01 325Ci Lighting Issues

Wiring, DIY, lighting, etc.
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Adam
Posts: 2240
Joined: Wed Oct 23, 2013 9:50 pm

01 325Ci Lighting Issues

Post by Adam »

The car has exhibited two issues:
- fast LH turn signal sometimes
- Lights show "failed" on the dash information panel, but are functional, but stuck on. This goes away after turning the car off and back on again.

There was a recall (and TSB) for 03+ E46s to fix an insufficient ground wire connector. Fun pics here:
https://www.bimmerforums.co.uk/forum/f9 ... ix-t49882/

Fortunately, the older ones aren't covered by this. Don't worry! They still have the issue, even through the parts are a little different.

Are pics are from the LH tail light components. The bulb housing. So....integrated?
20190109_075320.jpg
Can you guess which pin is the bad connector?
20190109_075327.jpg
20190109_075433.jpg
If you said '4', you win! Not a great shot but they did, at least, use a thicker gauge wire for the ground connection. Just not the pin connector.
20190109_075453.jpg
I cleaned off the pin and reseated the connector several times. I didn't experience the 'fast blinker' at all today. Previously this would seem to happen every drive cycle on the first LH turn. I plan to implement the TSB/recall steps on this light. I'll just have to use a self tapping screw on the ground bar since there isn't a conveniently located blade terminal like there is on the later cars.

Stay tuned for the next episode of "German Quality"!
Adam
Posts: 2240
Joined: Wed Oct 23, 2013 9:50 pm

Re: 01 325Ci Lighting Issues

Post by Adam »

So that didn't fix the problem. About a month ago, I installed a jumper harness to bypass the ground connection on the LH taillight (the worst of the two).
20190316_145827.jpg
The electrical tape is hiding quick disconnect connectors in case I need to remove the assembly for some reason. It's been fine since I did this, so fixed forever?
Adam
Posts: 2240
Joined: Wed Oct 23, 2013 9:50 pm

Re: 01 325Ci Lighting Issues

Post by Adam »

Not fixed. Time to do the other side.
kevm14
Posts: 15200
Joined: Wed Oct 23, 2013 10:28 pm

Re: 01 325Ci Lighting Issues

Post by kevm14 »

15 years later this F23 (2-series convertible) has the exact same design flaw and issues with the wiring/lighting. That is just unreal to me. German quality. This is a 2016!!

You can debate about German cars in general, but the cheap German cars make me particularly nervous. The cost cutting is insidious.

https://youtu.be/xOpFwvxQbA8
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