RS6 Steering System Issues: Shaking & Heavy Control

I faced nearly identical issues with my 2006 S6, which shares many components with your RS6. As someone with moderate experience working on Audis, I can tell you the symptoms you describe strongly indicate steering angle sensor problems. The electronic stability system relies heavily on accurate steering sensor data, and when the coding gets corrupted, it can cause exactly these symptoms, heavy steering feel and stability control issues. In my case, the wheel alignment checked out fine, but the car still felt unstable. The workshop diagnosed a faulty steering angle sensor coding. The total repair cost was 195 Euro, which included diagnostic time and recoding the sensor. The actual fix took about 2 hours. To properly diagnose your specific case, could you share: Any warning lights on the dashboard? Does the problem get worse at higher speeds? Have you recently had any work done on the suspension or steering? Are there any unusual noises when turning? The steering sensor issue can sometimes be related to other alignment problems or suspension components, so these details would help narrow down the exact cause. Also, if your model has the electronic steering sensor system, its important to have it properly calibrated by a workshop with the right diagnostic equipment.

Last service was at 135000 KM. Thanks for the detailed response. There are no warning lights showing, but the issues definitely worsen at highway speeds. The steering wheel vibrates more intensely above 100 KM/h. The automotive sensors were never checked during routine maintenance. No recent suspension work has been done, but I notice a slight clicking sound during full steering lock. The wheel alignment was done 6 months ago but the traction control still feels inconsistent. I think youre right about the steering sensor needing recalibration or replacement. Would you recommend getting the sensor diagnosed first before looking at other potential issues?

Thanks for those extra details. When I had my S6 fixed, I learned the clicking noise during full lock is often a telltale sign of steering column issues, which can be related to the sensor problems. My mechanic first ran a full diagnostic on the steering sensor since the symptoms matched, especially the worsening vibration at higher speeds and traction control inconsistencies. This approach saved time and money by pinpointing the exact issue before exploring other possibilities. The clicking sound you mentioned is exactly what I experienced. In my case, the steering sensor replacement also required a steering column inspection, as the two components work together. The alignment problems I initially suspected turned out to be a secondary effect of the faulty sensor throwing off the stability systems. Word of caution from my experience: make sure they check the entire steering sensor assembly, not just the sensor itself. My first repair attempt only addressed the sensor, but the problems returned until the whole unit was properly inspected and calibrated. If your vehicle has similar mileage to what mine had, its likely time for a full sensor replacement rather than just recalibration. The repair should include a complete steering system diagnostic to ensure there arent any underlying issues affecting the new sensor. What helped in my case was having them document the sensor readings before and after replacement. This confirmed the fix was successful and the alignment and traction control systems were properly communicating.

Thanks for all the help. The clicking sound during full lock was definitely concerning me the most, but your experience helps put things in perspective. Think I'll get the steering sensor diagnosed first since the symptoms match so closely with what you described. Your suggestion about checking the entire steering sensor assembly makes sense, especially given my cars high mileage. Ill make sure to ask for the complete diagnostic package and sensor readings documentation. The electronic stability system issues and traction control problems need sorting before winter anyway. Going to book it in next week and will request they inspect the steering column while theyre at it. The wheel alignment from 6 months ago should still be good, but worth having them verify all systems are properly calibrated after the sensor work. Did you have any other maintenance done while they had it in for the sensor replacement? Wondering if I should tackle any preventive work while its being serviced.