DIY repairs on steering components connected to safety systems is not advisable.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My angle sensor repair was also quite complex and the stability issues got resolved completely after fixing it. Just curious, do you remember roughly what you paid for the whole repair including the wheel alignment? Also, has everything been working smoothly since the sensor replacement, or have you noticed any other steering-related problems?

Good to hear you got it sorted. Since getting the steering angle sensor coding fixed for 195 Euro, my car has been running perfectly. The electronic stability system works as intended, and the heavy steering issue completely disappeared. No more alignment problems or error lights on the dashboard. The wheel alignment was actually not needed in my case, as the traction control and steering issues were purely related to the sensor being out of calibration. This made the repair much more straightforward and cost-effective than initially expected. Its been 6 months now, and the steering remains precise with no sensor replacement needed. Just goes to show that sometimes these issues can be resolved through recoding rather than replacing expensive parts.

Thanks for the input. I ended up visiting my mechanic last week and can confirm the steering sensor was indeed the culprit. The total repair came to 850 Euro including labor, parts, and recalibration. More expensive than I hoped, but worth it for the safety aspect. The process took about 4 hours, they had to remove the steering column to access the faulty angle sensor. After replacement, they performed electronic stability system calibration to ensure everything communicated properly. Its been a week since the repair and the difference is night and day. The steering feels normal again, no more shaking during turns, and the warning light is gone. Definitely glad I got it fixed rather than trying to live with the issue.