Trifecta simple question

[AV8R4AA]

I have been getting an intermittent trifecta.
It goes away sometimes on its own, sometimes if I restart
the X5.

I have an inexpensive code reader, but I think it is not enough to diagnose
ABS errors. I'm limited to my code reader for diagnostic equipment.
Is this problem a job for my Indy to figure out?

[crystalworks]

Unlock the cluster and monitor your voltage. Most of the times I see random trifectas (sometimes accompanied by trans failsafe errors) it's a voltage issue as a result of a failing alternator.

It's not 100% that's your issue, but it's probably where I'd start. You have a chain driven TC so no actuator gear failure as a possible cause. Wait, is this on the 4.4 or the 4.6. If 4.4 then the gear could be the issue, listen for a tell tale knocking noise upon shutoff right under the driver's seat.

[X53Jay4.8is]

Originally Posted by AV8R4AA

I have been getting an intermittent trifecta.
It goes away sometimes on its own, sometimes if I restart
the X5.

I have an inexpensive code reader, but I think it is not enough to diagnose
ABS errors. I'm limited to my code reader for diagnostic equipment.
Is this problem a job for my Indy to figure out?

Yes clarify which X5 you are referring to since your a dual X5 owner.

[jopecasa]

Originally Posted by AV8R4AA

I have been getting an intermittent trifecta.
It goes away sometimes on its own, sometimes if I restart
the X5.

I have an inexpensive code reader, but I think it is not enough to diagnose
ABS errors. I'm limited to my code reader for diagnostic equipment.
Is this problem a job for my Indy to figure out?

Maybe it's time to invest on BMW Specific diagnostic software/s.

And you'll be in-tune on what's going on with your Bimmers!

They're awesome tool and can tweak/code/adjust features not enabled from BMW factory.

And if you're stuck......members here are happy to help.

[AV8R4AA]

Sorry Guys,
I'm working on my 2003 4.6is trifecta ��
I haven't looked at advanced diagnostic equipment because
I'm an Apple guy. All computers here are Apple.

Actually, I have never owned a PC.
Can I buy software for Apple ��?

As for the alternator, the PO just replaced the water cooled unit about 500 miles ago.
I also looked and have a 1 month old Interstate Battery.
I haven't actually monitored the voltage, just assuming that charging system is not my problem.
I will do that this week.

[crystalworks]

On the 4.6, I'd be looking at the alternator. No software needed for this. Just unlock the cluster and monitor the voltage. See if when you get the trifecta it coincides with a dip or rise in the voltage.

There are other possible causes, but again, I'd start with the alternator since it's easiest to check. Are you moving everytime the error occurs or does it happen at a stand still too?

[AV8R4AA]

I have seen it light up at slow speeds, and at a standstill.

[X53Jay4.8is]

Originally Posted by AV8R4AA

Sorry Guys,
I'm working on my 2003 4.6is trifecta ��
I haven't looked at advanced diagnostic equipment because
I'm an Apple guy. All computers here are Apple.

Actually, I have never owned a PC.
Can I buy software for Apple ��?

As for the alternator, the PO just replaced the water cooled unit about 500 miles ago.
I also looked and have a 1 month old Interstate Battery.
I haven't actually monitored the voltage, just assuming that charging system is not my problem.
I will do that this week.

I can tell you that when this situation occurred on my 4.6is it was the ABS module. Well known problem. You will want to check the wheel speed sensors first to rule them out. Since your alternator is new and battery I would imagine its not a charging problem. I would bet its the ABS module. Been there done that.

[AV8R4AA]

Thanks Jay,
I had the same issue on my 5 series wagon.
I used Module Masters. Their price is 300.
They have an EBay company that charges much less.

Any good or bad with either company?

[crystalworks]

^Woops sorry Av8r... missed that the alt was new. Yes, I would follow Jay's advice then. Start cheap (wheel speed sensors) and then work your way up to the ABS module.