FAQ
TL;DR: For a 2013 Passat B7 EPB/ABS issue, two candidate encodings (22157/22167) are noted, and “depending on whether it is autohold or not.” [Elektroda, jacek074, post #16668187]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps DIYers and techs quickly pinpoint ABS long coding and EPB module pitfalls that trigger handbrake errors on Passat B7.
Quick Facts
- Vehicle context: Passat B7, 2013, 2.0 TDI 170 hp, station wagon. [Elektroda, ziomal4340, post #16663941]
- Symptom snapshot: Coding "accepted" but ABS remains 0010000 after entering 0021057. [Elektroda, ziomal4340, post #16663941]
- Candidate ABS encodings noted for controller suffix G: 22157 or 22167 (Auto Hold dependent). [Elektroda, jacek074, post #16668187]
- 2013 cars commonly show EPB module suffix H; some service advisors suggested J. [Elektroda, ziomal4340, post #16678580]
- ABS coding itself does not change on its own; suspect prior intervention or mismatch. [Elektroda, jacek074, post #16670125]
How do I fix ABS coding that keeps reverting to 0010000 on a Passat B7?
Confirm the exact controller suffix and equipment (Auto Hold, transmission, rear wiper, CCS). Try the noted long codings 22157 or 22167 for the G/H family where Auto Hold presence differs. If VCDS says “coding accepted” yet shows 0010000, you likely have a module/equipment mismatch or prior incorrect baseline. Re-verify with Long Coding Helper and your PR-codes before writing. “ABS encoding itself hasn’t changed by itself.” [Elektroda, jacek074, post #16670125]
What are the known ABS long-coding options mentioned for this case?
Community input for the controller with a G-ending lists two concise options: 22157 and 22167. Selection depends on whether Auto Hold is installed. Start with an autoscan, confirm Auto Hold, and test the appropriate option. If neither holds, your unit suffix or equipment set may differ from the donor coding. “Depending on whether it is autohold or not.” [Elektroda, jacek074, post #16668187]
Does the EPB module suffix matter (H vs J) for coding to stick?
Yes. The car in question originally used an H-suffix EPB. A service source suggested switching to J, but the owner believed H was original. Mixing suffix generations can block or reset long coding. Always match the suffix to the vehicle’s build and software level before attempting ABS long coding. [Elektroda, ziomal4340, post #16678580]
Why does VCDS show “coding accepted” but the value doesn’t change?
This usually indicates the controller accepted the frame but rejected the internal configuration due to feature mismatch. The display then returns to a safe baseline like 0010000. Re-check your equipment map and module suffix consistency. Capture an autoscan and adapt the coding accordingly. [Elektroda, ziomal4340, post #16663941]
How can I tell if I’m entering the right ABS code after replacing the handbrake module?
Record the original ABS long coding before part swaps. If lost, reconstruct using verified vehicle data, then write it. A peer reminder applies: “Check if you really have the correct code.” Use VIN options and PR-codes to guide the bits. [Elektroda, gangster1, post #16665254]
What do the ABS long-coding bit groups mean (Driver Assistance, MFSW, CCS, rear wiper)?
Bit groups toggle installed features: driver-assistance messaging, vehicle type, transmission, multi-function steering wheel, cruise/ACC, and rear wiper/board computer. Match each bit to installed equipment or coding will fail or revert. Use this map while building your final code. [Elektroda, Elektron 125, post #16669666]
What is Auto Hold and why does it change the ABS long coding?
Auto Hold maintains brake pressure at stops without pedal input. ABS/EPB coding sets a specific variant when Auto Hold exists. Selecting the wrong variant can cause handbrake errors or ignored coding. “Depending on whether it is autohold or not.” [Elektroda, jacek074, post #16668187]
What is an EPB (electronic parking brake) module?
The EPB module controls electric motors at the rear brakes and communicates with ABS/ESP. Its software and suffix must match vehicle features. A mismatched EPB can block correct ABS coding or raise DTCs. [Elektroda, ziomal4340, post #16678580]
Where is the G251 sensor and why might it trigger errors after coding?
G251 denotes a longitudinal acceleration or brake pressure-related reference in some platforms. After coding changes, the controller may flag it if variants mismatch. Verify wiring, sensor presence, and coding alignment before replacing parts. A B6 user reported G251-related trouble after entering an ABS code. [Elektroda, Stiwen1, post #18429659]
Can the dealership always recover the correct ABS coding?
Not always. In this case, the dealer could not complete ABS coding and suggested an EPB module with a J-suffix. If your vehicle originally had H, pushing J may not solve it. Arrive with the correct equipment list and old coding if possible. [Elektroda, ziomal4340, post #16678580]
What is CAN bus in this context?
CAN bus is the car’s data network linking ABS, EPB, steering, and other modules. If coding declares features the car lacks, CAN messages conflict and the ABS reverts. Keep coding aligned with actual CAN participants. “One wrong node can confuse the network.” [“Wikipedia: CAN bus”]
How do I rebuild ABS long coding when the original is unknown?
- Run a full autoscan and note module suffixes, PR-codes, and features.
- Map features to the bit groups provided (driver assistance, MFSW, CCS, rear wiper).
- Write the calculated code, cycle ignition, and recheck.
If it reverts, revisit Auto Hold and EPB suffix alignment. [Elektroda, Elektron 125, post #16669666]
What tools and data should I use (VCDS, ELSA, PR-codes)?
Use VCDS with Long Coding Helper to preview bit meanings. Cross-check with ELSA wiring/installation to confirm hardware presence. Build from the vehicle’s PR-codes when the prior coding is missing. This combination prevents the 0010000 fallback. [Elektroda, ziomal4340, post #16668505]
Does the year 2013 imply a specific EPB controller suffix?
A contributor noted that 2013 cars used H-suffix EPB modules. If your car carries H, stick with that baseline unless you confirm a supersession path. Swapping suffixes without validation complicates coding. [Elektroda, jacek074, post #16668490]
Is trying random ABS codes from the internet a good idea?
No. The original poster tried online codes without success. Blind attempts waste time and can trigger additional faults. Build coding from verified equipment and suffix data instead of guessing. [Elektroda, ziomal4340, post #16667955]
What does Driver-Assistance-Systems bit actually control here?
It sets whether driver-assistance messaging is active and whether a button exists. Choose the mode that matches your car’s hardware. Incorrect selection can produce warnings or coding rollback. Use the provided matrix during coding. [Elektroda, Elektron 125, post #16669666]
