Greetings. I would like advice troubleshooting my DSC failure. I've tried all the suggestions I have been able to find on this and other forums to no avail. The problem is evidenced by both DSC and run flat warning lights being constantly active and DSC clearly not working. DSC has been out for at least a week, over far more than 10 engine cycles. Personally I don't particularily like the traction control implementation in my 2003 Cooper S, but I like broken bits even less.

Steps I have tried:
1) Reset run flat calibration.
2) Reset computer via battery disconnect and test 21.
3) Pulled the fuses for DSC sensors (bank 2) and DSC/ABS (bank 33) in combination and seperately. In all cases, the warning lights remain active.
4) Verified that the steering angle sensor is mechanically sound, although I did not test is electronically.

Steps I have not yet tried:
1) Verify wheel rotation sensors are functional. I don't actually know how to get at these. Is it a pain? Is it worth it?
2) Read fault codes. I assume that I have an electrical/sensor error.
3) Anything else?

Thanks in advance.

 

I just brought in my '05 MCS be/c the Service Engine Soon and DSC light were coming on intermittently. The Service Engine Soon light finally just stayed on for good (checked the gas cap, that's not the problem) and the DSC kept coming. The DSC would go out after turning off the engine and then the next time I started it might stay off for the entire drive. The next start-up it would come on again. When the light came on, no traction control--I tried it in a snow-covered parking lot.

Anyway, it's been at the dealer 2 days now and my service rep told me they pulled the "Puma Case". Not sure what that is. They are trying everything to no avail. He did say they haven't seen the light come on yet but it shows up as an error code.

I don't know if this helps be/c maybe you are out of the warranty and going to the dealer might not be an option. I'll let you know what they find--maybe it will be useful to you.

 

...actually the ABS sensors from what I understand... That is how the system works...through the ABS sensors sensing differences in revolutions from previously recorded revolutions.

 

It is either a wiring harness (engine) or the ABS sensor. There isn't much you can do but replace both. They should be under warranty if your car is still within the warranty period.


Hope that helps!
Randy

 

...I had the same problem - happened three times, only during the winter. Replaced the ABS sensor under warranty. Problem went away - this was on an 03 MCS, though.

 

for reference step 2) and 3) are a waste of time. ABS/DSC is on the ignition switch. every time you turn off your mini, you are doing the same thing.

checking the steering angle sensor is much more complicated than just looking at the housing. The majority of failures to ABS/DSC systems comes from faulty or damaged wheelspeed sensors or wiring. On the MINI there is a sensor under the handbrake, which is prone to wiring issues. This is the Yaw rate and lateral acceleration sensor (or they "oh my god I'm sliding" sensor).

The ABS/DSC controls the ABS light, Red Brake warning light, Tire pressure light, and the DSC light. Depending on how much is failed, determines how many of these light are on.

DSC and/or Tire pressure indicates that one or more of the sensors or CAN interface are not working. If the engine is failing with an SES lamp, the DSC may also come on.

ABS/Brake warning lights are much more sever. With the Brake light, you will probably need to replace the ABS/DSC unit.

What have you done recently? did you happen to run over something? Do suspension work? The wheelspeed sensor cam easily be damaged if one isn't careful will doing work in and around the wheels. They could simply be unplugged.

As I mentioned, many MINI owners has mentioned problems with the Yawrate sensor under the handbrake. you can try disassembling that area to inspect if a wire is pinched or broken.

I hope that helps some.

 

05 MCSC with 1200 miles. Just flicked the DSC switch expecting to see the "off" warning light come one. No go. I wonder if the DSC is working.
Anyone have any ideas. I'm going to the dealer this weekend & hope to have some of my own input before then.
Thanks