VW Phaeton ABS Failure: Lateral Sensor Fix Guide

I had a very similar issue with my 2007 VW Touareg diesel. Having some experience with VW electronics, I initially thought it was just a sensor problem, but it turned out to be more complex. The symptoms were identical, ABS warning light constantly on, traction control system deactivated, and the vehicle stability system completely offline. The diagnostic scan pointed to the lateral acceleration sensor, but after a thorough investigation, the workshop found that the actual ABS control unit was defective. The repair process involved: 1. Complete system diagnostic scan 2. Testing the steering angle sensor connections 3. Checking all related wiring 4. Confirming the control unit failure 5. Installing and programming a new control unit Total cost was 1000€ including parts and labor. After the repair, all safety warning lights cleared and systems returned to normal operation. Before suggesting specific solutions for your Phaeton, could you share: Current mileage, Any recent repairs or battery issues, Whether the problem appeared suddenly or gradually, If you notice any other electrical issues, What specific error codes your diagnostic scan showed This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced with my Touareg.

Last service done at 74000km. The yaw rate readings were actually normal when tested separately, making me doubt the initial lateral sensor diagnosis. Feels like there might be an electronic stability connection issue, since all other electrical systems work fine. During my initial tests, the vehicle stability system showed intermittent function before failing completely. The error codes pointed to the ABS module, but given the good physical condition of most components, I am leaning toward an electronic control unit problem rather than individual sensor failure. A full diagnosis by a certified workshop quoted 150€, which seems reasonable before committing to more extensive repairs. The safety warning lights remain consistent, with no flickering or intermittent behavior that might suggest loose connections. Looking at the responses so far, the control unit replacement seems increasingly likely. Would testing the ground connections first be worthwhile, or should I proceed directly with the workshop diagnosis?

Thanks for the additional details. Your description of intermittent stability control before complete failure matches my Touareg experience exactly. Those yaw rate readings being normal are particularly telling, this mirrors what I discovered during my repair journey. The ground connection check is worth doing before the workshop visit, but based on your symptoms, I am almost certain you are dealing with the same electronic control unit issue I faced. When my ABS module failed, it also showed normal sensor readings despite the system being down. Since your lateral sensor and wheel alignment appear fine, focusing on the control unit makes sense. The traction control issues combined with consistent warning lights typically indicate a central system problem rather than individual component failure. Quick cost comparison: my control unit replacement totaled 1000€, but prices vary based on part availability. The 150€ diagnostic fee is standard and usually gets applied to repair costs if you proceed with the same workshop. Would suggest letting them do the full electronic diagnostic, they will need to verify the control unit programming compatibility anyway. When they replaced my unit, they had to match specific coding to the vehicle systems.

Thanks for sharing those repair findings. After considering your control unit case, I have decided to proceed with the professional diagnosis. The 150€ fee makes sense given the complexity of these electronic stability systems. My situation seems to match yours closely, especially the part about normal yaw rate readings despite system failure. The diagnostic scan results are quite similar as well. What convinced me was your mention of the intermittent stability control issues before complete failure, as that mirrors my experience exactly. Rather than risk replacing components unnecessarily, I will have the workshop do their full electronic diagnosis. If it does turn out to be the control unit like in your case, at least I will have confirmation before investing in the more expensive repair. The wheel alignment and lateral sensors all checking out normal further supports this approach. I will schedule the diagnostic work next week. If the repair quote comes in around 1000€ like your experience, that seems reasonable for resolving these crucial safety systems. Will hold off on any parts replacement until getting their complete assessment of the ABS module and related electronics.