Confirmation please, steering angle sensor

Just searched and read all i could find but on the Fabia 1.9SDI classic 2001 with no ABS,ESP i think, can you just replace the sensor without recode with vag-com, dont think mines playing up but was gonna remove it and check it out and clean then replace whilst i check the fluid level in the PAS, got the battery off at moment charging and gonna check the wires to alternator. Me thinks might invest in new battery for starters....

spevie

any tips most welcome whilst under the bonnet ??