VW Golf ABS & Steering Issues After Tire Service

As a Golf GTE Hybrid 2020 owner, I faced nearly identical symptoms. The tire pressure monitoring system malfunction initially masked a more complex issue. After the ABS warning appeared and steering became heavy, inspection revealed the wheel speed sensor was damaged during the previous tire service. The key problem wasnt a simple low tire pressure or air leak situation. The TPMS valve replacement procedure had been done incorrectly, allowing metal shavings to interfere with the wheel speed sensor. This affected both the ABS system and power steering assistance. This requires specialized diagnostic equipment to properly assess. The repair involved: Cleaning the wheel speed sensor area, Replacing the damaged sensor, Recalibrating the ABS system, Installing new TPMS valves correctly This was a serious issue that could have led to ABS failure if left unchecked. Suggest visiting a certified VW service center rather than a general garage, as they have specific training for hybrid system diagnostics and TPMS integration. The symptoms match exactly what happens when theres interference between the tire monitoring system and ABS sensors. Regular tire pressure checks are important, but proper TPMS service is equally critical.

Thanks for sharing that detailed experience. I had nearly the same issue but got lucky catching it early. Just wondering, did you remember roughly what the total repair cost was? My wheel speed sensor fix was around 450€ including labor, but prices seem to vary quite a bit. Also, has everything been running smoothly since the repair? My tire pressure monitoring is working perfectly now, but I sometimes notice a slight vibration when braking hard. Probably unrelated, but thought Id ask since our issues were so similar.

The total repair bill came to 280€ for my valve replacement, which was actually less than expected. The tire pressure low warning completely disappeared after the fix, and the system has been working flawlessly for the past 8 months. About the vibration during hard braking, I didnt experience that issue after my repair. The tire sensor and TPMS now give accurate readings, and the steering feels normal again. That vibration you mention could be worth checking out, as it might indicate uneven brake wear or warped rotors, especially given the mileage on your Golf. A proper tire pressure gauge reading might help identify if theres any remaining imbalance in your tire pressures that could cause vibration under heavy braking. While the TPMS is working, a manual check with an accurate tire gauge can sometimes reveal subtle pressure differences that the sensors might miss. Just to note, getting the repair done at the certified center was key in ensuring all systems were properly recalibrated and working together correctly. The flat tire detection and other safety systems all need to be in sync for optimal performance.

Thanks everyone for the helpful replies. Just wanted to share how this all turned out. Took your advice and went to a certified shop instead of the previous mechanic. Turns out both wheel speed sensors needed replacement plus some wiring repairs. Total came to 520€ but definitely worth it for peace of mind. The repair process was actually pretty smooth, dropped it off in the morning and had it back same day. They showed me the damaged parts and explained how the previous work likely caused the issue. Really appreciated their transparency. All my issues cleared up right away. No more ABS warnings, steering is back to normal, and tire pressure monitoring works perfectly now. Even that slight shake during braking is gone, which was apparently related to the sensor problems. Only wish I had gone to them first instead of that other shop. Learned my lesson about trying to save money on specialized repairs. At least its all sorted now and running like new again.