SureTrack Community Fix: BMW on the Blink

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Real Fixes from the SureTrack® expert information resource are documented issues from actual shop repair records and community discussions. Read on to see how SureTrack can help you correct issues that are not easily diagnosed using OEM information alone. SureTrack is available at no additional cost in our ProDemand product.

When you have a blinking warning light but no symptoms or codes, and usual testing doesn’t find the cause, what do you do? SureTrack community member MIKEMCCOYS had a BMW 325Ci with a blinking ABS light but no codes and the ABS working. They posed the question to the community, and with the help of fellow community member Richard_C and others, they were able to resolve the issue quickly.

The following Community Fix summarizes the interaction between members of the community that led to the solution.

Vehicle
2002 BMW 325Ci 2.5L

Title
ABS light blinking, replaced ABS module.

Complaint
Customer complains that ABS light flashes in instrument cluster.

Diagnostic Steps Performed/Parts Replaced
Verified customer’s complaint. No ABS or other codes. ABS actually functions on hard stops. The frequency of the blinking lamp is about 2 per second. Scan for codes. Verified ABS control module function by creating codes. I am truly lost here.

Best Answer from Community Member Richard_C
Can you monitor each individual wheel sensor? That should tell you something. Common issue is just a bad ABS unit. There are lots of places that rebuild them for about $150.

Cause
The ABS pump and module were at fault. the master cylinder had leaked onto the ABS module and damaged it. Salvage yard unit for $150 and a $125 program fee at dealer. Used replacement vehicle must have the same features, such as DSC or Stability Control. Our dealer really helped us out on it by crossing the VIN from the donor car to ours. Thanks to all who jumped in here with us.

Correction
Replaced ABS unit with used unit and had programmed at dealer. ABS light no longer flashing on cluster.

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About the Author

Nick Taylor

Nick Taylor is the SureTrack Community Administrator and a Senior Applications Specialist at Mitchell 1 with over 25 years of experience with electronic repair data systems. Nick previously worked in the automotive dismantling and engine rebuilding industries.