ABS/TCS - ESP Activates Too Early
45 08 032010335/3
November 5, 2008. Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 45 number 06-01 dated December 12, 2006 for reasons listed below.
Vehicle Information
45 ESP intervenes sooner than some drivers might expect
Condition
ESP warning light flashes while making long, sweeping turns (left or right) at speeds between 25-65 mph without exceeding the adhesion limits of the tires and without driving beyond the limits of the road. The flashing ESP warning light indicates that a corrective ESP intervention is taking place. No DTCs are stored in the ABS/ESP control unit. There is no compromise to the functionality or performance of the ESP.
Technical Background
Not applicable.
Production Solution
Improved ESP software.
Service
1. Consider the following points prior to making any repairs and/or performing in-depth diagnosis. These factors can influence functionality of the ESP.
- Zero position of the steering wheel angle sensor -G85- must be within an accuracy of +/- 5 degrees
- Verify correct steering rack is installed. Steering rack ratio can influence the ESP (e.g. S6 vs. Allroad)
- Verify vehicle alignment and tire pressures are within specification
- Verify vehicle ride height is within specifications
- Address any DTCs in the ESP or any other systems
2. Test drive vehicle to verify complaint. Only if the complaint and test drive results match the condition stated above should you proceed to the next step.
3. Check ESP control unit software level. If software level is D55 or lower, replace control module with D56 or higher version.
Tip:
Keep in mind that the ESP control unit in the ABS 5.3 system is located in the passenger foot well area (Figure 1).
1. After replacing ESP Control Module, it must be coded and basic settings must be initiated.
2. Verify repair via road test.
WARNING:
When performing the test drive in order to verify the repair, it is not necessary to push the vehicle to limits that require ESP intervention. The test drive must be identical to the one used to verify the complaint as described in the Condition section of this TSB.
Warranty
Required Parts and Tools
Additional Information
More information on this system can be found in the following resources:
- See Repair Manual, Brakes, Brake System On Board Diagnostic (OBD), - On Board Diagnostic (OBD), ESP On Board Diagnostic (OBD)
- SSP: 961903
The following repair procedure(s) will be necessary to complete this procedure:
- See Repair Manual; Brakes, - Brake System On Board Diagnostic (OBD), - 01 Self diagnosis, V.A.G Inspection Service, - ESP On Board Diagnostic (OBD)
- See Repair Manual; Brakes, - Brake System, - 45 ABS, ADR, TCS, EDL, ESP, - ABS/ESP system components, removing and installing, - ABS control module -J104- (with ESP), removing and installing
All part and service references provided in this TSB are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Dept. and service manuals for the latest information.