Changing the front struts on my 02 R50 has turned into a money hole!

Passenger side first, the strut bolt on the steering knuckle snapped. I found another knuckle at the junk yard and it had the outer ball link and wheel speed sensor still installed which is good because I couldn't get these parts out of my original part. Got everything installed and back together okay. Just had to spend more than planned- to get the used knuckle.

Drivers side. Despite taking it easy and using heat, the head of the strut bolt still broke off from the knuckle. I bought another knuckle online this time (the junkyard is an 1-1/2 drive each way and they're only open during regular business hours, when I work). It came without the outer ball link and ABS sensor. I tried to get the ABS sensor off the old passenger side knuckle but it won't budge. Tried PB Blaster soaking for days. Still won't budge. Ball link is the same way.

A simple strut change and I now need to buy a new sensor and ball link on top of the replacement steering knuckles. Not to mention all the additional work and the money I've invested in struts and mounts already.

ABS sensor prices from domestic websites (for OEM and branded manufacturers) are pretty crazy especially under the circumstances.

So, my question... Has anyone had any luck with the cheap ABS sensors on ebay?

Thanks

 

We had to replace the brand new wheel speed sensor in a customers car who had another shop work on the car before us. It was a cheap sensor from Autozone, and was causing all sorts of ABS DSC problems.

 

I tried the eBay cheap ones too. One didn't work at all the second failed very quickly.

PEX brand has held up for me. You don't have to go to OEM, but expect to pay $40+.

P.s. Had the same experience as you - broke the strut bolt, got a replacement used knuckle without a sensor, found my old sensor rusted in place. Eventually broke it trying to get it out. No fun :-(

 

Its somewhat comforting that I'm not alone. Who sells PEX brand?

I'm also toying with just getting another knuckle from the junkyard I got the passenger side from. Since it has the sensor and ball link still in it I will ultimately save money over buying new. I just don't want to make the drive.

Thanks

 

Pretty sure ECS Tuning and FCP Euro both sell them.

 

Thanks, I like both of those companies.

If everyone as the same results I'll either suck it up and buy new or go get that other used knuckle.

Anyone else?

 

I just looked and don't see the PEX at either place. They have Siemans/VDO which is also very good, but the price is close to $70. Don't have experience with the other aftermarket brands...

 

I couldn't find the PEX brand on FCP or ECS. ECS did have a cheaper "MTS" brand for $30 each.

 

Looks like you posted while I wasn't looking. I also did a google search and didn't find the PEX brand when searching for the ABS sensor Mini Cooper.

Edit - I did find the PEX brand on Amazon. $41.

 

I used the Febi and VDO ones with no issue. The VDO is factory OEM. Just watch when you insert, you don't crack the heads in the knuckle ABS hole. Clean the holes before install.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-on-tight.html