Stock Problems/Issues Discussions related to warranty related issues and repairs, or other problems with the OEM parts and software for MINI Cooper (R50), Cabrio (R52), and Cooper S (R53) MINIs.

Turn on headlights, car freaks out!

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  #1  
Old 08-26-2014, 07:51 AM
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tberg44
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Turn on headlights, car freaks out!

Ok, so I was having trouble with the wheel speed sensor faulting and causing the abs, traction control, and tire pressure lights to come on. I replaced both of the front wheel speed sensors and everything was good.

Recently I noticed that once I turn on the lights, it causes those three lights to come on again. It does it when I'm sitting still, when I'm driving, whether I've driven 50 miles, or just turned on the car. I have no idea why the light switch is causing this so I am here. Any help or advice is greatly appreciated!
 

Last edited by tberg44; 08-26-2014 at 07:52 AM. Reason: Bold title
  #2  
Old 08-26-2014, 08:01 AM
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Time to check your alternator/battery (charging system).

Gen1s are very sensitive to proper voltage/current. Do a load test on your battery see if it starting to fail, test your alternator insure it is charging and at proper output.

Sometimes just using your favorite electronics contact cleaner sprayed into the back of the alternator (over the armature/brushes)can clean up the alternator to output correctly.

Bottom line, check your charging system.

Motor on!
 
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Old 08-26-2014, 08:13 AM
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Thanks so much! So is that the normal way the car chooses to alert me of a electrical issue? (Traction, Tire pressure, and ABS lights) or is this a hunch as to what might be causing this?
 
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Old 08-26-2014, 09:06 PM
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No two cars react the same to voltage issues. +1 on advise above and also check battery leads and as many earth points as you can find. Clean, bright and tight is what you need.
 
  #5  
Old 08-26-2014, 09:30 PM
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Electrical gremlins with any variety of personalities almost always foretell the purchase of a new battery. Yours sounds no different.
 
  #6  
Old 08-27-2014, 05:48 AM
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Might want to check the grounds on the battery and in the engine bay.
 
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