Audi Q3 Steering Shake Points to ABS System Danger

Having experienced similar symptoms with my 2014 Audi Q5, I can share what was discovered at the garage. The flat tire was actually a symptom of a larger issue. A faulty tire pressure monitoring system valve was causing a slow air leak, but the real problem was a failing wheel bearing combined with a damaged tire sidewall. The vibration through the steering wheel persisted even after correcting tire pressure because the wheel bearing had worn significantly. The ABS warning light was triggered by irregular wheel speed signals caused by the failing bearing. When the tire was dismounted, we found the valve had corroded internally, making it impossible to maintain proper tire pressure. The mechanic showed how the wheel bearing had excessive play, which explained both the steering difficulty and the vibration. This turned out to be a serious safety concern requiring immediate attention, as a failed wheel bearing can cause wheel separation in extreme cases. The repair involved replacing both the wheel bearing assembly and the defective valve, plus a new tire due to the damaged sidewall. Always monitor unusual tire pressure fluctuations, as they might indicate underlying mechanical problems beyond a simple punctured tire situation.

Thanks for sharing that experience. Almost identical issue with my Q3 last winter. After inflated tires and multiple pressure checks, the tire sensor kept showing warnings. My mechanic found both a faulty wheel bearing and a slow air leak from a corroded valve stem. The vibration through the steering was quite scary, especially since I had no clue a bad wheel bearing could cause these symptoms. The ABS light definitely had me worried too. Just curious, do you remember the total repair cost for your case? Mine was resolved but wondering if the price I paid was reasonable. Also, have you noticed any similar issues since the repair?

Since getting the repair done on my Q5, the tire pressure warning system has worked flawlessly. The faulty valve was indeed the culprit causing those persistent low tire pressure alerts. The repair bill came to 280 Euro for replacing the defective valve, which might seem steep but includes the specialized tire sensor calibration. No tire-related issues have occurred since then. The tire gauge readings have remained stable, and the steering vibrations completely disappeared. The ABS warning light has stayed off, confirming the wheel bearing was properly diagnosed and fixed. Getting a punctured tire or flat tire is common, but when sensors keep triggering warnings despite properly inflated tires, its usually a sign of component failure. In our cases, the valve issues needed professional attention beyond basic tire maintenance.

Thanks everyone for the helpful insights. Just wanted to wrap up and share how my repair went. Finally took it to my mechanic last week after getting increasingly worried about the steering vibration. Turns out I needed a wheel bearing replacement and they found the tire monitoring system was acting up because of a damaged sensor. The tire pressure loss was happening due to a corroded valve stem, just like others mentioned. The total repair came to 320 Euro including parts and labor. The mechanic showed me the old bearing which was completely shot. After the fix, the steering is smooth again and the tire sensor is working perfectly, no more unusual pressure warnings. Pretty relieved I got it checked when I did. The ABS light is now off and the car handles like new. Definitely learned to take tire pressure warnings more seriously, even when the tires look properly inflated.