[E90bro3]

Hi all,

Recently, I was driving to work (at low speeds on the freeway) and went to hit the brakes and the pedal would barely budge. I thought my hydroflask rolled under it at first. I tried to then pump the brakes and that didn't really help.

I made it off the freeway to check the brake fluid and it seemed to be within normal range. Moments later I got a red oil light on the instrument cluster and the engine started to make strange noises. I shut down the engine and had it towed home.

Thus far I've tried replacing the oil pressure switch and then drained the oil and replaced with new fluids to ensure an adequate level. Does anyone have any insight on this? I have not experienced this with any of my other E90s. Serpentine belt is intact and not frayed. Only had inlet and outlet VANOS codes. Both solenoids have since been replaced.

Vehicle is a 2009 328i xDrive N51

[Suvorovo]

Check your brake booster hoses leading from the vacuum pump to the booster. Mine was severely cracked and leaking air.

The section of hose by the brake booster is very hard to get to. With small hands, you can unscrew the abs pump and give yourself a tiny bit more room.

[gbalthrop]

Originally Posted by E90bro3

... went to hit the brakes and the pedal would barely budge... Moments later I got a red oil light on the instrument cluster and the engine started to make strange noises. I shut down the engine and had it towed home... Only had inlet and outlet VANOS codes...Vehicle is a 2009 328i xDrive N51

Since the Vacuum Pump and Oil Pump are BOTH driven off the same Chain Assembly, your description of events is rather alarming. I would seek the advice of a trusted Shop specializing in BMW/ E9x models, or even the N51 engine. Odds are this is NOT an "electrical problem" or "hose problem".
George