Where is the steering angle sensor located in the Volkswagen Tiguan
3 Answers
The steering angle sensor in the Volkswagen Tiguan is located at the bottom of the steering column. The steering angle sensor in a vehicle is used to detect the rotation angle and direction of the steering wheel. The steering angle sensor consists of components such as a photoelectric coupling element and a perforated slot plate. The photoelectric coupling element includes a light-emitting diode and a phototransistor. The perforated slot plate is positioned between the light-emitting diode and the phototransistor and contains numerous small holes. It is a device used to determine the angular position of a shaft, such as the steering column, comprising a coil assembly, coil support, and a coupler element with an angular position related to the shaft's angular position. The steering wheel angle sensor is widely used in vehicle dynamic stability control systems. Its stability and accuracy are directly related to driving safety. Compared to the commonly used 'ABS system' in vehicles today, it not only includes all the functions of the 'ABS system' but can also actively apply brakes when the vehicle loses stability, thereby controlling the 'body posture' and ensuring driving safety to some extent.
Steering angle sensor? I just helped my brother check his old Tiguan last month. This component is usually installed at the top of the steering column, specifically right below the steering wheel. After removing the plastic cover under the steering wheel, you'll see a small square box with cables attached. But a reminder: always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on it! This thing is quite delicate, and operating with power on can easily burn out the control module. If it's a newer model with electronic power steering, the sensor might be integrated inside the steering gear. In that case, it's recommended to go directly to a repair shop.
As an experienced repair shop technician, this is a very common issue. The steering angle sensor in the Tiguan is typically fixed on the upper section of the steering column, at the center position of the steering wheel shaft. For models from 2009 to 2015, it's located next to the clock spring at the top of the steering column. Replacing it requires careful attention: you must disconnect the power before removing the steering wheel airbag, and after installation, a diagnostic tool must be used for steering angle sensor calibration. Just the other day, I encountered a case where the owner did the replacement themselves without calibration, resulting in the ESP light staying on and the car pulling to one side. For the third-generation Tiguan after 2016, it's even more complicated—the sensor is integrated into the electronic steering gear, located above the chassis guard plate.
