VW Crafter ABS Warning: Lateral Sensor Malfunction

Based on my experience with a 2020 VW e-Transporter, I faced almost identical symptoms last winter. The electronic stability system started acting up, showing persistent ABS warnings on the dash. After getting a diagnostic scan at my regular workshop, they found that the control unit was defective, which was affecting multiple safety warning systems including the ABS and traction control. The vehicle stability systems were completely disabled as a safety measure. The repair involved: Complete diagnostic scan to verify the issue, Replacing the affected control unit, Recalibrating the lateral sensor systems, Testing all stability control functions Total cost was 1000€ including parts and labor. The repair took about 4 hours to complete. To provide more specific advice for your case, could you share: Have you noticed any other warning lights? Does the issue occur more frequently during specific driving conditions? Have you recently had any other repairs done? What specific error code is showing up? These details would help determine if your Crafter is experiencing the same root cause as my e-Transporter did.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My recent diagnostic scan shows error code C1160 related to the steering angle sensor signal. While driving, I notice the electronic stability system seems to disengage out of nowhere, especially during cornering. The wheel alignment was done during the last service at 157946KM, but the issue persisted. The yaw rate sensor readings also appear inconsistent according to the diagnostic report. No other warning lights are present besides the ABS indicator. The vehicle has been properly maintained with regular service intervals, so I am quite surprised by this sudden malfunction of the stability control system. Based on your repair details, I am wondering if this could also be a control unit issue rather than just a faulty sensor. The symptoms sound very similar to what you experienced.

Thanks for those additional details about your Crafter. The error code C1160 actually points to a different root cause than what I experienced with my e-Transporter. While the symptoms are similar, the steering angle sensor fault is likely the primary issue here rather than the control unit that was faulty in my case. The inconsistent yaw rate sensor readings combined with the steering angle sensor error strongly suggest a calibration or communication issue between these components. The electronic control systems rely heavily on accurate input from both sensors to maintain proper stability and traction control function. Since you mentioned the wheel alignment was recently done, its worth checking if the steering angle sensor was properly recalibrated afterward. Sometimes this critical step gets overlooked, leading to exactly these kinds of stability system errors. In my experience with VW commercial vehicles, I would recommend: 1. Getting a complete diagnostic scan focused specifically on the steering angle sensor 2. Having the sensor recalibrated before replacing any components 3. If issues persist, then consider sensor replacement This approach should cost significantly less than the control unit replacement I needed, probably around 300€ for diagnostics and recalibration if no parts are needed.

Thanks for the detailed follow-up recommendations. Your experience really helps put things in perspective. I will definitely ask the workshop to focus first on the steering angle sensor calibration before jumping into more expensive repairs. The fact that the stability control issues started after the wheel alignment does make me think the sensor calibration could be the culprit. The traction control system has been quite erratic lately, and I want to ensure all safety warning systems are functioning correctly before taking any long trips. I will schedule an appointment with my workshop next week, specifically requesting them to: 1. Run targeted diagnostics on the steering angle sensor 2. Check calibration of both steering and yaw rate sensors 3. Verify all electronic stability functions post-calibration Will update once I get it sorted. The 300€ estimate for diagnostics and recalibration sounds much more appealing than a full control unit replacement. Really appreciate your help in narrowing down the potential causes.