BMW 5 Series Hybrid: ABS Light + Traction Control Issues

Hey there! I have some experience working on cars, and I actually faced a very similar issue with my 2020 BMW 3 Series Hybrid last year. The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I experienced. Initially, I thought it was just a sensor issue, but after taking it to my trusted workshop, they diagnosed a faulty control unit that was causing the ABS and traction problems. The repair set me back about 1000 Euro, but it completely resolved the jerking during acceleration and the warning lights. Can you share if you've noticed any other warning lights or unusual behavior? Also, how many miles/kilometers are on your 5 Series? This info would help me give you more specific advice based on my experience. Quick tip: Don't wait too long to get this checked out, ABS issues can become serious safety concerns pretty quickly.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My 5 Series has 162677 KM on the clock, and I just had it serviced last month. I've noticed the traction control light occasionally flashes along with the ABS warning, but no other warning lights so far. Your repair experience is really helpful, I was worried it might be something more serious like the entire ABS module. Guess I'll have to bite the bullet and take it to the workshop. Did your car also make any unusual sounds when the ABS was acting up?

Glad I could help! Yes, actually my 3 Series did make some weird noises, kind of a grinding sound when braking at low speeds. I totally get your concern about the ABS module, that was my biggest worry too. At 162k km, you're actually in better shape than I was, mine had about 180k when this happened. Since you mentioned the traction control light flashing, that's exactly what mine did before the control unit failed completely. The interesting thing is, after they replaced the control unit, they found that one of the wheel speed sensors was also slightly damaged, probably from all the faulty signals it was receiving. Might be worth asking them to check your sensors while they're at it. One thing I learned from my experience, don't try to drive it too long with these symptoms. I made that mistake and ended up having to get a more expensive repair because the system kept trying to compensate for the faulty unit. The grinding noise I mentioned earlier actually got worse over time. Let me know what your workshop says. I'm curious if it turns out to be the same issue as mine, given how similar the symptoms are.

Thanks so much for all the detailed info, that grinding noise you mentioned definitely rings a bell! I've started noticing something similar when braking, especially in the morning. Really appreciate you warning me about not waiting too long. I've actually just booked it in for tomorrow morning, figured better safe than sorry after hearing about your experience. Getting both the control unit and sensors checked out, just like you suggested. It's a relief to know it's likely not going to be some massive repair job. I'll probably need to dip into my savings a bit, but it's better than risking bigger issues down the line. Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience, it's been super helpful in figuring out what I'm dealing with!