fixed towbar vs. PDC on a Passat

[moose-P]

Hi there - second post and already asking a question!!

Just fitted a Bosal fixed towbar to the back of our recently purchased '05 Passat Highline estate ...... and the PDC "see's" it as soon as reverse is engaged

What can be done to overcome this? We need the fixed towbar to be able to attach a bicycle carrier.

Do I have to (can I even?) disconnect the two "inner" sensors nearest the tow-ball?

[towcestervag]

read post by PNS2007 it has 46 answers this may help
i thoght if the wiring was set correctly then if the electric socket was in it cut of the reverse sensors and rear fog

[moose-P]

The problem isn't when it has a trailer connected (not got that far yet ), but without, just in normal "solo" use

[martin1810]

This is a common problem. It depends on the make of tow bar and the exact position of the sensors. Have you checked to see if the sensors are detecting the bar or the electrics plate & socket. It might be possible to reposition the plate and socket.

[moose-P]

This is a common problem. ....... Have you checked to see if the sensors are detecting the bar or the electrics plate & socket. It might be possible to reposition the plate and socket.

thanks Martin,

There are no electrics installed yet - just the (fixed Bosal) towbar itself. I'm going to take it to a local towing specialist to get the wiring done. Although it has ESP, I'm assuming that there is nothing particularly difficult in wiring the electrics, unlike later B6 Passats

I think the sensors are "seeing" the hitch plate itself, so might have a look and see if it is possible to tweak the angle they view at I am only going to have single electrics, so will be able to mount them below/behind the sensors .....

[martin1810]

If you are a just doing trailer electrics you can do it yourself. Plenty of info on here for the Golf & Passat. The rear lights even have terminals ready to add the extra wires. I would always use a bypass relay. You can ignore the esp. You may be able to tweak the sensors by encouraging them to tilt away abit.