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

2,865

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:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

2002 BMW Z3

Review another car

CarGurus Experts

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

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used BMW Z4
64 Great Deals out of 978 listings starting at $3,950
Used BMW Z3 M
8 Great Deals out of 83 listings starting at $11,795
Used BMW 3 Series
1,144 Great Deals out of 13,120 listings starting at $516
Used Mazda MX-5 Miata
144 Great Deals out of 3,016 listings starting at $2,995
Used Chevrolet Corvette
717 Great Deals out of 12,129 listings starting at $3,200
Used BMW M3
49 Great Deals out of 1,083 listings starting at $13,995
Used Porsche 911
374 Great Deals out of 3,900 listings starting at $16,500
Used Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class
53 Great Deals out of 629 listings starting at $3,850
Used Porsche Boxster
50 Great Deals out of 545 listings starting at $3,250
Used Ford Mustang
885 Great Deals out of 22,945 listings starting at $1,150
Used MINI Cooper
396 Great Deals out of 6,005 listings starting at $900
Used Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
137 Great Deals out of 2,497 listings starting at $4,995
Used BMW Z8
25 listings starting at $182,500

Used Cars For Sale

2001 BMW Z3 3.0i Roadster RWD For Sale
12 listings starting at $7,999

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.