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I thought I'd share what I've learnt to save others time and effort...

If you order a factory fit towbar on a new VW Passat, then the Engine Management Computer (ECU) has the Trailer Stabilisation Programme (TSP) already enabled. This is an extension to the vehicle's Stability Control, and uses the car's sensors to detect trailer snaking, and takes over control of the car's accelerator and brakes to bring the trailer back under control.

If, like me, you bought a new Passat and then fitted an aftermarket towbar, then there are two options.

The cheap option is to get a towbar, and bypass the ECU electronics by means of a bypass relay. This means that the TSP will not be available. Prices I was quoted were about £250~300 for twin electrics including fitting.

The more expensive option is to get a towbar with what they call Vehicle Specific Electrics. This does have the ability to interface with the ECU. I paid £410 to have one fitted. I then paid another £90 for a VW dealer to reprogramme the ECU to enable the TSP. Whilst they were at it the VW dealer also modified the rear parking sensors to be disabled when towing.

Hopefully I will never need the TSP, but I was willing to pay the extra as peace of mind insurance against snaking.  

Incidentally my Passat tows very well, its a 2.0 TDI 140 Estate and has plenty of low down torque. Its max tow is 1800Kg, and my local public weighbridge weighed it at 1500Kg.

I would guess then that means there are some form of lateral motion sensors in the rear of the passat?

Hate to state the obvious, but the computer is not insurance against snaking in the same way a leafspring stabiliser is, The computer is "last moment safety" ie it only works when things are already going wrong. Not a substitute for good loading and good driving, but unfortunately there will doubtless be someone out there on the road who thinks it is "its ok the computer will sort it out for me"

"The best driver safety aid money can buy is a very sharp 6 inch spike in the centre of the steering wheel" Cant remember the exact source of that quote Im afraid

>>I would guess then that means there are some form of lateral motion sensors in the rear of the passat?

Correct, they are part of the Stability Control which is standard on all new Passats.

And I agree with you DirtyDisco...  I also have a leafspring stabiliser, tow at 86%, stick to 60 MPH, load the Caravan correctly, etc. etc.

The TSP is just another pair of braces to add to my belt collection...