Is the DSC Control Unit faulty?

Asked by mikez3 Apr 10, 2012 at 06:13 AM about the 2002 BMW Z3 3.0i Roadster RWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Hi I have a 2002 Z3 3 ltr that has had water ingress in passenger footwell where the DSC sensors are
the signs were the DSC warning light and brake fluid warning lights permanently on.. After emptying
water and drying out and testing, the YAW sensor showed no output but the lateral acceleration
sensor was showing an output. The YAW sensor was replaced and diagnostic equipment to test DSC
carried out by independent BMW garage who say that the sensors appear to be OK and outputs are
getting to DSC unit (wiring continuity checked) but the diagnostics are not seeing these outputs at
the DSC control unit. Their assessment is that the DSC control unit is also at fault now. Would you also
think this was the case? Looking at wiring the inputs to DSC unit from sensors are to the "base" of
transistor and therefore putting either max 5v or 0v (as probably was the case) would not harm it.
What are your thoughts? Thanks

1 Answer

2,875

look for a used DSC unit from a breaker, these units can suddenly die like that. on later DSC units like the E39 and E46 the electronics were a bolt on module but on the Z3 i think it is a whole valve block. on the E39 you could get it to kick back in by giving the unit a firm tap, but it would always fault again.

Your Answer:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    bmwmastertech4hire
    Reputation
    380
  • #2
    Sleveillee
    Reputation
    350
  • #3
    BoholMark
    Reputation
    320
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used BMW Z4
3 Great Deals out of 72 listings starting at $7,495
Used BMW Z3 M
3 listings
Used Mazda MX-5 Miata
7 Great Deals out of 59 listings starting at $8,500
Used BMW 3 Series
64 Great Deals out of 1,232 listings starting at $2,500
Used Chevrolet Corvette
22 Great Deals out of 1,084 listings starting at $15,000
Used BMW M3
93 listings starting at $15,995
Used Porsche Boxster
6 Great Deals out of 52 listings starting at $11,643
Used Honda S2000
15 listings starting at $22,998
Used Porsche 911
28 Great Deals out of 481 listings starting at $21,888
Used BMW 5 Series
18 Great Deals out of 349 listings starting at $4,500
Used Toyota Land Cruiser
3 Great Deals out of 122 listings starting at $24,499
Used BMW X5
52 Great Deals out of 1,112 listings starting at $4,995

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.