ABS Module Rebuild Twist - UPS lost package

[Ozzy474]

Posting to share my story.

Last week my 2001 BMW X5 3.0 (5-speed manual) had the classic trifecta appear. Using INPA I was able to diagnose it as a failure of the Separate Valve (Code 98) and Code 54 Fault, inlet valve, front left.

I removed the ABS module (also removed the headlight for access), carefully packaged it and sent it via UPS with tracking information on Wednesday 7/29. I sent it to cheap-abs.com (Matt Mallory) who charges $200 for the rebuild, and from what I've read online has good reviews. Unfortunately UPS lost the package. Extremely frustrated as now I get to either 1) purchase a new module which is very $$$ and code, or 2) chance buying a used module and recoding it via NCS Expert. I haven't coded much before, but from what I've read seems straightforward enough.

I think I'm going to wait a few days hoping the package happens to turn up, but I'm not holding my breath. Feel free to share if you've had a similarly frustrating / unfortunate experience trying to fix something on your E53.

[PalmSpringsE534.6]

How much did you declare as value with UPS so it's insured? Module Repair Pros not only rebuild on demand but also sell rebuilt units you can recode to your vin. Hopefully, it will show up. If not, then hopefully the UPS insurance will cover your costs.

[Ozzy474]

Unfortunately I did not spring for additional insurance outside of the standard $100. I've never had a package go missing before, so unfortunately that's on me. No updates with my tracking information except UPS has started the claims process while they "search" for it.

Luckily I can drive my e36 M3 for a bit while the X5 sits. If nothing happens by end of week looks like I'll be buying and coding a module.

[PalmSpringsE534.6]

FYI..you can drive your X without the ABS module. I did for about 2 weeks.

[Ozzy474]

Did you have any issues with having to reprogram / re-calibrate the steering angle sensor after driving it without the ABS module?

Also good news, UPS notified me today they located my package. Somehow it ended up in Kentucky (when it was supposed to go to Kansas). However, the guy I engaged to repair the module is out of town until 8/16, so looks like it will be two weeks before the X5 is back in action. I requested a refund of the shipping cost today as I had delivery scheduled for last Friday and the UPS response wasn't great. Basically was told it wasn't their problem, and they are busy. Looks like I'll be using Fedex from now on.

[PalmSpringsE534.6]

Yes, I had to reset the SAS. That's easy...tons of info online. I used my handheld to reset it knowing the wheels were "straight"....there's also a procedure where you turn the wheel in both directions to reset it. Don't sweat that although I was a tad maddening that the trifecta of lights stayed on until that was accomplished. Lights are gone and so are my Trans Failsafe issues that accompanied it.

[Purplecty]

Let module repair pros do it! They rebuilt mine and several others ABS Modules successfully!

https://www.shop.modulerepairpro.com/main.sc

[Clavurion]

Steering angle sensor needs to be initialised anyways unless the steering wheel is exactly in the same position as it was when the module was removed.

[Ozzy474]

Posting an update to the thread. I received my module back yesterday 8/21 and installed it on my X5 - the package was finally located in the postal system. Unfortunately the error code for the front left inlet valve (DSC code 54) remains. I have contacted the company I had rebuild it and hopefully will be receiving a refund or credit towards a rebuilt module, but haven't heard anything yet.

On the bright side, my speedometer and cruise control now work again and the three other valve errors have not returned. It seems there's just something with that portion of the module (front left inlet valve), that is badly damaged or not repaired properly.

I've been able to fully clear the error codes in INPA (lights go off on the dash), but within a few seconds of powering the car on and beginning to drive, that error code returns. When I manually activate via INPA that particular valve the error immediately comes back.

A bit frustrated to say the least.

[Clavurion]

If the module internal ground wiring (3 wires between connector and board) has been failing for longer time the module is usually beyond reasonable repair. (Causing valve or valve relay faults.)