i get "abs fault- dsc not available " which "dissapears " after parking for a few minutes and re starting car. no fault codes showing on diagnostic . any advise ??

 

Your tool isn't reading the ABS module - which WILL have code(s).

Worth finding out the code(s).

 

It is likely to be one of the wheel speed sensors in the hub carrier, the fault code will tell you which one.

 

i have a xj8 ,2003 reg . ta present " in dock " attempting to rectify abs/ dsc fault. after numerous "tests" etc.etc. my garage contact now advises me that i may need a new half shaft as the abs speed ring is welded in place, also the type of ring is not "usual" as it is flat with " aload of holes in it".this is after a new battery and speed sensor fitted . any comments ???

 

A scanner that reads the ABS and the “readiness” status is a big help.
Another cause of ABS codes in caused by heat damage to the ABS controller. I think your car has an ATE controller module. These are very failure prone in 3 Series BMW. Location of pump and module is better in XJ, not as frequent a failure. Usually this issue can be identified by coming up after a short drive. A lot goes through the ABS controller.

 

I don't know much about the ABS systems so when I read your post I looked into ABS systems in general and for the XJ8 in particular. It seemed to me that many (including those for the XJ8) have information regarding the size and number of slots (holes?) included with the part numbers. I wholeheartedly agree with the post telling you that a scanner that reads ABS info could help greatly. Even if you do not do the work on you car being able to read the codes helps you understand the work that needs to be done. Hopefully your mechanic has some experience with Jaguars.

It is hard for those of us who work on our cars to give an opinion on what a mechanic tells someone. The statement regarding the ring being welded in place is very hard for me to comment on. I do not have any first hand knowledge on your vehicle. Had you experienced any problems related to your brakes, smelled anything odd or even felt something amiss while operating the car under regular, day to day, conditions. Other than the message regarding ABS and DSC codes. Was your battery replaced before or after you had the code message appear? Good luck.

 

The info regarding the abs ring does not sound right to me.

AFIK all abs (reluctor) rings are flat with slots in it.

Try another garage?

There is a firm in Lincolnshire who make reluctor rings.