v8p38

Active Member

• Jan 11, 2011

• #1

Hi Guys really puzzled here!

I had a 'Traction Failure' error message on my P38 (02 plate)
so had it checked out and the diagnostic system came up with brake switch failure as well.
Tried to clear the fault but Traction would not clear because of the other message.
Bought new brake switch and fitted it, took car back to garage to get codes cleared but the brake switch failure is still there and will not clear

Any ideas why this won't clear as I'm still getting the traction failure message.
One thing I thought is....... My battery !!! after having the igniton on for a while (20mins) doing the diagnostics , I had to jump start the car. Do you think the battery may be a cause for the error message and not being able to clear fault codes???

 

R

Ridesafe

New Member

• Jan 11, 2011

• #2

In a word.....Yes!

Low/flat battery will potentially cause all sorts to go belly-up. Run it a good while or use a trickle charger to get battery to a good level!

If message not cleared, try driving it 4-5 miles, that can clear it too.

 

j the range

New Member

• Jan 11, 2011

• #3

sounds like a fooked bat mate, it should last longer than 20 mins..

 

Datatek

Well-Known Member

• Jan 11, 2011

• #4

Check the battery, voltage should be 12.5 to 12.8 volts engine off and 14.5 to 14.8 volts engine running after a short time.

 

v8p38

Active Member

• Jan 11, 2011

• #5

Thanks guys,
had battery on charge for 3 hrs and it seems to have cleared the traction fault now.
Going for a new battery tomorrow

 

Datatek

Well-Known Member

• Jan 11, 2011

• #6

v8p38 said:

Thanks guys,
had battery on charge for 3 hrs and it seems to have cleared the traction fault now.
Going for a new battery tomorrow

Click to expand...

Get the biggest amp hour/cranking amps battery you can fit in the space. The diesel one is the best option. As you have just found, battery voltage is critical on the P38.