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walterbecker1

RS5 Steering Sensor Fix Cost & Warning Signs

Vibrating/shaking steering wheel

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Power steering without function

Can this steering problem be fixed without getting ripped off at the shop? My 2011 RS5 (115000km) steers like a truck lately and the wheel shakes pretty bad. Feels like the power steering is dying. Had a diagnostic scan that pointed to the steering angle sensor, but after getting overcharged last time, I want to know what others paid for sensor replacement. Has anyone dealt with something similar? Wondering if this could affect my traction control too.

4 comment(s)


jenniferblaze92

Had a similar issue on my 2014 S5 last month. The steering angle sensor malfunction affected both the power steering and electronic stability systems. The automotive sensors needed complete recalibration, not just replacement. The wheel alignment process was essential since the angle sensor connects directly to multiple vehicle control modules. When these sensors fail, they typically create a chain reaction affecting power steering, traction control, and stability management. During repairs, the technicians found the steering sensor needed proper coding after installation. This is not a DIY job, specialized diagnostic equipment is required to sync the new sensor with the car computer system. The whole process included: 1. Full diagnostic scan 2. Steering angle sensor replacement 3. Wheel alignment verification 4. Electronic calibration 5. Test drive to confirm systems This was a serious repair that required attention from certified techs. The electronic stability system depends on accurate steering input, so driving with a faulty sensor risks compromising vehicle safety systems. The complete fix took about 4 hours at the shop. Consider getting quotes from Audi certified shops since they have the correct diagnostic tools for proper sensor coding.

walterbecker1 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. Currently dealing with similar steering column issues on my RS5. The shaking and heavy steering definitely match what you described. Quick question, do you remember the total cost for your steering sensor replacement and calibration work? Also wondering if youve had any alignment problems or related issues pop up since the repair? The steering problems on these cars seem pretty connected to multiple systems, so trying to budget for potentially more than just the sensor itself.

jenniferblaze92

Great news, since having the mechanic fix my S5, the steering angle sensor issue has been completely resolved. The total repair came to 195 Euro for diagnosing and correcting the sensor coding fault. This was actually less expensive than expected since it turned out to be a coding issue rather than needing full sensor replacement. The traction control system is now working perfectly, and I havent experienced any alignment problems or steering issues in the months since the repair. The wheel tracks straight and true without any of the previous shaking or heaviness. If your symptoms match what I experienced, you might be dealing with a similar coding fault rather than a complete sensor failure. Having the right diagnostic equipment to properly code the steering angle sensor is crucial, its definitely not something that can be fixed with basic tools. The repair restored proper communication between the steering system and other vehicle control modules. The stability control and power steering now work together as designed. Its worth noting that these automotive sensors are interconnected, so fixing the root cause resolved multiple issues at once. The investment was worthwhile considering how important these systems are for safe handling and vehicle control. My advice would be to have it checked soon, as faulty steering sensors can affect multiple safety systems.

walterbecker1 (Author)

I took it to the shop yesterday after getting your input. The diagnosis confirmed exactly what you mentioned, a steering angle sensor failure affecting multiple systems. My experience was nearly identical, though the fix was a bit pricier at 450 Euro since they had to replace the entire sensor unit. The repair process took about 5 hours total. They performed a complete sensor replacement, ran multiple calibration cycles, and did a thorough alignment check. The mechanic showed me how the traction control system was getting confused signals from the faulty sensor, which explained the unstable handling. Really happy with the results, the steering is back to normal, no more shaking or heavy feel. The traction control warning light is gone too. Definitely worth the investment to have everything working properly again. The tech mentioned these sensor failures are somewhat common at this mileage, but proper calibration after replacement is crucial. Just glad to have it sorted before winter driving conditions hit.

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