FAQ
TL;DR: 3276° ABS reading and "the steering wheel position in the middle shows -36 degrees" point to a failed basic setting after crash; fix involves correct adaptation, stable voltage, and sometimes dealer online calibration. This FAQ helps VW Polo/Ibiza owners and techs resolve EPS/SAS faults. [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16726401]
Why it matters: Power steering and stability control stay disabled until the steering angle sensor (SAS) is learned correctly.
Quick Facts
- Typical fault set: P160900 (crash shutoff), U042800 (SAS invalid), C116854/B116854 (basic setting not executed/incorrect). [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16726401]
- On 2016 Polo, the SAS is integrated in the electric steering column, not the steering wheel module. [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16800917]
- Adaptation may require a stable charger due to voltage-drop sensitivity during procedures. [Elektroda, jacek074, post #16806649]
- The basic setting can complete while driving if wheel speeds match during straight travel. [Elektroda, zyganps, post #16808361]
- Some cases need online calibration at a dealer service portal. [Elektroda, Paull.pp, post #17973496]
What does error P160900 mean after an accident on a VW Polo 2016 1.2 TSI?
P160900 indicates the electric power steering switched off due to a crash event stored by the airbag controller. Clearing and reinitializing can temporarily restore assist, but unresolved SAS/ABS faults keep warnings lit. Ensure the SAS basic setting completes to clear the EPS light. [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16726401]
Why is my red steering warning on even though the wheel turns normally?
The EPS module can show assist while the warning remains if the SAS basic setting failed. In one case, the wheel centered at −36° and the ABS saw a fixed angle, so the light stayed on. Complete SAS adaptation to synchronize EPS and ABS. [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16726401]
How do I fix U042800 “steering angle sensor invalid signal” in ABS?
Drive straight and perform SAS adaptation so ABS can validate the angle against equal left/right wheel speeds. If speeds align, the module finalizes zeroing and clears the invalid-signal fault. Keep the road and tires consistent during the learn drive. [Elektroda, zyganps, post #16808361]
What does C116854/B116854 “basic setting not executed/incorrect” mean?
The EPS module did not complete the SAS basic setting. Until it succeeds, stability control and steering warnings remain active. Perform the adaptation with correct preconditions and verify no conflicting ABS faults persist before retrying. [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16806050]
Where is the steering angle sensor on a 2016 Polo (6C)?
For this model year, the SAS is integrated into the electric steering column assembly. It is not a separate sensor under the steering wheel module. Replacement or coding must match the column’s integrated electronics. [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16800917]
ABS shows a constant 3276° steering angle—what does that indicate?
A stuck or out-of-range SAS value prevents calibration. One case logged a constant 3276° in ABS and diagnostic tools refused zeroing as out of tolerance. Inspect wiring, column integration, and complete a proper adaptation. [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16726401]
Do I need dealer online calibration to finish SAS adaptation?
Some Ibiza/Polo systems require an online routine via the manufacturer service portal. Independent tools failed until the workshop executed the online procedure, after which EPS and ABS accepted the angle. “I had to do it online on the site.” [Elektroda, Paull.pp, post #17973496]
Should I connect a charger during steering angle adaptation?
Yes. Technicians report voltage-drop sensitivity on these electric columns. Use a stabilized charger during coding and adaptation to prevent resets or failed learns. “Try to adapt with the connected charger.” [Elektroda, jacek074, post #16806649]
Will correct wheel alignment alone clear the EPS/ABS warnings?
No. Even with confirmed alignment, unresolved SAS basic setting or ABS angle recognition will keep warnings on. Complete the adaptation so both EPS and ABS agree on zero. Alignment supports, but does not replace, calibration. [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16726401]
How do I perform a basic steering angle adaptation (quick steps)?
- Clear faults, then initiate SAS basic setting with your diagnostic tool.
- Drive straight on a level road so left/right wheel speeds match.
- Stop with wheels straight; confirm the procedure reports “finished” and clear residual codes.
“Sensor adapts while driving and compares these values.” [Elektroda, zyganps, post #16808361]
Could a mismatched pump or column cause persistent EPS faults?
Yes. The power steering pump/column must match the original part number. Using a different-number unit can block adaptation and keep the warning on. Verify part numbers before coding or further diagnostics. [Elektroda, panstalin2, post #16729612]
After replacing the column, ABS still doesn’t see the SAS—what next?
Verify terminals/pins are assigned correctly and reattempt the basic setting. A reported case showed ±2 steps at straight-ahead in EPS but ABS still could not read angle. Focus on ABS communication and repeat adaptation. [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16794227]
Could incorrect reassembly after a crash cause these issues?
Yes. An improperly assembled steering column after an accident can lead to failed basic settings and inconsistent angle values. Inspect mechanical alignment and column installation before software adaptation. [Elektroda, szymitsu21, post #16730618]
Do I need to recode modules when only mechanical parts were changed?
If no control units changed, focus on adaptation rather than recoding. Provide exact fault numbers from VCDS when requesting help, then run proper learns in ABS and steering assist. [Elektroda, ireneusz1981, post #16804090]
Edge case: my tool says the angle is outside tolerance—what does it mean?
Your diagnostic reported the SAS value out of tolerance because the ABS saw an implausible fixed angle. Fix wiring/assembly first, then redo the basic setting to bring readings into range. [Elektroda, ptr92, post #16726401]
