BMWs are known for being sleek, elegant, and filled with the most modern amenities. One of the reasons it often makes the list of safest family cars is its advanced dynamic stability control system (DSC).
The DSC supports drivers in the event of a vehicle skidding by automatically taking control of engine output and regulating braking force in the traction control system (TCS). When DSC failure occurs, it can be detrimental to the safety of the vehicle and driver.
At Auto Scandia, we’re well-versed in the nuances of the DSC and TCS, and what to watch for in terms of DSC failure in your BMW. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the signs and symptoms to watch for to catch DSC failure early.
Grinding Noises
One of the early detectors of a failing DSC in a BMW is the strange sounds you’ll begin to hear. This is a result of the DSC malfunctioning and in turn, causing the anti-lock braking system pump to malfunction. A grinding noise is most common, but you may also hear clicking or buzzing.
Any strange sound should be reported to your local auto repair shop to catch the problem early and avoid further damage.
DSC Warnings on the Dash
Dashboard lights are a great indicator of what’s going on under the hood of your car. Any warning light should be taken seriously, but if you notice a light for your DSC, traction control, or anti-lock braking system, get help quickly.
Each of these components is important on its own, but they all also impact other elements of your BMW. The longer the warning light remains lit on your dashboard, the more damage your car is taking.
Braking Issues
We mentioned above how the DSC sometimes causes the anti-lock braking system pump to stop working properly. This leads to some inconsistencies in braking. You may notice the brake pedal buzzing under your foot when you try to brake the car, or that the car isn’t braking as quickly as it used to. All of this could be an ABS or DSC problem.
Steering Problems
Steering alone isn’t a symptom of a faulty DSC, but it could be a sign as to why your DSC isn’t functioning properly. The DSC uses the vehicle’s steering angle sensor to calculate steering maneuvers and corrections when it takes over. If the steering angle sensor is damaged, the DSC could fail. This leads to all kinds of steering problems, not only when DSC is engaged.
Why Choose Auto Scandia as Your Repair Shop
At Auto Scandia, we have been working with BMWs and other European imported vehicles for more than 40 years. As a leading maintenance and repair shop specializing in imports here in Herndon, we have the expertise, tools, and parts required to work on your BMW right here in our shop.
Choosing a shop with experience in European models saves you time and money and offers peace of mind. You can count on us for transparency on the issues we see in your BMW and an accurate quote on the costs of services and parts.
Contact Auto Scandia Today
Trust Auto Scandia in Herndon for expert repairs and maintenance tailored to your European vehicle. Book your appointment now and discover the difference quality service can make! Call 703-471-4494 or contact us online.