Power steering failure, VW Sharan 7N, error code 00573

Hello everyone!

Last week, the power steering suddenly failed on my VW Sharan, model 7N, manufactured in 2015, with a 140 HP TDI engine. Without any warning, a loud beeping sound (3 times) occurred, along with the red warning light for power steering. Almost simultaneously, the power steering assist stopped working. This happened just before a roundabout and was quite alarming. Moreover, this vehicle is really difficult to steer without power steering, and the "surprise" factor made it even worse. It probably takes a few seconds to even realize what's happening.
Okay, enough about the story.

Please find attached an Autoscan.

This weekend, I delved deeper into the issue and found the following: The culprit appears to be the G269 sensor. I experimented with VCDS and noticed that at least one channel of the sensor is producing seemingly plausible values. Depending on the force applied to the steering wheel and the direction of steering, corresponding values are displayed. The second channel is constantly stuck at 8.4 Nm, no matter what you do.
Following this, I disconnected and inspected the short cable between the sensor and the control unit: the connectors are clean, there's no sign of moisture ingress, nothing is bent, etc. The cable itself appears undamaged from the outside. I didn't measure any continuity. After reconnecting, the error "00573 - Steering torque sensor (G269)" reappeared.

Inquiries with workshops (VW and independent) revealed that the earliest available appointment is in 3 to 4 weeks. I'm now considering replacing the part myself. Regarding screws, I'm certainly not a beginner.

Before that, however, I would still like to order a new cable and try using it.

My question: Is it actually possible to replace the entire steering gear assembly yourself? The mechanical installation isn't a problem. However, I have two questions:

1.) Connect the steering shaft to the upper stub of the steering gear (marked in red). I can't determine whether there is a toothed connection or a wedge present. However, it seems logical that a precise alignment is necessary. A wedge would simplify the process. Correcting the alignment later seems impossible without disassembly. Therefore, I'm wondering what the best approach is here? Would it be sufficient to steer straight ahead and fix the steering wheel before disassembly, and then ensure that the new steering gear is, so to speak, in a straight-ahead position during installation? If there were to be any interlocking parts, I imagine that would be very difficult.

2.) Installation and configuration of the new steering system. It's important to remember that there are other sensors located in the steering system within the vehicle. An initial "calibration" will be necessary, in some form or another. Will VCDS be able to handle that?

Thank you in advance!

Hello,

Unfortunately, I've never had any experience with the steering torque sensor. However, before you start working on it, I strongly advise you to carefully check and test the wiring of the sensor. Are there any kinks or breaks in the cable? Is the cable rubbing against anything? Did a pin/contact slide backward in one of the connectors?

Best regards, Rainer.

Hello! Thank you for the quick response.

Regarding your questions.

1. Previously, the universal joint that connects the steering column and the steering gear was fitted with a pin.

2. The new steering rack needs to be adapted to the coding of the old one, and, as you already mentioned, it needs to be reprogrammed. I cannot say for sure whether the entire procedure can be completed using VCDS.

Hello everyone!

For those who might be interested: After installing a new steering rack, certain data sets (characteristic curves) need to be loaded.
Since electromechanical steering systems of a specific type are typically installed in various vehicle models, this "calibration" or "initialization" process must be performed. A VW Polo handles differently than a Sharan, although that's an exaggeration.

VCDS is not capable of doing that. Therefore, you need to visit a Volkswagen service center.

LG
Manuel.