Author Topic: Brake Lining Light On? (Read 6292 times)

318idol · « **on:** April 28, 2007, 01:01:52 AM »

So, the dash brake lining light came on -- indicating worn pads. I check it out. Pads are fine, no where near the sensor. Hmmmm.

I notice that the wire from inside the engine compartment that connects into the caliper sensor wire had previously been rubbing against the tire and was "repaired" with two butt connectors and black tape. I repaired it correctly by soldering the wires and using heat-shrink tubing. All looks fine. Still the light remains on.

Does that light have to be reset? Could the wires still be damaged? Should I install a new sensor? Anyone have an experience with this? The light remains on if the sensor is plugged in or not.

Guess I could buy a new connector wire that I repaired and a new sensor, but want to rule out any other causes. The did run for 6 months w/out the light coming on.

Ideas?

Gary

Nick_318is · « **Reply #1 on:** April 28, 2007, 01:11:41 PM »

You might want to try a new sensor its only a couple of bucks and could be a simple solution. Also did you check the rear pads, the right rear also has a sensor. I would guess you have a damaged sensor or a wire in the system there is no reset for the light except a new sensor.

doucy2 · « **Reply #2 on:** April 28, 2007, 03:59:44 PM »

its defective on most cars. common e30 problem. most people just disregard it.

318idol · « **Reply #3 on:** April 28, 2007, 06:34:18 PM »

I'll try a new sensor.

The Germans should NEVER be allowed near automotive electical systems. They should farm out all the design and manufacturer of such components and systems to Japanese car companies -- whose electrical systems are pretty much bombproof -- for the life of the car. Or at least that's been my experience.

Sad really.

b318isp · « **Reply #4 on:** May 02, 2007, 12:02:50 PM »

Just short circuit the connection at the pad with a paper clip to check. The light on the dash comes on if there is an open circuit.

Patrick_Bateman · « **Reply #5 on:** May 02, 2007, 01:03:41 PM »

I have the same problem with mine. I've shorted the front sensor and replaced the rear one without installing it back into the pad. I'm sure the sensors are closed but the light still stays on. The electrical troubleshooting manual shows these signals going to the instrument cluster printed circuit board. It also shows a switch on this board that closes when the sensors open. I think the problem with mine is this switch or possibly a connection to the cluster. I haven't had a chance to pull the cluster so I'm not completely sure.

D. Clay · « **Reply #6 on:** May 02, 2007, 07:47:42 PM »

When the pads wear down the sensor gounds to the rotor. If it grounds at the LF or RR wheel the light comes on. I have a jumper instead of sensors on mine to keep the circuit going as my sensors wore out and I haven't gotten around to putting new ones in. They're $4-$5 each.

gundy318 · « **Reply #7 on:** May 02, 2007, 11:17:14 PM »

my light flashes when i brake and all my pads are fine.

gearheadE30 · « **Reply #8 on:** May 03, 2007, 03:37:32 PM »

^^ sounds to me like your sensors are loose.

The previous owner of my car took that light out, now I know why. He also installed aftermarket brakes, which explains why I couldn't find the sensors.

pbgd3skier · « **Reply #9 on:** January 15, 2008, 09:58:09 PM »

I tried two new sets of sensors when I installed my new brake components, and no change. I get the light.

Must be defective.

hoevesruperd · « **Reply #10 on:** January 15, 2008, 10:18:31 PM »

i heard its an easy fix with black electrical tape...

on your cluster :p

mrferg · « **Reply #11 on:** January 31, 2008, 12:57:38 PM »

Hey German electrics aren't that bad, obviously you've never dealt with Lucas systems.:p