Trifecta question

[Black-Forest]

I have searched the threads but have yet to come across a reasonable solution to my DSC issue in our recently purchased 00' X5 4.4.These lights were on when we bought the vehicle. I've scanned the ABS system and found.

- Front right wheel speed sensor open circuit
- Front left wheel speed sensor open circuit

The above are hard codes and won't clear. I have replaced the offending front sensors with no success. I also get

- Steering angle sensor open circuit

This code resets with my Snap on Solus scanner but will come back when re-scanned a few days later. I also feel the Left rear sensor has an issue as intermittently I will loose the speedo. When the speedo goes out the brake warning light goes from amber to red. Speedo resets when the car is restarted. It seems odd to have so many "open circuit" codes. Charge rate average is 13.6V and does bounce around a bit but not below 13.2V and battery is new. I have a feeling it maybe time to replace the DSC module but thought I would check in with those who have experience this system. Any direction would be greatly appreciated.

[bmw540san]

Have you made sure that there is no damage to wiring to either offending sensor?

Are the replacement sensors OEM or aftermarket? I never had an issue with VDO which is basically identical to BMW. Any other brand and you're taking chances.

It's curious that you have steering angle sensor code and both front speed sensors. Logically, it could be this last code causing issues with 2 first ones but it's only a guess.

[CapeX5]

This is a common problem, but there seem to be unique problems to each time it happens. Very confusing I know. Even though you replaced the wheel sensors, I think your ABS module is still the root of the problem. I would highly recommend sending it to BBA and have them go thru it. It is $250 well spent and I am confident that with the age of your car it is time to have it looked at. This problem will have you pulling your hair out. I had mine done last year and it has been problem free since. Keep us posted on how you make out.

[upallnight]

Originally Posted by Black-Forest

I have searched the threads but have yet to come across a reasonable solution to my DSC issue in our recently purchased 00' X5 4.4.These lights were on when we bought the vehicle. I've scanned the ABS system and found.

- Front right wheel speed sensor open circuit
- Front left wheel speed sensor open circuit

The above are hard codes and won't clear. I have replaced the offending front sensors with no success. I also get

- Steering angle sensor open circuit

This code resets with my Snap on Solus scanner but will come back when re-scanned a few days later. I also feel the Left rear sensor has an issue as intermittently I will loose the speedo. When the speedo goes out the brake warning light goes from amber to red. Speedo resets when the car is restarted. It seems odd to have so many "open circuit" codes. Charge rate average is 13.6V and does bounce around a bit but not below 13.2V and battery is new. I have a feeling it maybe time to replace the DSC module but thought I would check in with those who have experience this system. Any direction would be greatly appreciated.

Most likely the connectors to the wheel sensors from the car harness side has been damaged. The plastic gets hard/brittle over the years and when you go to disconnect the connectors, the connectors fall apart. When and if they replaced the damaged connector, the wires has to go in a specific way, you can't change the position of the wire/pins and expect it to work.

I would purchase two new replacement connector (ECS Tuning) and redo those connectors.

[Black-Forest]

I admittedly did use aftermarket speed sensors for a quick test. Connectors weren't brittle and I do know what you mean as I have come across this in the past. I did inspect the wires as best as possible and found no breaks from what I could see. I reached out to a friend of mine that has some good ABS module experience on VW's etc and he mentioned it's real common to get broken solder joints inside the module and he has had success reflowing the solder joints. Currently I'm stuck on sliding the release on the connector at the module. Its really tight and I'm concerned about breaking it.... Anyone with a trick to release it please chime in I will update as I go through the process. Thanks to all

[David.X5]

Bad DSC module will cause phantom sensor codes. I'd start looking hard at the DSC module

[Black-Forest]

I agree. Just so I'm getting it right the DSC module is attached to the ABS pump? I would have classified it as an ABS module but in BMW vernacular its a DSC module?

[David.X5]

Sorry. Didn't mean anything by that. ABS module. Lots of places to get it rebuilt

[Black-Forest]

No problem David just wanted to make sure I was attacking the right module.

[David.X5]

I use this spray or similar electrical contact cleaner / lube on those sliding connectors. They do seem to get jammed with gunk and grit. Look for one that says plastic safe.

CRC 2-26 5 oz. Multi-Purpose Lubricant 02004 at The Home Depot - Mobile