Question

I have a 1998 Z3m roadster that needs a new ABS master cylinder but have been told by BMW that there is no replacement for this part. I find this hard to believe that there is no replacement and either I purchase a used part from a wrecker or have it sent to Europe to have it rebuilt. i bought this vehicle to keep for as long as I can but for BMW not to have replacement for this very important part has me mystified. Can you help ?

Answer

Hello Mr. Baillie, I understand your frustration, this part is only available new from the dealer, sadly by law a manufacturer does not have to make a replacement part 5 years after the vehicle is made. There are a couple of options.

First, you could source an used unit. The other option is to have your unit repaired. There are many companies that can do it, but most are not very good. My first recommendation is Module Master, https://modulemaster.com/products/bmw-ate-mk60e-abs-rebuild

The second recommendation is BBA Reman: https://www.bba-reman.com/us/index.aspx Keep in mind that there is a possibility that your module may not be rebuildable, in that case, the used part will be your only option.

One more note on this, in either case, you will need a BMW scan tool in order to replace it. If you get a different unit it will have to be programmed to the vehicle and in both cases, the scan tool will be needed to bleed the ABS pump, this cannot be done by bleeding the brakes manually, you have to be able to activate the pump via the scan tool.

I know that a lot of us like to keep our cars for a long time, however, due to the use of computers for the last few decades that option is getting harder. All of the software in the control units are the intellectual property of the manufacturer, therefore any company trying to make a replacement part has to get permission from the manufacturer.

I hope I was able to help. Please let me know if I can be of further assistance. Thank you.

Gil Neves