Hello,

The last two weeks got cold here in Edmonton with snow. The Quattro has been great.

It's only happened 2 times the last week, but the ESP light will turn on randomly and stay on while driving. I have read other posts on these forums as well as other Audi forums indicating that it could be one of the following:

1. Brake Light Switch
2. Wheels are not strait (need alignment and calibration/wheel sensor)
3. Dif fluid low
4. There's a connector by the rear dif that could be corroded or damaged
5. Usually happens in cold weather

I have not come across a definite answer as to why it happens. I don't have the tool to have it scanned, that and the light goes off after I turn off the car and turn it back on. I have had the vehicle for 2 months now, it's never happened before the snow, that's the only thing that has changed in terms of the environment. No leaks anywhere.

Just wondering if anyone has had the same experience and have had it properly diagnosed. The ESP button is not engaged, that was the first thing I checked. I cannot replicate the issue either. I have tried to gun it and cause wheel spin (ESP light flashes, it works fine); I have braked hard causing ABS to engage, I have turned the wheel all the way over both directions, but still unable to make the light come on.

Any suggestions would be apprecaited!

C.

 

Could be cause by ice buildup on the wheel sensors as well. It's supposed to be magnetic based and counting pulses but crud can affect lots of thiings. Pulling an error code would be the best starting point towards resolution.

 

Thanks! I'll give it a good wash and see if it helps. It hasn't come on since, and the temperature has been warm, so most of the snow build up and what not has melted.

 

Just for fun I usually turn my esp off on my 2003 A4 quattro. Especially the first few snowfalls. It's awesome to get all four wheels spinnin.

 

Check your MAF sensor. I know it sounds weird, but when I left my sensor unplugged while finishing my spark plugs, my ESP light came on and would not go out.

Just an idea

 

Yep. check your maf.

 

I will do that.