Might just be a bad wheel speed sensor. If the lights on the dash are staying lit, a code is being thrown. Go to a BMW shop or anyone who has the right computer software, and have them read the codes that are stored. It should give you an idea of what's going on.

 

Thanks. I'll bring it in soon and let you know the verdict. Hopefully only a speed sensor.

 

It could also be a "grabby" caliper....feel the wheels after a drive, and see if that one runs hotter than the rest....

 

Sounds like an issue with your ABS/DSC hydro unit.

 

Front Right Brake Grabbing

I'm having the identical problem you had except it is my front right. Did you ever find out what was wrong?

Jim

 

I had this problem and it was a bad yaw /rotation rate sensor.
it would randomly swerve the car to one side and youbcoukd hear the abs pump and it would grind if you trked to press the brakes

 

As they say 'round here: "Yaw get that fixed now, y'hear?" ba dum tssshhh

Seriously, that sounds like fun! :yikes:

It'd be nice if everyone could report back what they did to fix once sorted. I'm wondering why the OP hasn't posted since this thread about phantom one-side braking..... :eeps:

 

Here I am!

I haven't posted back because I've been procrastinating and haven't brought my car in yet. My 2001 is a second car for me so the urgency isn't there. I've just been turning off the DCS every time I drive.

I will post again once I do bring it in. Trying to find a mechanic in my area that does good work on BMWs that isn't the dealer.

 

You can also disconnect the ABS harness to see if it goes away.

Also, see this thread about the ABS kicking in unnaturally at low speeds on bumps ...
Violent shudder when braking after hitting bumps

Also, to test the wheel speed sensors, see this thread:
- How to test wheel speed sensors (1)

 

DSC Light/brake

I am having a problem with my DSC -- it kicks in at low speeds and the brake light goes on. If I am going a bit faster I feel a "violent" type thud that causes the front end to shimmy slightly. I saw your diagram and it seemed helpful. I brought it to a BMW repair shop and they said I needed a new sensor and this was going to cost $1350. I nearly flipped a bird.
Does anyone know where I can get parts for less? I will be getting the exact parts numbers tomorrow but I think I am also going to get a second opinion. He did say they tried to "reset" it electronically but it could not be done. I live in the SF Bay Area. I have seen some used parts on EBAY but sometimes junk yards have used parts -- but that sounds like a hassle.
Thanks

 

DSC Light/brake

Hello, I have the exact same problem you mentioned and that is the same answer is to replace the 1300 RAW rate sensor. This is for my 2001 330 ci. What did you end up doing? Did you have any luck finding it used?

 

Yes. It was the Yaw sensor. Got it replaced a while back and all is good now. My mechanic was able to locate a used one that was significantly less than new. Can't remember what the price was.

 

DSC Light/brake

Thank you for the quick reply! This makes me feel better that it fixed your problem. What did you end up paying for the repair including the used sensor?

 

Thank you for the quick reply! This makes me feel better that it fixed your problem. What did you end up paying for the repair including the used sensor?

Try not to "Shoot from the hip". This vehicle is complex but not overwhelming. Buy yourself a good scanner with airbag and ABS capabilities. Around $69 on Amazon. Read the codes, do the research, go to a salvage yard or look on ebay and Amazon for the part if you want it new. Going to the dealer is the option only if you can afford the best service. My BMW was given to me so I can't see going to the dealer and paying their labor rate when I can figure things out myself.

My 2001 325Ci Coupe has DSC and amber Brake lights on steady, no reset always on as soon as the key is turned on.

Fault Codes:
1 - 5E3C Rotation rate signal

2 - 5E38 Rotation rate sensor

A little YouTube, then some price researching. This part 3452-6 764 018-0 can go from around $200 to $1400 depending on where you look. I've seen used units on ebay. I opted for Pick Your Part salvage yard and took a sensor with the warranty for $12. I will move the seat tomorrow and install. At the salvage yard there's no need to remove the seat, just cut the carpet I found out most do but I still removed the seat. Someone may need that carpet.