[adepaola]

2011 335 x drive - n55

I changed my brakes about 2 years ago after my sensor tripped. I bought a new genuine sensor but every time I go to reset the service it just dings and states it needs replaced again. Here is what I've tried so far.

- shorting out the sensor in the wheel well
- replaced both front and rear sensors again with genuine products
- had my indy look at it and he thinks it's a communication issue in the dsc unit he also tried several other sensors as well trying to clear it

I thought I could live with the light on 24/7, it's not my daily but the more time goes on the more I just want it fixed. The car is in great shape for its age and if I can resolve this for a few $100 I'm willing to. For context I typically diy everything so if you have any insight I'd be happy to give it a whirl.

[sonofsun]

Didn't shorting out the sensor solve the problem? It's probably just looking for a break in the circuit.

[e91Owner]

Have you ever scanned the codes? When you say brake light, what exactly are you referring to? What does the brake replacement interval show on the dash after you’ve replaced the wear sensors?

This is a common thing that people mess up, typically when replacing their brakes. Lots of threads on the subject, but to pin it down, you’ll need to supply some more info.

[adepaola]

Originally Posted by e91Owner

Have you ever scanned the codes? When you say brake light, what exactly are you referring to? What does the brake replacement interval show on the dash after you’ve replaced the wear sensors?

This is a common thing that people mess up, typically when replacing their brakes. Lots of threads on the subject, but to pin it down, you’ll need to supply some more info.

I scanned for codes and the only thing present

5f10
5f12
5f11

I only have bimmer link and I can't clear these ones from the memory.

Red brake light is on, on the dash as if the parking brake was on. I've replaced sensors with previous changes without issues. I've had the car since 2013. Front wear indicator is showing negative 800 miles

[e91Owner]

Originally Posted by adepaola

I scanned for codes and the only thing present

5f10
5f12
5f11

I only have bimmer link and I can't clear these ones from the memory.

Red brake light is on, on the dash as if the parking brake was on. I've replaced sensors with previous changes without issues. I've had the car since 2013. Front wear indicator is showing negative 800 miles

Those are typical when either the sensor has broken through stage II or was not reset properly. Given that you’ve said you’ve recently replaced those with ATE cables, it’s unlikely those are all bad.


You have tried disconnecting the sensor, jumping the terminals with a paper clip (or an old sensor with the wires cut and connected), resetting the CBS and subsequently reconnecting the sensor without a second reset?

Since you don’t have the dreaded ——-, you can also do a CBS correction to the mileage with ISTA for sure, but I’m not sure if bimmerlink supports that.

[adepaola]

Originally Posted by e91Owner

Those are typical when either the sensor has broken through stage II or was not reset properly. Given that you’ve said you’ve recently replaced those with ATE cables, it’s unlikely those are all bad.


You have tried disconnecting the sensor, jumping the terminals with a paper clip (or an old sensor with the wires cut and connected), resetting the CBS and subsequently reconnecting the sensor without a second reset?

Since you don’t have the dreaded ——-, you can also do a CBS correction to the mileage with ISTA for sure, but I’m not sure if bimmerlink supports that.

Correct I jumped the terminals and it still wouldn't reset. I don't have insta and have been having trouble finding a reputable (worry free) way of obtaining. I've been considering shelling out the $100 for protools but still weighing my options.

Can you elaborate on the -- issue?

[adepaola]

I should also mentioned I checked continuity from the dsc plug and confirmed there is a complete circuit no breaks in the wiring

[e91Owner]

Originally Posted by adepaola

I should also mentioned I checked continuity from the dsc plug and confirmed there is a complete circuit no breaks in the wiring

The DSC is extremely sensitive when recognizing the change in resistance from an old cable to a new cable. It’s why many get undesired results when replacing their sensor after a brake job, particularly if they don’t follow the procedure exactly. Cars without CBS don’t have this problem as they simply recognize the first break in a two-stage sensor and say it’s time to replace the brakes.

Without going through a ton of try this, try that, it’s easiest if you just do a CBS correction with ISTA. The latest download links can be found by contacting shawnsheridan


I wouldn’t pay for anything else… the other tools available on a cell phone or tablet are just out of convenience since you don’t have to lug a laptop around, but don’t match the diagnostic ability of ISTA.