FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/F30/F31 (2012-2019)/what does it mean if my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) traction control light is flashing?

what does it mean if my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) traction control light is flashing?

BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium1-3 hours
3 min read
498 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The traction control light flashing on a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) indicates that the traction control system is actively intervening to prevent wheel slip during accelerat

Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems to avoid shock or short circuits.

Symptoms

  • •Traction control light blinking on the dashboard
  • •Reduced engine power when accelerating
  • •Vehicle feels like it is losing traction during turns
  • •Unusual noise from the wheels or traction control system activation
  • •Possible decrease in fuel efficiency

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle using an OBD-II scanner to check for any related error codes.
  2. 2Inspect the wheel speed sensors for damage or disconnection.
  3. 3Check the brake system for any issues, including worn pads or low fluid levels.
  4. 4Verify the ABS system for faults, as traction control is linked to ABS functionality.
  5. 5Examine tire condition and pressure, ensuring they meet manufacturer specifications.
  6. 6Test the traction control switch for proper operation.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to ensure safety.

2. Inspect Wheel Speed Sensors

  • Tools Required: Socket set, multimeter.
  • Remove the wheel hub cover if applicable.
  • Locate the wheel speed sensor and inspect the wiring for damage.
  • Use a multimeter to check the sensor resistance; it should be within manufacturer specifications.
  • Clean any debris from the sensor area.

3. Check Brake System

  • Tools Required: Brake fluid tester, socket set.
  • Inspect brake pads for wear; replace if less than 3mm thick.
  • Check brake fluid level and top off with the recommended type if low.
  • Inspect brake lines for leaks or damage.

4. Verify ABS Functionality

  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner.
  • Reconnect the battery and start the vehicle.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to check for ABS error codes.
  • If codes are present, diagnose and address the specific issue.

5. Tire Condition and Pressure

  • Tools Required: Tire pressure gauge.
  • Inspect all tires for uneven wear or damage.
  • Verify tire pressure and inflate to the recommended PSI listed on the driver’s door jamb.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Remove the wheel hub cover if applicable.
  • Locate the wheel speed sensor and inspect the wiring for damage.
  • Use a multimeter to check the sensor resistance; it should be within manufacturer specifications.
  • Clean any debris from the sensor area.

Parts Required

  • Wheel speed sensor (if faulty)
  • Brake pads (if worn)
  • Brake fluid (if low)

Additional Information

Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

4 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to troubleshoot BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) electrical problems

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) may exhibit various electrical problems, which can affect components such as lights, windows...

    Symptoms
    • •Electrical components malfunctioning (e.g., windows, locks, lights)
    • •Dashboard warning lights illuminated
    • +{count} more

  2. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) make a popping noise when driving

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing a popping noise while driving, which could indicate a mechanical or suspensi...

    Symptoms
    • •Popping noise heard during acceleration or deceleration
    • •Noise occurs when turning or going over bumps
    • +{count} more

  3. how to check the timing chain on my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

    ## Problem Statement The timing chain on your BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) may require inspection due to potential issues such as rattling noises,...

    Symptoms
    • •Rattling noise from the engine, especially during startup
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • +{count} more

  4. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) make a hissing sound

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is producing a hissing sound, which could indicate an underlying issue with the vehicle's sy...

    Symptoms
    • •Hissing sound during engine operation
    • •Increased engine noise while accelerating
    • +{count} more

  5. my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) battery dies overnight when parked

    ## Problem Statement The battery of a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is dying overnight when the vehicle is parked, indicating a potential parasitic...

    Symptoms
    • •Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Difficulty starting the engine after the vehicle has been parked overnight
    • +{count} more

  6. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) engine light flash while driving

    ## Problem Statement The engine light on your BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is flashing while driving, indicating a potential misfire or severe eng...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light flashing
    • •Rough engine idle
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation