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Re: <E36> Electrical Problem Help Needed!!!

- ----- Message Text -----
On 7/21 Theo wrote:

>     Hi all,
>
>     I've been having the following problem for a while and I need
>     your help...
>     I've been having the following problem for a while and I need
>     your help...
>
>     My right break light stops working almost every other time I use
>     the car. The computer says "1 brake light failed". When it first
>     happened, I checked the bulb but it was OK. I then checked for
>     socket continuity and that was OK too. I cleaned the contacts,
>     opened them up  (a little) and re-installed it. It worked for a
>     day or two and it failed again (the computer said so and I
>     verified it, no light).

My '92 325i did the same but with the tail light circuit.  I think the 
system works by monitoring the voltage drop across the cirucit.  Any 
resistance in contacts either at the bulb or in the harness connectors 
through-out the body can cause this.  On mine I replaced the bulbs with 
new ones and this corrected even the old bulbs worked.  I wonder if as 
they became older and were used more that their resistance may have 
increased.  Who knows??  Anyway, I would look for and connectors in the 
harness and do the old unplug & plug trick to clean their contacts.  
Worth makes a good contact cleaner in a spray can.  Try new bulbs, it may 
work for you.

Good luck,
Stu Raike
'92 325i
'88 M3
'82 320i (For Sale)