2.5tdi engine cuts off for no reason!?

**no smoke** · 26-12-2007,09:22 PM

I have a 1998/9 2.5tdi manual. For no apparent reason the the big red brake warning light comes on in the middle of the dash, i hear 3 bleeps, and the engine just cuts off. This has happened on the motorway in the 3rd lane - and I think as it was in gear it just jumped itself and kept going.

In town this is risky as there is no warning and has happened at junctions etc.

I have checked the manual and it just mentions brake fluid or ABS - but both are fine.

Any ideas on why the car just cuts off? After 10 - 15 minutes, it's fine again.

Thanks - and i hope your christmas has been better than mine!

**Crasher** · 26-12-2007,09:39 PM

You need to get a fault code read carried out on the engine and the ABS; this will possibly say you have a brake light switch fault.

**no smoke** · 27-12-2007,02:17 PM

Thanks, will look in to this and report back...

**snapdragon** · 28-12-2007,12:44 AM

By cuts off, do you mean loses power? This could be the brake light switch, next time it does it, try lifting the pedal gently up with your foot. If power returns, it may be the switch (two switches in one housing actually)

**Crasher** · 28-12-2007,02:07 PM

Snapdragon, did you miss this bit?

You need to get a fault code read carried out on the engine and the ABS; this will possibly say you have a brake light switch fault.

**no smoke** · 03-01-2008,01:57 AM

I purchased a fault code reader and the code is as follows:

01203 - Electrical Connection between ABS and Instrument Cluster

This I am lead to believe is actually the electronic box attached to the side of the ABS that needs to be repaired (about £125.00)

Having investigated this scenario, it still does NOT explain why after 3 bleeps the engine cuts off totally leaving me with no power, steering, brakes etc.

Any views on either of the above?