Ask Honest John

Honest John Ask Honest John » Why is my Golf's ESP light permanently on?

Why is my Golf's ESP light permanently on?

I own a 2008 Volkswagen Golf with 68,000 miles on the clock. Recently the ESP warning light has come on. Pressing the ESP button has no affect. Will this cause an MoT failure?

Given its notorious nature for not being fit for purpose what do you think the chances of getting Volkswagen to pay for or at least make a contribution towards the repair of the unit?

Asked on 9 December 2016 by Ken Lees

Answered by Honest John
Common fault on the Mk V which is fitted with the notorious ATE Teves Mk 60 ABS/ESP module. Needs the brake pressure sensor replacing. Can be done by www.ecutesting.com if you send them the complete module for about £400.

VW was coughing up until August 2015, basically taking the view that once the model was more than 6 years old it had no further liability. Its dealers are now well versed with the ecutesting fix.

Looking for a garage you can trust? Honest John's Good Garage Guide has thousands of reader recommended garages, plus how-to guides and tips on servicing.

The Good Garage Guide
Similar questions
Can you tell me why the emission light keeps switching on my 2004 Volkswagen Golf?
I have a Golf Mk5 1.6 FSI 2005 model. The EPC light has come on permanently and it flashes when the engine is warm and the car is at idle. Had this problem before and my non-VW garage (who are very good...
The engine management light came on about 6 months ago and says emissions workshop. I took it to the garage and they plugged into diagnostics machine, but said it just came up with random misfire. All...
Related models
Decent handling and comfortable on the move, impressive TSI engines, massive improvement over the previous Golf, high-economy Bluemotion models, high quality feel of interior, five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.