So my brakes parts are on order and in the meantime I get the infamous "Parking Brake Malfunction". After reading all the posts I could on the issue, I am thinking I will do the following in the order written:

1. I usually engage the parking brake before turning engine off and now understand that this could cause errors. i will release the parking brake manually, drive it around for a bit and then engage the parking brake once the engine is off. Wait at least 30 minutes to see if yellow dash warning has disappeared. Apparently 30 minutes or so is required to allow all on-board computers to reboot/reset.

2. Examine the connector to the parking brake control module and actuator. If looks suspect try to repair this.

3. Install new brake rotors, pad and sensors all round. Was going to do this anyway and parts are already ordered.

4. Replace the control module.

Please let me have any recommendations or suggestions?

I have a few questions:

1. Where is the control module (EMF) located?

2. I have read that if the control unit is replaced that it needs to be "reprogrammed". Is this true? has anyone attempted this themselves? I have NCS expert for my E46 M3, can I use this if I need to reprogram the control module on the X5?

3. Anyone have part number for the control module that was replaced?


In the interests of sharing valuable information with the community I will post back my findings and do a DIY if I replace the control unit.

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2008 X5 4.8i BSM/Blk - premium, sports with 20" 214s, navigation, rear climate, adaptive ride, dark bamboo, running boards, 3rd row seats, USB audio, high speed maximum, etc etc

Mods: Smoked reflectors | Hoen xenon match fogs and angel eyes | LED plate bulbs | 18" winter wheels

Other vehicles: 2002 M3 Vert TiAG/Blk - with every option and many mods | 2009 Chevy Silverado LTZ - fully loaded