rporzio

Hi Everyone, since I'm very new to 996 I've made an apt for Monday to have my local dealer diagnose the failure I'm seeing displayed on the dash; ABS/PSM Failure Drive to Workshop. Out of curiosity how does the dealer go about diagnosing this issue beyond the OBD tool? Do they use an addl software program (Can't remember the name) I've heard about to pinpoint the problem area? Thanks, Ralph

porsche951

Same exact thing happened to me last month. Still haven't brought it in for service. I've been told it's likely a MAF sensor or brake switch. No idea how it's diagnosed.

wwest

Those lights come on with a low battery charge or a failing battery....

coffeehead

Or low brake fluid.

porsche951

I'd love to have it be low battery or brake fluid.

rporzio

ok, good thoughts and thanks guys. I'll report back what the dealer finds on Monday. At the time it happened I also got a Check Engine light and read out a code on the OBD port that indicated low air flow so I took apart the MAF Sensor cleaned it along with the air filter. I discovered a big pile of leaves on the intake side of the filter that was probably slowing down the flow (my guess) because after I put it all back together I was able to clear the code and extinguish the light. Ralph

p.vanderlinden

Here is a short list of what you can check at home;

A switch on the brake pedal can fail
A bad brake light bulb can cause this (so I've read) even one in the third brake light
A failed brake fluid level sender
Brake fluid level low
Possible blown fuse? check fuse cover? for location of fuse, or is it in the owners manual?

rporzio

Good advice, thanks. Brake lights are good, don't have a clue as to how to check the brake fluid sender but the level I can take care of! At least I can check off a few things on your list so we'll see. Either way it'll be an interesting first experience at the dealer on Monday should I still have to have the service call! R.

p.vanderlinden

Best of luck and do post results

Paul

jasper

This has been well and thoroughly discussed over on Pelican.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsc...lem-cured.html

probable causes are the brake pedal switch or the MAF sensor.

cheap and easy to fix

Arne Klinge

Had this, you just have to check if you brake lights work, if they do not it is the brake light switch. Cheap part, $20 at an OPC, easy to DIY.

part number 996.613.113.02

rporzio

Thanks Jasper, yes I used that Pelican thread to help me clear the code I got (Low Air Flow) and how to clean the MAF Sensor but of course I still have the ABS/PSM Failure indicators. When we last checked I did have all 3 brake lights but will make sure before going to the dealer. R.

rporzio

BTW, what is an OPC?

Arne Klinge

OPC = Official Porsche Centre. I got this error sporadically, so if the error on the dash goes away it is not a total malfunction and the break lights will work. My symptoms were, error on dash, ABS/PSM lights on. stopped the car, got worried, restarted all was fine. This happened a couple of times, and only when the error occurred did I notice the lights.

rporzio

The Dealer replaced the MAF Sensor and he's now running very well. Thanks to everyone for their advice and support! Ralph