What Causes BMW 3 Series Wheel Speed Sensor Failure?
2 Answers
BMW 3 Series wheel speed sensor failure occurs when the vehicle's computer fails to respond. Impact of wheel speed sensor failure: In this situation, the program cannot run normally. Damage to the fuel pump or fuel pump sensor can also lead to transmission system failure. Automotive transmission system: Composed of the clutch, transmission, universal transmission, final drive, differential, and half-shafts. Its basic function is to transmit the power generated by the engine to the vehicle's driving wheels, thereby generating driving force that enables the car to move at a certain speed. The composition and arrangement of the transmission system vary depending on the engine type, installation position, and vehicle purpose. The transmission system includes three key components: The gearbox, differential, and drive shaft. The primary task of the transmission system is to deliver the engine's power to the wheels. Due to different engine layouts on the vehicle body, the combination of the engine and transmission system forms various configurations. Most combinations are related to the vehicle's usage or performance requirements. Common causes of "Transmission System Failure": Ignition coil, fuel pump, and turbo wastegate valve are three frequent culprits. Handling method: When "Transmission System Failure" appears, before going to a 4S shop for maintenance and diagnosis, you can stop and turn off the engine, then restart after 5 minutes to see if it recovers. If it recovers, it is caused by a program issue.
My BMW 3 Series had a wheel speed sensor failure last year, with the warning light constantly flashing while driving, and the ABS felt strange. After checking at the repair shop, several causes were identified. One was that the sensor itself was dirty or damaged, as rainwater or road dust can accumulate inside, affecting its ability to detect wheel speed. Another was wiring issues, such as broken or short-circuited wiring in older cars, especially after winter corrosion from freezing. Additionally, there could be damage to the bearing, since the sensor is located very close to it. I learned my lesson: regularly clean the wheel hub area to prevent dirt buildup, and if any abnormalities are detected, get a professional inspection as soon as possible to avoid brake failure and accidents. Safety comes first—don’t delay repairs to save money, as this component can be life-saving in critical moments. BMW’s electronic systems are quite sophisticated, and ignoring a small issue like this can lead to bigger problems.