BMW 3-Series E46 - Reversing sensors

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Fri 26 Mar 2010 14:56
BMW 3-Series E46 - Reversing sensors - sandy56

Hope someone can help. My 2002 BMW 3 series has a strange fault- as soon as reverse is engaged the reversing sensors scream loudly no matter what is behind, if anything.

Can these be re-set or fixed?

or a visit to the expensive BMW dealer?

thanks for your response

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Fri 26 Mar 2010 18:24
BMW 3-Series E46 - Reversing sensors - elekie&a/c doctor

A constant tone when reverse gear is selected is usually a fault with a sensor or wiring behind the bumper.There is no re-set procedure,but any good diagnostic kit should be able to give you an idea where the problem exists.You could try the "ear " test.Select reverse with ignition on,but engine NOT running,then put your ear up to each sensor.There should be a faint crackle from each working sensor.hth

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Sat 27 Mar 2010 03:36
BMW 3-Series E46 - Reversing sensors - OG

Had a similar problem with my Astra, damn thing drove me nuts.

Only solution turned out to be to take a side cutter to the wires.

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Sat 27 Mar 2010 08:05
BMW 3-Series E46 - Reversing sensors - Ian D

I had this on my E46 2002 320d, my local Independent BMW specialist plugged in his diagnostic kit and diagnosed a faulty sensor. He had to remove the rear bumper, change the sensor and refit the bumper. Cost me £52+vat for the sensor and about 45 minutes labour so about £95 all in. I think a dealer would be at least double that.

Obviously it may not be a sensor but they tend to go.

Where are you? Do you have a good BMW spacialist near you?

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