Does your BMW 1 Series feel as though it’s braking on its own when the wipers are active? Well, this is actually quite common for 2011-20 vehicles. This eye-opening fault stems from a failing ABS unit, which plays havoc with the braking system and causes the callipers to stick.
Shop Now - BMW 1 Series ABS Pump Rebuild
It’s not just one type of 1 Series ABS pump that carries this brake-binding-inducing defect either. The ATE MK100 and the ATE MK25A XT are both known to carry this fault, and you’ll need to repair or replace the ABS pump to shift these BMW braking issues.
These control modules have been plaguing BMW owners for years, but thankfully, we’re the masters at restoring them. However, it’s not just the 1 Series that can brake on its own when the wipers are active - popular BMW models like the 2, 3, and 4 Series suffer from this fault too.
Why does my BMW 1 Series feel like it’s braking on its own?
These symptoms are a result of a design flaw within the ABS unit, which prevents it from properly regulating brake fluid pressure. Although fluid is reaching the calliper well enough, it isn’t able to disperse due to a build-up of pressure in the brake lines - and so the calliper can’t release.
It’s this sticking of the brake calliper that causes your BMW 1 Series’ brakes to bind and feel like the vehicle is almost braking on its own!
Why your BMW is braking when the wipers are active
Although these two systems might seem completely unrelated, they’re actually much more closely linked than many people think.
As part of BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, the vehicle’s brakes undergo a drying process to maintain effectiveness in wet weather. Your vehicle does this by very lightly applying the brake pads to brush off any excess moisture on the discs and allow for a better contact under braking.
The BMW activates the drying function when the wipers are activated. The ABS module subsequently sends a very small amount of pressure to engage the calliper, which is normally released immediately. However, when the ABS unit malfunctions, the callipers will stick and cause the 1 Series’ brakes to bind.
Which ABS module do I have?
Although both the MK25A XT and MK100 will cause your BMW 1 Series to feel as though it’s braking on its own, they are in fact two different units.
The MK25A XT was initially installed in the second generation 1 Series (F20) and the sixth generation 3 Series (F30). However, a shift towards the smaller and lighter ATE MK100 came in 2013 – this control module was also fitted to the first generation 2 Series from release.
Solve 1 Series braking on its own - Our BMW ABS pump repair option
To resolve the issues causing your 1 Series’ callipers to stick, you should have your BMW’s ABS pump professionally repaired or rebuilt. This way, the fault is removed and functionality is restored for good.
An ABS rebuild is faster, cheaper and better than buying a replacement. Brand-new units will undoubtedly carry the same design flaw that caused the brake callipers to stick on your BMW 1 Series in the first place.


It’s important to understand that a rebuild of the 1 Series ABS pump is different to a repair. A repair switches out a few faulty components whilst a rebuild completely reworks the unit’s internal make-up to restore functionality for good.
Rather than paying for the same fault twice, you should have your control module rebuilt by the experts. We don’t just solve the faults, we eliminate them at their root so that they’re prevented from ever returning. We’ll even cover you with an unlimited-mile lifetime warranty too – unlike many 1 Series ABS pump repairs.
Resolve your BMW 1 Series’ sticking callipers – have your ABS unit rebuilt in just 2-3 working days. Fill out our short test form today to get started.
MK100

MK25A XT

Common failure symptoms (BMW 1 Series):
How to diagnose:
Test and rebuild:
We analyse all BMW ABS units with our state-of-the-art testing rigs which simulate realistic driving conditions. This allows us to accurately identify and remedy the root cause of malfunction. We even rebuild with higher-than-OEM-standard components to enhance long-term durability too.
Programming:
All coding information is preserved throughout our process. This means your rebuilt unit is ready for action as soon as you receive it back from us.
Quality:
We take quality seriously. This is demonstrated by our defect rate of 0.49% and our proud offering of a lifetime warranty on all of our rebuilds. This is just part of the reason we are the chosen provider of automotive remanufacturing services for industry specialists worldwide.
Warranty:
Lifetime unlimited mileage*
How do I get my unit rebuilt?
To pay for the rebuild click the Shop Now link above, select your part number and click: Get yours rebuilt.
Print the payment/booking confirmation email.
Package the BMW 1 Series ABS pump inside a sturdy box with plenty of packaging material (make sure you include your confirmation email in the box).
Send us your package by tracked courier (the shipping instructions are on the confirmation email).
Once received we will test, rebuild and return your 1 Series ABS pump with an unlimited mileage lifetime warranty. (if your unit turns out not to be faulty then we will refund your payment less a small testing fee and return shipping)
What if I don’t want to pay up front?
This is not a problem, if you prefer this option then follow the following steps:
Fill in and submit this test form.
Print the booking confirmation email.
Package the 1 Series ABS pump and module inside a sturdy box with plenty of packaging material (make sure you include your confirmation email in the box).
Send us your package by tracked courier (the shipping instructions are on the confirmation email).
Once received, we will test your ABS pump and call you to advise on the outcome of testing, if your unit is faulty and you choose to go ahead with the rebuild then we will take payment over the phone using a debit/credit card.
We will then rebuild your 1 Series ABS pump and return it to you with an unlimited mileage warranty.
If you require further information regarding this BMW 1 Series ABS pump then please contact us.