intermittant problem

[mastayoda]

Hi, i have an annoying problem with my s3 that is very annoying and only happens occasionally.

The traction control loght comes on and stays on, then if you stop, say to get fuel you drive away and it stays off again.

any ideas are appreciated

cheers

Ollie

 

[Tastyterrier]

The traction control light staying on is usually telling you that you have a sensor out (like if you drive with the MAF disconnected). Get it on the old VAG-COM and see if any codes are thrown up

 

[mastayoda]

cool ive got an audi specialist in my village, so ill see if they can put it on their vag com.

seems to do it more oftern when its wet weather, than in the dry, sound sensorish. Hopefully they are not too much of a rip off.

 

[MarkyB]

You can buy a cheap VAG-COM lead from eBay, which you hook up to a Laptop - you'll need a long USB lead to reach a desktop PC - the freebie software will allow you to run the basic diagnostics that'll tell you which sensor has failed.

http://www.audi-sport.net/vb/showthread.php?t=38156

From the sounds of it, it could be the Longitudinal Acceleration Sensor (G251)

http://www.audi-sport.net/vb/showthread.php?t=38175

It's a common problem, do a search on the forums, see above post for details on how to replace it. You can order a replacement from VAGParts

 

[mastayoda]

thanks very much, i had no idea that i could do this, being new to audis and stuff, seems like a seriously worth while investment :thumbsup:

 

[Shades]

Good thread... I have this exact same problem with my A4. I've now mastered switching the car off and back on again quick enough so my CD doesn't stop playing! (Not sure if this is good for the car though it doesn't 'seem' to mind!)

 

[Caesium]

Mind your steering lock!

 

[Shades]

Mind your steering lock!

I had thought about this so I only ever do it when going in a straight line (and don't have to turn the steering wheel) and there is nothing else around me.

 

[Caesium]

Actually the lock only comes on when you take the key right out so you should be okay.
(was just being safety conscious)

 

[D-Tech Performance]

quite possaibly wheel speed sensor related if you are local give me a ring and i can have a look for you

 

[mastayoda]

where abouts are you located?

 

[Stewart]

Do a search also as I and others have covered this topic at length.

It is most commonly the lateral acceleration sensor (G200 - Physically Smaller of the 2) or the Longitudinal Acceleration Sensor (G251- Physically larger of the 2).

Both will show the symptoms you are describing.

Depending on the year of manufacture, the Longitudinal Acceleration Sensor will either be behind the glovebox or mounted on the same bracket as the lateral acceleration sensor underneath and to the left of the steering column.