ABS and Run Flat Warning Lights

[dannyhoffman]

Hi,

I have a 2004 Mini One and following the MOT a couple of months ago the ABS and run flat warning lights were on. I assumed it was something to do with the brake test as after an hour or so they both cleared.

I serviced the car a couple of weeks ago and all the tyres were a bit low, so I pumped them up (I know I should check them more regularly!). Since then either one or both lights have been on intermittently. Resetting the the run flat system seemed to help for a bit, but not permanently.

Reading through the various posts about this I have cleaned the ABS sensors' connectors and smeared some silicone grease on them. I will leave the battery disconnected over night to reset the computer. Is there any way to test the sensors? I used to have Puma and I could test the sensors on this with a meter, they had a resistance. However all the ones on the Mini appear to be open circuit. I assume they are not all faulty!

If my only option is to read the computer, can any recoomend a suitable reader?

Thanks

Danny

[BigJC]

Hi Danny

Had the same thing happen on my s, turned out to be a faulty front wheel speed sensor. Unfortunately it is very difficult to remove the sensors without damaging them so trial and error is an expensive approach!

I managed to use BMW INPA diagnostics to identify which sensor, however I am not sure that a standard OBD code reader tells you which one failed. So, either obtain a verion of INPA and the correct OBD cable (£50+) or take it to a dealer and pay them to read the faults (about £50). Personally I would go the INPA route as it can read almost anything BMW, but be aware that the latest version I have seen only reads some systems, not all. This maybe because mine is a facelifted car. Read everything on my 5 series though!

Cheers

Jonathan

[dannyhoffman]

Hi,

I decided to invest in a OBD fault code reader, after a bit of investigation I confirmed the cheaper £20 jobbies won't read the ABS error codes, so I ended up buying an Autel MaxiDiag EU702 for just over £200. It was very easy to use and instantly diagnosed a faulty nearside front ABS sensor.

My local BMW dealer didnt have one, but Eurocarparts did and it's all sorted now.

Thanks for your help

Danny

[jayk]

Hi

i just bought the scan tool Autel EU702 to reset my airbag light. today finally i got a chance to use but it keeps saying Linking Error no matter how many times i try. i checked the wire, battery and ignition but nothing wrong at all.

i have no idea how to fix it. anyone has similar experience ?