Skoda Superb Virtual Pedal Kick Sensor Alignment & Testing: A Practical Guide
When you are standing behind your Superb with arms full of shopping, kicking at the bumper like you are trying to score a penalty, and the boot still won’t open, you know the virtual pedal is having a bad day.
TL;DR
The Skoda Superb’s Virtual Pedal (also called Easy Open) uses two parallel sensor strips mounted on the inside of the rear diffuser, between the exhausts . For the system to work, your foot must pass across both sensor strips with a clear forward-and-back motion . Misalignment—where the two strips are too close together—causes the system to trigger accidentally or fail to respond . Testing involves checking the control unit (module 6D), the sensor strips, and the coding in modules 05 and 09 . A software update (recall action 96e2) fixed many Virtual Pedal problems on earlier Superbs .
Key Takeaways
- The Virtual Pedal uses two sensor strips mounted inside the rear diffuser
- Your foot must pass across both strips—not just wave around under the bumper
- Misaligned sensors cause both false triggers and missed activations
- Module 6D controls the tailgate opener, with coding in modules 05 and 09
- Recall 96e2 replaced the ECU and updated software on affected Superbs
- Dirt and grime on the bumper can block the sensors—keep them clean
- The sensor position influences function—correct alignment is critical
How the Virtual Pedal System Works
The Skoda Superb was the first Skoda model to offer the Virtual Pedal for contactless boot opening . The system works alongside KESSY (keyless entry) and the electric tailgate .
Here is the critical detail most owners miss: the system uses two parallel sensor strips that run the width of the rear diffuser, between the exhausts .
One strip runs along the edge/outside facing, while the other is on the inside, facing the spare tyre wheel well .
Your foot must go across both sensors—outside to inside, then back—to trigger the system . This is why a simple wave or a kick that only reaches one sensor does nothing.
The sensors are not visible from outside the car. They are mounted on the inside of the rear diffuser .
Common Problems: Misalignment and False Triggers
The “Trigger Happy” Problem
Many Superb owners report the boot closing on them while loading or unloading .
One owner described it perfectly: “You put your toes under the rear bumper whilst reaching into the far reaches of the cavernous boot, and it thinks this is a signal to close the lid on your head” .
This happens when the two sensor strips are positioned too close together . The system interprets any foot movement near the bumper as a valid kick gesture.
The “Won’t Open” Problem
The opposite problem—the boot refusing to open—often comes down to technique or sensor contamination.
Owners who have mastered the system describe the correct motion: “Just poke your foot under in the middle of the car and pull it straight out again. Just once and no waggling from side to side” .
Dirt and grime can also block the sensors. Multiple owners report that the Virtual Pedal works perfectly after a car wash but fails when the bumper is dirty .
Step-by-Step Testing Procedure
Step 1: Verify the Correct Technique
Before assuming a fault, confirm you are using the system correctly.
- Stand 30–60 cm from the rear bumper with the key in your pocket
- Make a clear forward motion with your foot under the centre of the bumper
- Pull your foot straight back—do not wave side to side
- Take a half-step backward and wait for the indicators to flash
If the boot opens reliably with this technique, the system is working. You just needed the right move.
Step 2: Check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes
Connect a diagnostic tool (VCDS, OBDeleven, or ODIS) and scan module 6D (Tailgate Opener) .
Look for codes related to:
- Sensor circuit faults (open or short)
- Missing calibration/basic settings
- Control unit communication errors
One owner found that clearing a stored fault code in the tailgate control unit restored Virtual Pedal function .
Step 3: Test the Sensor Strips
If codes point to the sensors, physical testing is required.
The sensors are mounted inside the rear diffuser. Access requires removing the lower rear bumper/diffuser .
Visual inspection:
- Check for damage to the sensor strips (cuts, kinks, detachment)
- Verify both strips are properly adhered to the diffuser surface
- Check the connectors for corrosion or loose pins
Alignment check:
- Confirm the two strips are spaced correctly apart—not too close, not too far
- The correct spacing ensures your foot crosses both during a normal kick motion
Step 4: Run the Output Test
Using VCDS or ODIS, navigate to module 6D and run the output test for the Virtual Pedal .
Look for:
- Control supply voltage parameters
- Sensor activation status during test
- Threshold values for sensor 1 and sensor 2
One owner had to run “Output tests → control_supply_voltage_vip” and wait for the test to complete before the system would calibrate properly .
Step 5: Check Coding in Modules 05 and 09
The Virtual Pedal requires correct coding across multiple modules .
Module 05 (Access/Start System):
- Byte9_VIP must be set to “active_vip”
- Coding_kick_and_close_function controls whether the kick gesture closes the boot
Module 09 (Central Electrics):
- Kick_and_close adaptation should be present and set to “installed”
Note: Some earlier hardware versions (like AN running AS software) do not have the kick-to-close adaptation available .
Comparison: Virtual Pedal Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Likely Cause | Test/Check | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boot won’t open | Wrong technique | Try straight in-out kick | Practice correct motion |
| Boot won’t open | Dirty sensors | Clean rear bumper | Wash the diffuser area |
| Boot closes accidentally | Sensors too close | Inspect strip spacing | Reposition sensor strips |
| Intermittent function | Stored fault code | Scan module 6D | Clear codes and retest |
| Never works | Software issue | Check for recall 96e2 | Dealer software update |
| Kick-to-close not working | Missing coding | Check module 05 Byte9 | Code Coding_kick_and_close |
Chart: Virtual Pedal Failure Causes
The Recall That Fixed Many Virtual Pedals
If you own an earlier Superb MK3 (around MY16–MY17) with Virtual Pedal problems, there is important news.
An official recall campaign called 96e2 was issued specifically for this function. The fix involved replacing the ECU and updating the software .
One owner reported: “They changed an ECU and updated some software. This actually solved my problem 100%. The function now works like a charm” .
If your Superb has never had this recall performed, contact your Skoda dealer and ask about campaign 96e2.
Real-World Impact: Why This Matters
The Virtual Pedal is one of those features that sounds gimmicky until you actually need it. When your hands are full of shopping bags or a sleeping child, being able to open the boot with a foot gesture is genuinely useful.
But when it fails, it becomes a source of frustration. Owners describe “standing like an idiot waving my leg” in car parks .
The key is understanding that the system is not magic—it is two strips of sensors that need a specific foot motion. Once you learn the correct technique and keep the sensors clean, it works reliably.
Always ensure the vehicle is stationary and the engine is off when using the Virtual Pedal. Never rely on it in an emergency situation.
FAQ
Why does my Superb’s Virtual Pedal open the boot but not close it?
Kick-to-close requires specific coding in module 05. Check the Coding_kick_and_close_function adaptation . Not all hardware versions support this feature.
Where exactly are the Virtual Pedal sensors located?
The two sensor strips are mounted on the inside of the rear diffuser, between the exhausts. They are not visible from outside .
Why does my Virtual Pedal trigger accidentally?
The two sensor strips are likely too close together. This causes the system to interpret any foot movement as a kick gesture . Repositioning the strips solves this.
What is the correct way to use the Virtual Pedal?
Stand 30–60 cm back, make a clear forward kick under the centre of the bumper, pull your foot straight back, then take a half-step backward .
Does dirt affect the Virtual Pedal?
Yes. Multiple owners report the system works after a car wash but fails when the bumper is dirty . Keep the diffuser area clean.
What is recall 96e2?
It is an official Skoda recall for Virtual Pedal problems on early Superb MK3 models. It replaced the ECU and updated software .
Can I disable the Virtual Pedal?
Yes. In the infotainment menu under “Opening and Closing”, uncheck the “Easy Open” option .
Final Thoughts
The Skoda Superb Virtual Pedal is a clever feature that works brilliantly when the sensors are aligned, the software is updated, and you know the correct foot motion.
If yours is misbehaving, start with the technique—a clean forward-and-back kick. Then check for dirt. Then scan for fault codes and check the coding. And if you have an early MK3, ask your dealer about recall 96e2 .
Always drive responsibly and follow local traffic laws. Never use the Virtual Pedal while the vehicle is in motion.
Which Skoda model best fits your driving needs? Share your thoughts in the comments.
References:
- BRISKODA – Virtual Pedal “Simply Unclever” (Sensor Alignment Discussion)
- BRISKODA – Virtual Pedal (Location and Towbar Issues)
- BRISKODA – Lasseman Activity (Recall 96e2 Experience)
- BRISKODA – Superb MK3 Kick-to-Close Coding (Module 05 and 09)
- SuperbClub.pl – Bezdotykowe otwieranie klapy bagażnika (Calibration and Coding Parameters)
