It appears you have a bizarre error on your instrument cluster. It mentions something like, Lighting System Failure, Stop Carefully. This error makes the indicators, fog lights, high beams, and other lights not work. Sometimes, the low beams stay on throughout, even when you’ve turned the light switch off.
That is both annoying and a safety concern. What could be the cause, and how can you resolve it? Here’s our quick guide on the frequent BMW lighting system malfunction causes and fixes.
What Triggers the BMW Lighting System Malfunction?
It’s difficult to tell what triggers the BMW lighting system malfunction exactly. That’s because it could be an error code, an incorrect specs bulb, or a weak car battery. Other times, the cause may be a wiring issue or a faulty Footwell module (FRM).
Let’s discuss these in detail:
Possible Cause #1: Code Error
Sometimes the lighting system’s malfunction results from something as simple as an error code. The Footwell module could have ‘lost memory’ or developed an error due to fluctuating voltage or wear and tear effects. In that case, the solution could be pretty straightforward.
How To Fix: Disconnect the battery for about 15-30 minutes, and the potential error may disappear once you reconnect power. Leave the power disconnected for longer if you have time; possibly overnight.
Possible Cause #2: Wrong Bulbs
Have you changed a bulb recently? If yes, did you install the right one for your BMW make, model, and manufacture year? An aftermarket bulb can make your car throw a lighting malfunction code even when everything works fine.
How To Fix: Ensure you have bulbs with the same electrical specs as indicated in your owner’s manual. We recommend purchasing replacement bulbs from your dealer or manufacturer.
Possible Cause #3: Bad Battery
You’re likely to encounter a BMW lighting system malfunction if your battery is too weak to provide the necessary voltage to the various functionalities of your vehicle. That includes the ignition coil and the Lighting Control Module (LCM). As mentioned, the LCM or FRM can lose its mind temporarily or permanently due to a low-voltage start attempt. Sometimes jump-starting your vehicle when the battery goes flat can also cause the error.
How To Fix: First, check the battery and ensure its voltage is within a reasonable range of 12.4 and 12.7 volts. You’ll need to connect multimeter’s probes to the battery terminals and take the readings on the device. If the battery is too weak, recharge or replace it. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, visit your dealer or a reliable, independent BMW specialist shop. The professionals will diagnose the FRM, reset it, or replace it if necessary. After that, they will need to code the module to your car.
Possible Cause #4: Connection Issue
The lighting system error can also result from a physical connection fault. That may have occurred while replacing lights. Perhaps you or someone else accidentally left the plug holder loose or failed to reinstall it.
Also, it’s possible that when driving on bumpy roads, the plug loosened up, and some lights stopped working. Dirt on the LCM can interfere with the smooth flow of electricity and cause a mishap.
How To Fix: First, carefully examine the light’s wiring for any loose connections or open circuits. Resolve any problems you discover. If there are no connection issues, remove the LCM and clean it well using a circuit board cleaner and a soft toothbrush. Clean all the terminals too. Once you reinstall the unit, the fault will probably clear.
Possible Cause #5: Faulty LCM/FRM
If you’ve tried the above solutions, but the problem is still there, your light control module may be faulty. That can happen due to natural wear and tear or something else. For example, a short circuit, probably when changing the battery, can cause the module to malfunction.
When the LCM gets damaged, non of your interior lights will work. The blinkers won’t work; the angel eyes (halo headlights) won’t turn on either. The worst scenario is that the auto mode may fail, and the main headlights and tail lights refuse to switch off. That’s a safety concern.
How To Fix: You need to replace the FRM and (as mentioned above) reprogram to your car. That may be a too challenging task for a DIYer. Therefore, your best bet would be to take the vehicle to the dealer if the warranty is still active. Alternatively, reputable BMW mechanics can do it for you.
FAQs
Can I Fix the BMW Lighting System Malfunction By Myself?
To fix the BMW lighting system malfunction, you must first figure out the cause. If the LCM is the problem, you’ll need a new one and a specialist to help you code it. Alternatively, you can install and program a second-hand module using BMW PA Soft 1.4.0.
How Much Does the BMW FRM Replacement Cost?
The BMW FRM replacement cost ranges from $400 to $800. Buying a new FRM module alone can cost about $500. The price will increase if you need help installing and reprogramming it to your car’s specifications. The warranty on these devices is short because they are highly prone to malfunctions.
What is the BMW FRM?
The MBW FRM, also called the Footwell module, is an electrical control unit that controls the mini light and window-related functions. You’ll often find the module at the driver-side footwell and interfaces with the dashboard. The FRM is why your parking lights or DRLs work every time you switch the engine.
Conclusion
The causes of the BMW lighting system malfunction can range from a code error to a worn-out battery and a whole batch of other issues. One sure thing is that your vehicle’s Footwell module is vulnerable. That means that sometimes malfunctions are inevitable. You can resolve the problem yourself, depending on the cause. If the FRM is damaged, you’ll need a replacement and reprogramming afterward. The procedure is complicated, and you might need the help of a specialist.
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