Audi S4 ABS Light Linked to Failed Lateral Sensor

Had similar issues on my 2013 Audi S5 last winter. The electronic stability and traction control warnings appeared together with ABS. Diagnostic scan confirmed a faulty lateral sensor causing communication errors with the main control unit. Initially tried a local shop, but they struggled with calibration. The lateral sensor replacement requires specific dealer diagnostic tools to properly sync with the electronic control modules. In my case, the entire ABS control unit needed replacement since moisture had damaged internal components. The repair was substantial, not just a simple sensor swap. The system integrates deeply with vehicle safety features, so proper diagnosis and repair is critical. Cannot safely drive long-term with compromised ABS and stability systems. This job typically requires dealer-level expertise due to the complex calibration needed after parts replacement. The electronic stability programming must be precisely matched to your specific vehicle configuration. A general shop may replace parts but could struggle with final programming. Based on the similar symptoms, recommend getting it properly diagnosed at a dealer. The lateral sensor could be the root cause, but control unit damage is also possible if left unaddressed.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the S5 stability system issues. While my dealer ultimately fixed it properly, I am still dealing with occasional steering angle sensor alerts that they say are unrelated. Did you remember roughly what the total repair cost came to? Also curious if you had any other electronic stability or ABS warnings pop up since getting it fixed? Mine has been fine for about 6 months but I want to stay ahead of any potential issues with the wheel alignment or yaw rate sensors.

Similar to my initial reply about the S5 issues, I can report that the lateral acceleration sensor repair completely resolved my stability system warnings. The total cost was 1000 Euro for replacing the affected control unit which turned out to be defective. After the fix, my vehicle stability and traction control systems have worked flawlessly. However, steering angle sensor alerts are actually quite different from the lateral acceleration issues I experienced. These could indicate alignment problems or worn steering components affecting the sensor calibration. The diagnostic scan your dealer performed should help identify if the yaw rate and steering angle readings are within spec. Unlike my situation where the control unit was the culprit, steering sensor issues often relate to mechanical alignment rather than electronic failures. Since getting the lateral acceleration sensor repaired, I have not seen any recurring ABS or stability control warnings. A proper fix should eliminate these issues completely. If youre still getting intermittent alerts, definitely have the dealer investigate further, as optimal vehicle stability depends on accurate sensor readings across all systems.

My dealer visit for the ABS and stability control warnings ended up being pretty straightforward. The steering angle sensor needed recalibration after they replaced the lateral acceleration sensor. Total cost came to 850 Euro including diagnostic scan time and parts. The vehicle stability system is working properly now, though I do regular wheel alignment checks since the steering feels slightly different. No safety warning lights have returned in the past 3 months, which gives me peace of mind. The mechanic explained that moisture had affected the original sensor, causing those erratic ABS warnings. They recommended annual diagnostic scans to catch any sensor degradation early. Makes sense given how crucial these systems are for safety. Glad I went with a certified shop rather than trying to save money at a general repair place. The proper diagnostic equipment and expertise made the difference in getting it fixed right the first time.