charlesghost8
BMW X1: ABS Light & Traction Control Issues, Help Needed
ABS warning light
ABS/DSC system is not working
Loss of traction
4 comment(s)
Thanks for sharing your experience! My X1 also shows the traction control light occasionally alongside the ABS light. I just had my service done at 26446 KM, and this issue started right after. It definitely acts up more when the engine is cold, especially during the first 10-15 minutes of driving. There's also a slight grinding noise when applying brakes, but it's not very loud. I'm a bit worried about the potential cost if it's indeed the ABS control unit. Would really appreciate if you could share more details about the repair process. Did they have to replace the entire unit, or was there some way to repair it? Really hoping it's just a sensor issue, but your experience makes me think I might be looking at something more serious.
Hey again! Thanks for those extra details about your X1. Yeah, what you're describing sounds even more similar to what I experienced with my X3 now that you mention the additional symptoms. The grinding noise and the traction control light were exactly what I dealt with too. In my case, they did have to replace the entire ABS control unit. Unfortunately, these units aren't typically repairable because they're sealed electronic components. I first tried the cheaper route and had them check all the sensors, but the diagnostic tests showed the unit itself was failing. The symptoms getting worse during cold starts was a big red flag for the control unit issue. The repair took about a day, they had to order the part, do the replacement, and then reprogram the new unit to work with my car's systems. The programming part is crucial, and that's why it needs to be done at a proper shop with BMW diagnostic equipment. One thing I learned, if you're experiencing this, don't wait too long to get it fixed. I tried driving with it for a few weeks, and it just got progressively worse. Plus, you really don't want to be without properly functioning ABS and traction control. Let me know if you end up getting it checked out. I'm curious if it turns out to be the same issue. Fingers crossed it's something simpler, but these symptoms are pretty spot-on with what I experienced.
Thanks so much for all this detailed info! This is super helpful, especially knowing about the programming part, definitely not something I can get done at a regular shop. You're right about not waiting too long; I'll schedule an appointment first thing tomorrow. Really not worth risking safety issues with faulty ABS and traction control. I'll definitely keep you posted about what they find. I was hoping it wouldn't be the control unit, but after hearing your experience and comparing the symptoms, I'm pretty much preparing myself for similar news. Guess I better start saving up for that repair bill! Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, it's given me a much better idea of what I might be dealing with. Will update you once I know more!
Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2016 BMW X3 last year. I have some experience working on cars, but nothing too advanced. The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I went through. My ABS light came on, and the car was behaving strangely with inconsistent acceleration. Initially thought it was a speed sensor too, but after taking it to my trusted mechanic, they diagnosed a defective ABS control unit. The repair cost me around 1000 Euro, but it completely solved the problem. Before jumping to conclusions, could you share: Are there any other warning lights on? Does it happen more when the engine is cold or warm? Have you noticed any unusual sounds when braking? If you want, I can share more details about the repair process. The X1 and X3 share similar components, so your issue might be related.