VW Tiguan ABS Light: Lateral Sensor Failure Fix Tips

I had a very similar issue with my 2011 VW Golf 2.0 TSI last summer. I have some experience working on cars but this was definitely beyond my skill level. The ABS warning light came on during normal driving and the diagnostic scan revealed problems with the lateral sensor and vehicle stability systems. The steering angle sensor was also showing inconsistent readings, which apparently is connected to the whole system. After a thorough wheel alignment check and multiple diagnostic scans, the workshop determined the ABS control unit was completely defective and needed replacement. The total repair cost came to 1000€, including programming and calibration of the new unit. The symptoms sound very similar to your case, but to provide more specific advice, could you share: Have you noticed any changes in steering feel? Does the ESP light come on as well? Did you experience any recent impacts or drive through deep water? Have you had any previous ABS-related repairs? These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced with my Golf.

Thanks for sharing your repair experience. My situation seems quite similar. At 115559km the electronic stability control light started appearing alongside the ABS warning. The steering feel has become noticeably stiffer, especially when turning at low speeds. The yaw rate sensor readings are also inconsistent according to the diagnostic scan I performed. No recent impacts or water damage to report, and this is the first ABS-related issue since my last service. Looks like I might be facing a control unit replacement as well. The electronic control module seems to be the common denominator in these cases. Will book it in for a proper diagnosis and update once resolved.

Based on your latest update, this definitely mirrors my Golf experience even more closely. The combination of ABS and stability control warnings, along with stiff steering, are textbook symptoms of a failing ABS control module. The inconsistent yaw rate sensor readings shown in your diagnostic scan are particularly telling. When my vehicle stability system started acting up, the steering angle data was similarly erratic. The lateral sensor fault initially made me think it might be a simpler fix, but the comprehensive diagnostic scan revealed the deeper issue with the control unit. One thing to note from my repair, make sure the workshop performs a complete calibration of all sensors after replacing the control module. My repair initially had lingering issues because the steering angle sensor needed precise recalibration. The 115000km mark is actually quite typical for these modules to start failing. My Golf showed the same symptoms around 120000km. While the repair cost was significant, the vehicle has been running perfectly for over 40000km since the fix with no stability control or ABS warnings.

Thanks for the detailed responses. After getting it checked at the workshop today, turns out you were absolutely right about the ABS control module. The lateral sensor readings were just a symptom of the failing unit. The total repair came to 1150€ including: New ABS control module, Full system calibration, Wheel alignment check, Electronic stability system testing All warning lights are now off and the steering feels normal again. The technician confirmed the steering angle sensor needed recalibration after the new module was installed, just as suggested. The vehicle stability system is working perfectly now, tested it on some wet roads and the responsiveness is back to normal. For anyone else facing similar symptoms around the 115000-120000km mark, definitely worth checking the control module rather than just focusing on individual sensor readings. Really appreciate the insights from someone who went through the same repair. Helped me go into the workshop better informed about what to expect.