Automatic hand brake issue

[Stephen Christopher Brown]

My auto hand brake does not work, and I have a perm ant warning light on my dashboard. The car is a 540i touring 2018 with 38000 miles. Following a paid for £225 diagnostic report the local dealer (used them fo 20 years) has advised replacing an N/STOCk hydraulic unit at £2566 +£303 Labour to solve the issue, which is need to pass an MOT test later this year. The fault has been apparent for over six months and passed MOT in Nov 2021 will not now? Originally when the fault appeared the service team advised to wait until car next in other work, which is where we are right now.

can this be right for an auto brake issue? Any advice appreciated 

thanks

 

[Greydog]

Afternoon Steve

Welcome to the Forum

Not an uncommon problem with many cars with auto parking brakes

Unfortunately BMW Technicians and Main Dealers (not just BMW) do not fix anything any more they just change parts and as you have discovered at a full retail cost?

No discount for your 20 years of loyalty or the fact you have a low mileage 4 year old car ? 

Now to your issue clearly the Handbrake has failed in the Off position so here is something simple to try, check the fuse box in the boot (fuse 129 I think) check the fuse map folded in the side of the tray pull the fuse turn the ignition on and off clean the fuse and replace it. Ignition on engine start and see what happens, this actually cleared the fault on my brother inlaws 535d. If it is the actuator that has failed there are repair kits available on Amazon and Ebay for around £200. When the unit fails nine times out of ten it is the actuator gear (plastic) which strips there are as said upgraded replacements in metal and changing them is well with in most peoples DIY capabilities. There are also now a few Youtube Videos that could help.

If you are not a DIY person then a BMW Specialist or Good Independent mechanic or garage should be able to get the repair kit and fix it at an hourly rate well below BMW's

Good Luck

Dave