Dash warning lights

[Chazzy]

I was happily driving along yesterday and the brake pad warning light has come up. I've checked the pads and there's plenty of meat left on them. It might be a false trigger so I need to clear the fault.

Had anyone got any recommendations on which fault code reader is best for clearing warning lights?

 

[Pingu]

It's probably a false reading from a loose connection. If it is, it will reset when you switch off (you may need to remove the key for 30 seconds). If it comes straight back on, you have a problem.

I use INPA to diagnose faults.

 

[Chazzy]

Yeah, it's constantly on so I need to check the wiring and check the pads a little more thoroughly.

What is INPA?

 

[Brian4]

Yeah, it's constantly on so I need to check the wiring and check the pads a little more thoroughly.

What is INPA?

It is the BMW diagnostic software it needs the soaftware cable and laptop and will delve into the car diagnostics.

search for INPA and some things on how it works will come up

 

[t-tony]

If you disconnect the pad wear sensor cables inboard of the hubs, you can bridge the connections on the car harness end and see if the warning light stays off. You need to do this for both sensors (n/s/f and o/s/r).

Tony.

ps. You can actually buy connectors commercially to do this on such as Ford Transits. The sensor wire is simply a loop at the end of the cable and when it wears through, or gets damaged some other way, it interrupts the signal through the wire.

 

[Brian4]

Doesn't it also illuminate if the brake fluid is low?

 

[t-tony]

May well do Brian, worth checking the car and the handbook.

Tony.

 

[Chazzy]

Great info - thanks, I'll get on it tomorrow and see if I can diagnose the problem.

Does the light need to be cleared with a code reader, or will it go off automatically?

 

[Sean d]

Great info - thanks, I'll get on it tomorrow and see if I can diagnose the problem.

Does the light need to be cleared with a code reader, or will it go off automatically?

It should clear without a reset but as Brian as pointed out, check your brake fluid also.

 

[pgunter]

Found a post from @GazHyde ..

1. Leave drivers door open
2. Put key in ignition and turn onto pos 2 just before the engine starts so all the lights are on
3. Wait about 30 seconds and the light should turn off after resetting.

If this does not work, do step 1 & 2 as well as applying the brake and holding for about 15 seconds.

These steps worked for me. Thanks to Gary H.

 

[Chazzy]

I've found the issue.....on removing the near side front wheel, the pad sensor was hanging in free air. Looks like it needs a new one!