DSC/BRAKE/ABS
 

So I got the DSC/BRAKE/ABS light issue. I flipped the gear in the transfer case motor and it didn't solve the issue. Mechanic recommends replacing the transfer case, which is quoted at around $4K.

Any advice?

before you do that, buy a code reader on eBay and pull the fault codes. It could be completely unrelated to the transfer case.

I agree, you need to read the diagnostic codes. Could be a $90 wheel speed sensor...

A generic code reader won't see the ABS/DSC specific codes on a BMW. A shop that works on BMW could read the codes for you for also if you don't want to buy your own code reader

Even if you do need a transfer case, I would look for a used unit. Maybe $400 ?

I literally just replaced this on mine. They had to replace the servo motor which was 800 for the part. Rarely do you ever need to replace the entire transfer case. Also is your brake light yellow or red?

For ABS, DSC error code a generic OBD reader is worthless. Get a copy of BMW Scanner 1.4 and a XP laptop.

Thanks. It's RED brake light and YELLOW ABS light, preceded by the 4x4 light. So the lights came back on when I let the mechanic, then driving home that night (about 12 miles) they didn't come on at all. Next day going into work, they did come on, but coming home, they did not. It seems to be driving better since the gear was flipped - less jerky

I have the Carly for iPhone. Is that a sufficient reader?

Same issue today. Drove in the AM and no lights. Longer drive to work and lights came on, but today the tire pressure light joined the party. I also noticed, when shutting the car off, I hear a ticking/grinding sound from the transfer case area.

That's classic transfer case gear wearing out. Good news is it's a very cheap fix

The mechanic said he flipped the gear when checking the other day. Could it be that he lied, trying to get the Transfer Case replacement job? Guess I'll have to order a gear and replace it completely and see what happens.

Or it was flipped once previously? Dunno. Would make me suspicious, too. But for $12, seems worth it just in case.