Dreaded Trifecta ABS wheel sensor warning lights
 

I have an issue with my 09 JCW that is driving me nuts. I get the trifecta warning light treatment from time to time, but only after spirited driving, such as an autox course. I tried using a BMW/Mini DRB to find out what was going on, but it continually tells me there is no connection. I am assuming it is the dreaded ABS wheel sensor issue and assumed the DRB might give me a code, but it will not display one. It will allow me to erase codes, but that doesn't turn it off. It is only after sitting for 40 minutes to an hour I can fire the car up, and lights do not appear. Someone suggested I may need a computer re-flash/update, and am told that only a dealer shop can do this. First of all, does anyone think that will help, and second, does anyone else experience a similar problem. Thanks for any and all feedback...

You might be getting dealer only type codes that some OBDII readers can't pull up. I'd probably suggest swinging by a MINI indy shop and see if they can plug in and pull codes. Don't do anything drastic until you diagnose the problem properly first. Typically, you can plug in and it will tell you which sensor is the issue.

We do have a tech article that can help you test your sensors to see if any of them are an issue: MINI Cooper R56 Wheel Speed Sensor Testing (2007-2011) | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article.

Let me know what you find out.