BMW PDC sensors.

'98 E39.
Reversing sensors not working.
Any common reason for this before I look for a fault?
Fuse, control unit etc?
TIA.
Mike. UK

Mike G wrote:
> '98 E39.
> Reversing sensors not working.
> Any common reason for this before I look for a fault?
> Fuse, control unit etc?
> TIA.
> Mike. UK

The sensors themselves are the most common cause. They go bad. Cost in
the US is something like $120/each (highway robbery - similar kits -
using the same type - but of course not identical ultrasonic sensors -
go for $30 on Ebay every day - with 6 sensors..)

Problem is identifying which sensor is bad. To do that - you'll need to
visit the dealer, or find a local garage with an AutoLogic code scanning
tool (which is made in the UK - so hopefully you can find one..) That
will pin down which sensor is bad. Replacement is simple - pull the trim
strip on the bumper, pull the sensor out, unplug it, plug new one in,
replace trim strip.

My '03 is heading to the dealer tonight for the same problem - will be
the 3rd sensor that has needed replacement. Luckily I have an extended
BMW CPO warranty on the car that covers this.

On Mon, 23 Jul 2007 13:43:56 +0100, "Mike G" > wrote:

>'98 E39.
>Reversing sensors not working.
>Any common reason for this before I look for a fault?
>Fuse, control unit etc?
>TIA.
>Mike. UK

Mike

I know this is old but when mine stopped the local dealer wanted to charge me
for a new control unit that didn't fix the fault. After a week of messing me
about and then not touching the car when I took it in for a third time I created
merry HELL!

they loaned me an M3 until they fixed my PDC and after 4 days they (or someone)
found it was a relay (can't remember where but probably either in the boot or
bonnet area) (I have the BMW DVD/CD electrical disc but it doesn't show exactly
where either)

Look for a RELAY.

And remember my advice when going to a garage or fix-it place -

1 Always as if they CAN fix it. - Do NOT move from this stance keep saying
- whatever they say or technical words they use - stick with "CAN YOU
FIX IT" and don't accept anything else. If they can't get them to say
so or if they won't say they CAN fix it go elsewhere.

2 NEVER tell them what is wrong (you are not an expert - even if you are)

3 NEVER sign anything that indicates exactly what they will be doing eg.
Change PDC control unit. It might not be the PDC control unit but as
you have agreed to that being done you MIGHT have to pay for it.

If they do NOT fix it then you DO NOT PAY.

That is why BMW dealers always say "It's £40 to diagnose your OBC then we will
tell you what's wrong"

Unfortunately it's a sign of these computerised and highly technical cars we
drive these days.

--

Sir Hugh of Bognor

The difference between men and boys is the price of their toys.

Intelligence is not knowing the answer but knowing where and how to find it!

Hugh Gundersen

Bognor Regis, W.Sussex, England, UK