Went to view a e39 m5 2day

[Adam7364]

Hi guys went to view e39 m5 2day

everything was as it should be but the abs light and traction control lights where on

Got told by the owner that I just need a sensor costs around 90quid from BMW

my question is are the two lights connected.furthermore the tyre pressure button does not work is this a major problem

regards,

[mikey-r]

I really wouldn't take his word for it. Yes, it could be an ABS sensor, but it could just as easily be a steering angle sensor which'll set you back the best part of £300 to get replaced.

My advice would be to get it to a dealer or specialist and get them to do a diagnostic check - then you'll have more of an idea.

These cars can be a mare to find what actually needs replacing when a warning light comes on... unfortunately, I speak from experience - mine is currently being looked at after power loss and the engine light coming on yesterday.

[WindsorRob]

I have a 523 that regularly gives the same problem - i.e. traction and ABS lights on. It's always been ABS sensors to date and the seller is right - they are about £80 to £90 fitted.

[WindsorRob]

I have a 523 that regularly gives the same problem - i.e. traction and ABS lights on. It's always been ABS sensors to date and the seller is right - they are about £80 to £90 fitted.

[DennisCooper]

Hi WindsorRob

There are the 'usual' reasons for the ABS/Traction control lights to be on, Sensors are the usual culprit. However, it 'could' be the actual ABS unit itself, and they're expensive. You can get them remanufactured for around £100 or so I believe and get a 2 year warranty. This is the issue with whats causing my warning lights to be on.

To the OP - this may be the same for you as well, however I'm not sure the same price applies to an M5 ABS unit.

As already stated, when it comes to an M5, you must get the car checked out properly by a reputable and preferable, well known specialist that knows the car's well. Taking the seller's word for it is simply not good enough at all for an M5. The 'only' exception to this rule would be if your pockets were deep enough to absorb any of the potential very high costs that could occur with buying an M5 that hasn't been looked after quite as meticulously as you'd like.

Cheers, Dennis! West London & Slough UK!

[rassi]

You would also have to wonder that if the "sensor" is just £80 to replace, why would any seller not have this done before showing the car to a prospective buyer?

[9mm]

rassi said:

You would also have to wonder that if the "sensor" is just £80 to replace, why would any seller not have this done before showing the car to a prospective buyer?

Exactly. Fits into the same category as "air con just needs regassing." It's an expensive car and if the seller can't find £90 to fix such a worrying problem, walk away fast. If the car is otherwise good, and I bet there are other question marks somewhere, then the only way to be sure is to fork out to have the car inspected by a main delaer or good independent.

My car will be for sale shortly and it will go on the market without fault. I wouldn't think of advertising a car like the M5 with warning lights on or any equipment working less than perfectly.

[Jespin]

As said, i'd ring the guy and tell him to sort the sensor himself, then you can talk about a deal!