ABS not working but ABS light is

Post Sun Dec 13, 2009 6:15 pm

I have searched the forum for this fault but have found nothing.

The ABS light behaves as if the ABS works, it lights up and goes out when driving. The ABS does not work - the wheels lock and the pedal does not 'pump' on loose ground.
I have checked the control panel and there does not seem to be any suspicious wiring to the oil light.

Anyone come across this fault before?

Post Sun Dec 13, 2009 8:26 pm

Yes the ABS only works at speed, not sure what the lower level it is set to on the e30 but most others only work down to 10 mph below that the wheels lock.

Post Mon Dec 14, 2009 4:46 pm

The self test light is for the sensors, Sometimes metal flakes build up on the sensors,(they're magnetic) and stop them from working, take the wheels off one at a time, remove the sensors, 1 5mm allen key bolt, clean the sensor head with a clean cloth and refit with a little grease on the bolt (they seize for fun).

Also if the notched wheels on the hubs are full of crap then the system can get confused, wire brush job with the wheels off.