R53 2005 — communicating with any module, not even OBD

[DenishP4]

Greetings everyone,

My Vgate iCar Pro 2S scanner is unable to communicate with any of the modules in my 2005 Mini Cooper S (R53) due to a no-communication problem.

Basically, I've tried everything that's commonly used for this. The splices under the seats appear to be fine, but I saw some strange, non-factory splices under the glovebox that make me dubious. Just wanted to reach out and see if anyone has dealt with a similar dead-bus/no-communications issue and could give me some pointers.

What I've tested—the lengthy version

The scanner connects without a hitch, however neither the ECU nor the ABS will respond.

Specifically, I was looking at the diagnostic bus, which is the violet/white cable. In order to eliminate any potential problems, I unplugged each module on that line individually. This includes the power steering pump (EHPS), which I have verified to be OK.

Concerning the electrics:

    The power is flowing into the OBD port.
    The integrity of the wire connecting pin 7 to the ECU ensures proper continuity.
    Since there is no continuity between pin 7 and the ABS connector, I will have to address the possibility of a broken bus branch leading to the ABS.
    No signs of corrosion or pins that have been bent or pushed back are seen on the ABS connector.

To further exclude them, I additionally disconnected a few of more components:

    BCM—removed, all connections appear to be in fine working order.
    Turned off radio entirely.

And the connections:

    Looked under both seats; everything seemed to be in order.
    I discovered some strange, non-factory splices behind the glovebox, and they make me suspect.

Please let me know if you have any insights. I am grateful.

[KOOLCAR]

It seems like you've been actively investigating the no-comms issue. I saw that you discovered some questionable splices beneath the glovebox; would it be possible for you to provide a picture of them? It could be helpful for someone here to see what you're facing in order to understand what's happening.

[DenishP4]

Here are a few pictures of it

[DenishP4]

[DenishP4]

[xsports]

Verify that the x11 connector—which goes into the internal fuse box's base—is not rusted; otherwise, you will not be able to receive any signals.