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View Full Version : BMW Announces E46 tail light recall



johnrando
09-01-2011, 06:48 AM
Saw this on e46f.c, credited to Robbski. Appears to be for sedans.

FIXED LINK
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-09-01/bmw-recalls-241-000-cars-in-u-s-for-rear-light-malfunction-2-.html

241,000 cars

The recall is for model years 2002-2005 of the 325i, 325xi, 330i and 330xi cars, the Munich-based company said today in a posting on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website.

Lights including tail, brake and turn signals may only work intermittently on the cars, BMW told the auto-safety regulator. This "reduces the ability to warn other motorists of the driver's intentions" and "could cause a vehicle to crash without warning," the company said.

cakM3
09-01-2011, 06:59 AM
John,

I tried the hyperlink....couldn't get it to work. Of course, I'm at work using NMCI internet.....

billschusteriv
09-01-2011, 07:33 AM
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-09-01/bmw-recalls-241-000-cars-in-u-s-for-rear-light-malfunction-2-.html

danewilson77
09-01-2011, 08:03 AM
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-09-01/bmw-recalls-241-000-cars-in-u-s-for-rear-light-malfunction-2-.html

Interesting. We should be receiving a letter?

johnrando
09-01-2011, 08:05 AM
Interesting. We should be receiving a letter?

Was thinking the same thing, I would guess so. Of course you could always reach out to the dealer after the dust settles if you didn't get one. I'm sure there's a flurry going on right now.

HokieZHP
09-01-2011, 08:05 AM
How do we go about taking advantage of this recall? Will they just replace the tail lights?

goofiefoot
09-01-2011, 08:23 AM
Sounds like they will replace the connector. I had the "light-out" indicator come on incorrectly when I was driving mine back from Colorado the day after I bought it. Haven't seen it since, but that's an indication that the problem is occurring. Hopefully my dealership can take care of it quickly.

Now if we can just get them to recognize the burnt bowl problem...

danewilson77
09-01-2011, 08:23 AM
How do we go about taking advantage of this recall? Will they just replace the tail lights?

I would call the dealer to ask about the details on this.

Go Horns!
09-01-2011, 08:40 AM
Summary:
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 325I, 325XI, 330I, AND 330XI VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2001, THROUGH MARCH 1, 2005. OVER TIME, RESISTANCE IN THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS MAY CAUSE ONE OR MORE REAR LAMP FUNCTIONS (TAIL LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT, AND/OR TURN-SIGNAL), WITHIN THE VEHICLE'S BODY PANEL, TO STOP WORKING.

Consequence:
INTERMITTENT LIGHT OPERATION REDUCES THE ABILITY TO WARN OTHER MOTORISTS OF THE DRIVER'S INTENTIONS. THIS COULD CAUSE A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy:
BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING OCTOBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.

Notes:
OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV .

danewilson77
09-01-2011, 08:50 AM
Thanks Horns.

edlvrt
09-01-2011, 09:02 AM
It sounds like there will be a limited time span to have the repair free of charge.

"BMW expects to begin and complete owner notification in October 2011.

Expenses for repairs performed prior to December 18, 2009 or more than 10 days after the date of last owner notification letter sent by BMW are not eligible for reimbursment."

The following link has some PDFs with more info.

http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/documentList.do?docId=11V438&docType=RCL&fromPublic=true

billschusteriv
09-01-2011, 09:10 AM
I would call the dealer to ask about the details on this.

Just called my dealer. No data on active recall campaigns.

Assuming this hasn't hit them yet.

danewilson77
09-01-2011, 09:20 AM
Just called my dealer. No data on active recall campaigns.

Assuming this hasn't hit them yet.

LOL....that we get the info faster than the dealers.......hehe.

Unless he's playin stupid until October.

billschusteriv
09-01-2011, 09:28 AM
Probably the latter.

mikeyb74
09-01-2011, 09:57 AM
Just called my dealer. No data on active recall campaigns.

Assuming this hasn't hit them yet.

Bill, your touring is not part of this recall.

billschusteriv
09-01-2011, 09:58 AM
Awesome. Thanks Mikey.

mikeyb74
09-01-2011, 10:00 AM
Awesome. Thanks Mikey.

Our touring tail light bulb carriers are alot more simpler then sedans.

Whitexi
09-01-2011, 10:57 AM
Link to the recall

http://i.autoblog.com/2011/09/01/bmw-recalling-241-000-3-series-models-over-faulty-tail-lights/

There's alot of people on the other boards asking about it in coupes, pre face sedans but its for the face lifted sedans only.

I called BMW customer relations and that lady said the letters will be sent out october and that its not certain every car will get a notice.

Rovert
09-01-2011, 02:06 PM
Where's my ZKW recall!!! :(

danewilson77
09-01-2011, 02:23 PM
+330!

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

az3579
09-01-2011, 02:48 PM
Hmm, I wonder... would they still repair it if I have the extra ground wire workaround implemented? The ground wire in my driver's side tail is completely melted and I think the extra ground wire that I had spliced in is the only ground on it at the moment...

I would think they'll replace the harness regardless (hopefully) despite the "modification"...

Rovert
09-01-2011, 03:03 PM
I made the modification too. Luckily I made it just as the taillight warning in the dash started to come on so nothing melted.

mikeyb74
09-02-2011, 07:09 AM
I wonder why BMW did not include the 99-01 Sedans and Coupes in this recall? I sell just as many bulb carriers and wiring kits for these as the 02-05 Sedans.

az3579
09-02-2011, 08:02 AM
I wonder why BMW did not include the 99-01 Sedans and Coupes in this recall? I sell just as many bulb carriers and wiring kits for these as the 02-05 Sedans.

Perhaps it's because they're more than 10 years old? Dunno... :dunno

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M0nk3y
09-02-2011, 08:12 AM
I wonder why BMW did not include the 99-01 Sedans and Coupes in this recall? I sell just as many bulb carriers and wiring kits for these as the 02-05 Sedans.

Iirc they don't have grounding failures.

My car had this problem 3 years ago. My connectors melted together and I threw codes. Both connectors (female and male) needed to be replaced and an additional ground was added.

Glad they finally see the fault here

Sent from my DROID X2 using Tapatalk

quikryptonite
09-02-2011, 08:14 AM
How will they inform us 2nd owners? The local BMW dealers have no idea I own a BMW. Do they run some DMV report or something or will I have to call them?

edlvrt
09-02-2011, 09:09 AM
How will they inform us 2nd owners? The local BMW dealers have no idea I own a BMW. Do they run some DMV report or something or will I have to call them?

After I bought my car, I called BMW NA to have them change their records to reflect that the car was now mine.

nike001
09-02-2011, 04:05 PM
Is this what my problem is? Intermittently my rear light out warning will come up.. but I usually flick on the lights and hit the brakes and it'll go out.



Where's my ZKW recall!!! :(

I thought about this as well.. screw whats behind us, I wanna see whats in front of me! haha

titaniumair
09-02-2011, 05:17 PM
Go here: https://www.bmwusa.com/secured/content/forms/login.aspx and register your car with BMW. Once you've created an account, you can also download an owner's manual and the sales brochure.

norman@southbayBMW
09-02-2011, 06:28 PM
we have a taillight repair kit for this problem for about 6 years now....I saw an email today at work from BMWNA about the recall so guys wait for the letter from BMWNA

fricker66
09-03-2011, 06:11 AM
Go here: https://www.bmwusa.com/secured/content/forms/login.aspx and register your car with BMW. Once you've created an account, you can also download an owner's manual and the sales brochure.


When submitting my request and info for a new account it errors out saying my car is not available at this time. Anyone else get that response?

MrMaico
09-03-2011, 08:05 AM
When submitting my request and info for a new account it errors out saying my car is not available at this time. Anyone else get that response?

No problems here.

sna77
09-05-2011, 02:56 PM
crazy thing about the facelift sedan taillights... there is a separate grounding block on the light housing. Whoever engineered those things knew they needed a dedicated ground but must have been overruled by some penny-pincher who thought the existing harness would be sufficient. BMW had a "fix" a few years ago to basically tap into that grounding block and run a new wire to the car's ground...

aurelius
09-06-2011, 10:45 AM
The story behind this story:

http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/09/02/a-texas-mans-campaign-results-in-recall-of-241000-bmw-3-series-models-for-faulty-tail-lamps/

az3579
09-06-2011, 11:20 AM
The story behind this story:

http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/09/02/a-texas-mans-campaign-results-in-recall-of-241000-bmw-3-series-models-for-faulty-tail-lamps/

Then hopefully they will recall those stupid ZKW headlights, which is more of a hazard...

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llll1l1ll
09-07-2011, 04:02 AM
I registered my car with no issues and then emailed BMW NA Customer Service to tell them I'd like to be included on the mailing list for the recall. I should be getting a response today or tomorrow.

quikryptonite
09-07-2011, 08:59 AM
Just registered and sent my request for notification of the recall from BMW as well.

llll1l1ll
09-07-2011, 09:02 AM
If they don't ever write back, which is possible, do you think we could just show up at the dealership?

quikryptonite
09-07-2011, 09:27 AM
I am planning on calling the local dealer if I don't hear back by next week. I'll be out of town all weekend and I'll worry about it when I get home. I would hope they'd take care of us, it's been reported in several reputable news sources.

llll1l1ll
09-07-2011, 11:02 AM
I would think so long as the car is registered on their website to my name, they will send the notification to me.

johnrando
09-07-2011, 11:04 AM
If they don't ever write back, which is possible, do you think we could just show up at the dealership?

I'd schedule an appointment and make sure they are ready to service your car and the recall has been verified on it, but otherwise, yes.

az3579
09-07-2011, 12:19 PM
Today I checked with my local dealer. The service advisor I spoke to knew about the recall for the E46 taillights (I was very glad he even knew what an E46 was, and that he was already nodding his head in confirmation as I was asking him about the recall). He says that if my car is registered in the state of CT with that VIN# to my name, then that is where BMW gets its list from. I can only assume that it's the case for all states.

So, I would say it's safe to say that if your car is registered in your state under your name, you will get a notification for it.

llll1l1ll
09-08-2011, 04:03 AM
This information is relevant to my interests.

quikryptonite
09-14-2011, 09:44 AM
I'd schedule an appointment and make sure they are ready to service your car and the recall has been verified on it, but otherwise, yes.

I just called the local BMW dealer. Their server was down, but the service rep knew all about the recall. She scheduled an appointment to come in and get it fixed and said if the recall didn't apply to my car she'd let me know to cancel the appointment. My ZHP is going under the knife, so to speak, next Friday morning.

quikryptonite
09-14-2011, 12:21 PM
Just heard back from my local dealer. She informed me there were no open recalls for my car. Anyone else have this problem? Will I just need to call back in October? I haven't heard back from BMWNA yet, perhaps I will give them a call.

llll1l1ll
09-15-2011, 04:16 AM
I'm waiting until exactly October 2nd to place my call. I also contacted BMWNA via email after registering my ZHP with them with explicit instructions to contact me regarding the recall. I have not heard a response. Probably because I used email.

zhpnsnv
09-24-2011, 11:21 AM
Going in for service monday. I'll ask for this to be done considering they noted the fault in my taillights last time and quoted me +$300 for the fix. hahaha I said no thank you.

quikryptonite
10-03-2011, 09:18 AM
I just spoke with BMW NA and they said the letters are now going out for the recall. She verified my address and said it should be on it's way soon. Keep your eyes open for your letters folks.

llll1l1ll
10-04-2011, 03:55 AM
Good timing. I just called BMW NA yesterday to make sure that they had my car registered. They verified my address. They did not confirm whether or not I was under the recall, but I'll wait three more days for my letter.

llll1l1ll
10-11-2011, 04:10 AM
Has anyone received their letter yet?

danewilson77
10-11-2011, 04:11 AM
Good timing. I just called BMW NA yesterday to make sure that they had my car registered. They verified my address. They did not confirm whether or not I was under the recall, but I'll wait three more days for my letter.

What number are you guys calling, out of curiousity?

llll1l1ll
10-11-2011, 06:48 AM
I called the customer service hotline that's right on the page when you log in. 800-831-1117 is the number.

danewilson77
10-11-2011, 06:58 AM
Thanks 1i1i1i1i1ii1i1i1

llll1l1ll
10-11-2011, 09:09 AM
Hahaha no problem.

edlvrt
10-11-2011, 12:22 PM
Has anyone received their letter yet?

Not yet....

GreenFrog
10-11-2011, 04:32 PM
I called my local BMW dealer and they said while they are aware of the recall, they won't be allowing repairs until a month or two from now. He said it's because they have to train their technicians how to fix the issue and whatnot..

danewilson77
10-11-2011, 04:37 PM
I called my local BMW dealer and they said while they are aware of the recall, they won't be allowing repairs until a month or two from now. He said it's because they have to train their technicians how to fix the issue and whatnot..

Lol. Whatever.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

Johal E32
10-11-2011, 05:02 PM
I called BMW and gave them my VIN, they said my car is okay. They also said they would start sending me mail about any other recalls or anything like that

Whitexi
10-11-2011, 05:08 PM
Im stalking the mail box for mine, then I gotta choose one of the 3 dealers by me to fix it. There gonna love it, its a mess back there!

JohnnyGraphic
10-11-2011, 05:37 PM
Has anyone received their letter yet?

Nope. Not a peep.

llll1l1ll
10-12-2011, 04:03 AM
Okay, just making sure nobody has received their letters yet.


I called BMW and gave them my VIN, they said my car is okay. They also said they would start sending me mail about any other recalls or anything like that

Did you call the same number I posted to get this information?

danewilson77
10-12-2011, 04:39 AM
I called yesterday and registered. They said my car wasn't covered by the recall....but that I might get a letter. No idea what this means. I asked when I should call back...if I hadn't heard anything, and she told me "end of the month". According to her....the letters have not been sent yet. Who knows.

llll1l1ll
10-12-2011, 05:40 AM
Hahah your car isn't covered but you might get a letter. She should have just said, "I'm not sure, but try back in about a week."

danewilson77
10-12-2011, 05:47 AM
Yeah...so.....idk :shifty

Bishop
10-13-2011, 09:35 PM
I emailed BMW customer service asking to be notified of recalls and other vehicle owner information bulletins. This was the reply.

"Thank you for contacting BMW of North America, LLC regarding your 2004 BMW 330i. We appreciate your inquiry.

"Recalls are specific to a vehicle's identification number, and VIN# [REDACTED] does not have any open recalls. I suggest visiting the service team at your authorized BMW center to review any concerns you may have with your vehicle. To locate BMW centers in your area, please visit our website, www.bmwusa.com/dealers.

"The BMW Customer Relations and Services Department is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M., Eastern Standard Time. You can reach us at 1-800-831-1117."

Johal E32
10-13-2011, 09:40 PM
Okay, just making sure nobody has received their letters yet.



Did you call the same number I posted to get this information?

I called this number 1-800-525-7417.

Scorpius
10-17-2011, 09:14 AM
So is this issue where you check your rear lights and one of the pins has melted the connector? Lucky for me mine still works.

danewilson77
10-17-2011, 09:21 AM
Yup. And can start an unpleasant fire in the ass of your car.

NDubSki
10-17-2011, 11:16 AM
Iirc they don't have grounding failures

Mine has/had it. Mines modified now. Very dangerous though, im pissed BMW hasn't included the coupes and sedans from 99-01.

~I absolutely loath Tapatalk~

danewilson77
10-17-2011, 02:20 PM
Mine has/had it. Mines modified now. Very dangerous though, im pissed BMW hasn't included the coupes and sedans from 99-01.

~I absolutely loath Tapatalk~

In....then gone.....like a ninja.

TT isn't your issue....its your phone.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

Mtnman
10-17-2011, 03:25 PM
I went to my dealer last week. They had no idea about the recall, put my key in the magic hole, and ame back with........no recalls for your car............huh? I mean, 04 sedan....something is up. Keep me posted everyone

Sent from my DROID2 GLOBAL using Tapatalk

az3579
10-17-2011, 04:06 PM
I went to my dealer last week. They had no idea about the recall, put my key in the magic hole, and ame back with........no recalls for your car............huh? I mean, 04 sedan....something is up. Keep me posted everyone

Sent from my DROID2 GLOBAL using Tapatalk

I'm going to the dealer tomorrow to pick up a part; will stop by the Service Department if I have time and check again to see what's what with this recall. I stopped by last month and they said that they know about the recall and that letters will be sent out in October. Haven't received anything yet.

nike001
10-17-2011, 06:09 PM
I'm going to work tomorrow, I'll ask them about it and report back.

Also, in my new set of clears, it came with a different backing plate thing that holds the bulbs and all that good stuff. One of the pins in the clears are burnt..and it seems like the bottom row of lights aren't as bright as the ones as the other side is. Is this one of the problems?

In my old ambers, I'd only get the tail light out warning.. but that was fixed by turning my lights all the way on for ~5 seconds and the warning would go out. Never noticed light output differences.

alexandr
10-17-2011, 09:11 PM
I have called my dealer 2x this month so far. Still no confirmation of them issuing the recall. I find it disquieting that they make it a point to say there's no guarantee my vehicle will be included. I have my wiring harness band-aided with electrical tape because the melting was causing a short.

Scorpius
10-18-2011, 08:35 AM
Yup. And can start an unpleasant fire in the ass of your car.

well...hopefully someone will find luck with getting this done and some sort of official recall paperwork. My 2004 zhp needs this repair and hopefully the dealers will do it under a recall. Wish they'd also fix the front lights...i can barely see unless i throw on the high beams.

danewilson77
10-18-2011, 09:10 AM
well...hopefully someone will find luck with getting this done and some sort of official recall paperwork. My 2004 zhp needs this repair and hopefully the dealers will do it under a recall. Wish they'd also fix the front lights...i can barely see unless i throw on the high beams.

+1 on everything said.

llll1l1ll
10-20-2011, 03:31 AM
I stopped by the parts department last night to pick up some oil. I also asked them if there were any recalls on my car. There weren't any.

danewilson77
10-20-2011, 03:34 AM
So....we all pretty much have the issue....but none of our cars are going to be covered by the recall. I'm just gonna fix it myself, and not wait on BMW. Totally ludicrous.

aurelius
10-20-2011, 06:12 AM
From BMW's letter to dealers, which contains a Q&A aimed at customers:

"Q15. When will I receive my owner notification letter?
Mailings are planned for October 2011.

Q16. Do I have to wait for my recall letter in order to have my recall performed?
Yes. BMW is in the process of implementing the recall campaign to ensure that the necessary parts are at the authorized BMW center prior to sending out the owner notification letters."

llll1l1ll
10-20-2011, 09:13 AM
Maybe they are just waiting for the parts, then. I dunno. Corporations are slow, I guess.

danewilson77
10-20-2011, 09:49 AM
Everyday I drive to work with this tail light issue, and they're gonna tell me my car isn't covered? How did they come up with this? What cars are covered?

Early....late.....mid models?

Who has actually gotten a positive response that their car was covered, when calling BMW NA?

aurelius
10-20-2011, 10:45 AM
My guess is all this simply isn't "in the system" yet. Until that happens, all appear not to be covered by the recall. The recall itself, however, specifically mentions all model year 2002-05 E46 sedans.

You could always take it in, have it fixed per the SIB, pay for it, and later get a refund.

One aspect of this that remains unclear to me is whether BMW will replace the affected wiring, whether or not the car in question is experiencing symptoms at the time it's examined.

Meric
10-20-2011, 11:38 AM
This what i got from my dealer!!

"Good Morning,

This recall does apply on your vehicle.

Please feel free to give the Service department a quick call at (403)539-2030 so we can get you booked in for an appointment and take care of this for you.

Kinds Regards,

Hanadi Khawaja
Service Coordinator
Calgary BMW
Tel (403)-539-2030 Ext 3048
Fax (403)-253-6638 "

Meric
10-20-2011, 01:48 PM
Got an appointment on November 7th.

Rovert
10-20-2011, 01:52 PM
^ Can you please get this repair printed officially by the dealership/BMW that we can print and bring to our dealerships? :) That would make the process even easier for those dealership that are ignorant to this recall. Thanks!!!

AUSS1E
10-20-2011, 02:10 PM
so what is the fix? anyone had it done yet?

danewilson77
10-20-2011, 02:11 PM
so what is the fix? anyone had it done yet?

Yup. Many have done it. It's about $30 and adds an extra ground wire

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

AUSS1E
10-20-2011, 02:16 PM
So it is pretty much what I have already done myself. IMO not worth 2hrs at a dealer for something I can do myself in 10min

danewilson77
10-20-2011, 02:17 PM
So it is pretty much what I have already done myself. IMO not worth 2hrs at a dealer for something I can do myself in 10min

True....unless you care to tell prospective owner, it was taken care of, properly, at dealer.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

AUSS1E
10-20-2011, 02:40 PM
True....unless you care to tell prospective owner, it was taken care of, properly, at dealer.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT


Driving this car until it dies :)

danewilson77
10-20-2011, 02:46 PM
Driving this car until it dies :)

Me 2.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

AUSS1E
10-20-2011, 03:33 PM
Me 2.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

Well until i can afford to pay cash for a 911 gt3-rs...
but even still i need a DD

Meric
10-20-2011, 06:44 PM
Of course! Rovert if you send me your Whole VIN number i can get it checked at my dealer? Just PM me if you want to. :)

pleasecorrupt
10-21-2011, 01:28 PM
called in to 1(800)831-1117 and they said there were no open recalls on my car..

2004 330i. :talktome

danewilson77
10-21-2011, 02:24 PM
called in to 1(800)831-1117 and they said there were no open recalls on my car..

2004 330i. :talktome

Bullshit.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

Meric
10-21-2011, 09:38 PM
If it's Canadian Car just send me your full Vin number. I'll get it checked for you :) And wait for November 7 I will get an official paper about the recall from my dealer so you can show it :)

danewilson77
11-01-2011, 03:30 PM
Anyone!!!!!

Hermes
11-01-2011, 05:18 PM
I sent southpaw a message, he's heard nothing yet

danewilson77
11-01-2011, 05:46 PM
I sent southpaw a message, he's heard nothing yet

Mmmm.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

nike001
11-01-2011, 07:02 PM
I sent southpaw a message, he's heard nothing yet

Why southpaw?

GSEN820
11-01-2011, 07:06 PM
I sent southpaw a message, he's heard nothing yet

WHOOOOAA Southpaw sighting?????

danewilson77
11-02-2011, 03:27 AM
Why southpaw?

I believe he actually works at a dealer.

llll1l1ll
11-02-2011, 03:30 AM
I still have not received a letter.

I think they forgot about our not so special cars.

echo46
11-02-2011, 05:39 AM
I still have to register my car, I assume I can do it on line. Then when they get around to it I should get a letter?

Whitexi
11-02-2011, 06:06 AM
I've given up lol, I have to go grab a battery and t-stat at my dealer later today. Ill see if they know anything yet.

aurelius
11-02-2011, 09:08 AM
I've given up lol, I have to go grab a battery and t-stat at my dealer later today. Ill see if they know anything yet.

Bring much $$$$$$$$.

Hint: Walmart battery. $110. I believe the one for E46 is Maxx 94R. Made, at least in my area, by Johnson Controls.

nike001
11-02-2011, 04:34 PM
I believe he actually works at a dealer.

..and you believe that I don't? lol

Rovert
11-02-2011, 04:44 PM
I was at the dealership in Vancouver and chatting with a cool BMW tech...he was mentioning me about if I know about the E46 taillight recall. So he knows!

nike001
11-02-2011, 05:17 PM
I was at the dealership in Vancouver and chatting with a cool BMW tech...he was mentioning me about if I know about the E46 taillight recall. So he knows!

Yeah they all know. There was an email sent around to all the dealerships and then printed and handed out to service advisors. They just don't know what they're going to do about it yet apparently.

I should probably note that about a week ago they had an e46 come in for some maintenance...and a part popped up that was something to do with rear tail lights. The advisor was saying something like 'what the hell does this mean?' and i'm assuming they ended up fixing it..

Whitexi
11-03-2011, 03:28 AM
I wonder if they will replace the bulb carriers also, the pins on the ground area are melted like the plugs. There was no one there when I got there to ask, service was closed.

danewilson77
11-06-2011, 04:27 PM
Are both side supposed to have this extra brown ground wire installed? Looks like PO must have had issues on mine, resolved, as the connector has disintegrated, but it appears someone had the "fix" added.

My drivers side has the new ground wire, passenger does not.....but there was no evidence of charring, discoloration, etc.

I hit all connections with electrical cleaner, then a dab of dielectric grease.

I guess the only question I have is above.

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________
That hole is apparently where the old ground connection(female) would have resided....stock.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/IMAG0945.jpg

This is the associated "Male" connection to above. It is toast.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/IMAG0946.jpg

Here is a pic showing the "added" ground connection. "Green dot" is where the "old" ground wire was fed.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/IMAG0947-1.jpg

Whitexi
11-06-2011, 04:33 PM
I did that fix, and my plugs, and bulb holders are the same on both sides.

danewilson77
11-06-2011, 05:32 PM
I did that fix, and my plugs, and bulb holders are the same on both sides.

Ok...then I probably will need to add second ground to passenger side at some point.

Get this....I go to pick Cody up at church...and it dawns on me, that maybe...just maybe...I actually have a bulb out. Got home....put flashes on....sure enough, reverse light, passenger side...out. lube up and reserved. All is good. Have to see if what I did fixes my issue.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

llll1l1ll
11-07-2011, 05:06 AM
FWIW, my car has not notified me of any malfunctioning bulbs in a good month.

Meric
11-07-2011, 09:21 AM
Hello guys i just dropped in my car for taillight issue that bmw fixes for free. Some people wanted a picture of the maintaince i will take a picture of it when i get the car back so in 2 hours i will upload a picture. :) Anyone wants more info just message me. :)

Whitexi
11-07-2011, 10:06 AM
US dealers won't touch it without the recall paper.

danewilson77
11-07-2011, 10:49 AM
Hello guys i just dropped in my car for taillight issue that bmw fixes for free. Some people wanted a picture of the maintaince i will take a picture of it when i get the car back so in 2 hours i will upload a picture. :) Anyone wants more info just message me. :)

Sounds good.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

Meric
11-07-2011, 03:54 PM
http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/6274/zhpn.jpg

Here it is guys! :) (By the way they really do a great job with washing the car. )

danewilson77
11-07-2011, 04:43 PM
Well will you look at that.

Whitexi
11-07-2011, 05:21 PM
So Meric they only added a ground?

What if your plugs are destroyed as well as your bulb carrier like Dane's, mine etc? Were your plugs melted like in Danes pic?

Meric
11-07-2011, 05:50 PM
I told them to change every part that involves or faces any heat so they changed everything plastic and cables they didnt put it in the recipt because they say they would charge me money for it. Good guys. :)

echo46
11-08-2011, 05:27 AM
I was at the new BMW dealership in Bayshore, NY to pick up a new CCV and hoses, and I asked a parts guy about the recall. His reaction at best was equivocal. He said that he heard about it and that he was told some customers called about it. He said he thought that the service techs would know more about it. Come on, man! First, the guy gave me the wrong hoses for th CCV, insisted that I was wrong and only relented after he printed out a copy of the CCV and it's hoses and asked another guy standing there. Not that it really matters but this is the dealership they should know.

trancenation
11-12-2011, 12:43 PM
talked to the local dealer about the recall and they said my 05MY 3/04 build was not included in the recall. Contacted bmw directly and they said to wait for a recall notice if there is one -.- . Has anyone in the US taken care of this recall yet?

nike001
11-12-2011, 01:03 PM
I'm just going to do it myself.

Just cut the ground wire and re-route it. Not a hard thing to do..

danewilson77
11-12-2011, 04:00 PM
I'm just going to do it myself.

Just cut the ground wire and re-route it. Not a hard thing to do..

DIY is the way to go. Check out DIY.....in......DIY section.

LivesNearCostco
11-15-2011, 11:22 AM
I added the extra ground wires myself in the summer of 2010, but I want the BMW dealer to replace the plastic harness plugs that have the burned out hole where the old ground wire went. For me it's the principal of the thing--they designed it incorrectly and announced a recall, so they should fix it.

quikryptonite
11-15-2011, 11:27 AM
How come our good friends to the north know what is going on and the dealers in the lower 48 have no clue? This is crazy.

Meric
11-15-2011, 02:04 PM
How come our good friends to the north know what is going on and the dealers in the lower 48 have no clue? This is crazy.

Haha i know right? I even sent the maintaince paper. Did anybody show it to their local dealer?

quikryptonite
11-17-2011, 01:25 PM
I called the local dealer today, I gave her the last seven numbers of my VIN and she told me there were no open recalls for my car. Argh.

danewilson77
11-17-2011, 01:55 PM
I called the local dealer today, I gave her the last seven numbers of my VIN and she told me there were no open recalls for my car. Argh.

Mmmm.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

llll1l1ll
11-18-2011, 04:15 AM
I think it's going to be a while before we even see anything. They probably have to go through tons and tons of records in their database and compare them to all fifty states and the counties therein.

edlvrt
11-19-2011, 03:57 PM
I stopped in the local dealership for a few parts this afternoon. I asked the service guys for any updates, and they they said they are aware of the recall, but don't know when they will get the green light to start fixing things. So who knows.

danewilson77
12-07-2011, 02:17 PM
http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/IMAG1036.jpg

quikryptonite
12-07-2011, 02:38 PM
http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/IMAG1036.jpg

No way! It finally came? I hope mine comes soon. I'd like to get this taken care of pronto.

Meric
12-07-2011, 05:19 PM
http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/IMAG1036.jpg


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3h6kOLYGtI

???

danewilson77
12-07-2011, 05:20 PM
I can take it in and have them dhu it so its documented...

Meric
12-07-2011, 05:25 PM
Yah atleast you would have a document for what has been done to the car. :)

Johnmadd
12-07-2011, 05:45 PM
Mine came in the mail today also, I knew exactly what it was before I even opened it.

goofiefoot
12-07-2011, 06:19 PM
Hey, look! Dane and I have something in common! Other than the whole Imola sedan thing, that is... ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/jasongoode/2004%20BMW%20330i%20ZHP/763eb90e.jpg

trancenation
12-07-2011, 07:01 PM
thanks for sharing guys. Did you guys purchase your cars new/used? J/w because i'm not sure if i will get a notice or not since I bought it used.

danewilson77
12-07-2011, 07:06 PM
thanks for sharing guys. Did you guys purchase your cars new/used? J/w because i'm not sure if i will get a notice or not since I bought it used.

Used.... But I called BMW NA to ensure they new my address and that I was registered owner.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

goofiefoot
12-07-2011, 08:44 PM
^^ ditto ^^

aurelius
12-08-2011, 07:01 AM
You can also use the Owner's Circle section on bmwusa.com

Also: to those who haven't done so, pull out your rear tail assemblies (sedan only) and have a look. Mine were fixed before I got the car.

Meaning, someone out there is due a refund as part of this recall. But it ain't me.

Scorpius
12-08-2011, 09:06 AM
got my notice today in the mail as well! Knew right when i saw it was from BMW and a recall that it must be for the tail lights. cool....now they can replace my melted connector. I did manage to get the pin reseated years back, but the plastic that holds the pin on the left lamp is melted so it wont hold it, you have to hold the wire and push it into place.

YEAAAA about dang time.....FINALLY bmw steps up on this. sheesh took long enough.

danewilson77
12-08-2011, 09:23 AM
Still awaiting ZKW recall....

Johnmadd
12-08-2011, 02:14 PM
Still awaiting ZKW recall....

+1

kayger12
12-08-2011, 02:25 PM
I got my recall notice today for the 325i that I don't own anymore.

danewilson77
12-08-2011, 02:28 PM
I got my recall notice today for the 325i that I don't own anymore.

Do you have tail light issues? Or no?

kayger12
12-08-2011, 02:30 PM
Negative-- and I did the ground wire DIY on the 325 when I had it.

Just thought it was funny that it showed up today.

danewilson77
12-08-2011, 02:51 PM
Negative-- and I did the ground wire DIY on the 325 when I had it.

Just thought it was funny that it showed up today.

Copy

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

Whitexi
12-08-2011, 04:09 PM
I got my letter also....... horray! I just hope they fix the connectors since there melted.

jreyes19
12-08-2011, 04:11 PM
I got my letter today too bad i sold my tails
(in retrospect i probably should have kept them, oh well)

Oli77
12-08-2011, 06:10 PM
I too got the letter from BMW today but I have no taillight issue (yet).

Mtnman
12-08-2011, 07:03 PM
got mine. cant wait to take it to bmw where three weeks ago, i asked them about it and they had no idea.....

edlvrt
12-08-2011, 07:18 PM
Got my letter in the mail as well. Gotta love the part where they will tow your car to the shop if you are "concerned with continuing to drive." Lawyers....

They could have/should have changed every reference of taillights to headlights


Still awaiting ZKW recall....

See my updated thread...
http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?3625-ZKW-Reflector-Recall-Open-NTHSA-Investigation&p=132024#post132024

nike001
12-09-2011, 07:24 AM
Got mine as well

bimmeryota
12-09-2011, 07:52 AM
Got my letter yesterday as well...
I already did the ground wire addition a couple of years ago since I was having the bulb fault and the rear lights were'nt very bright. I caught it before it fried the wires but I'm going to inspect it again...

llll1l1ll
12-09-2011, 08:04 AM
Aw man I hope I have mine in the mail today. I updated my address with them on the website weeks ago and about a month ago I called them and they knew it was me after I gave them my information. So my car is definitely registered with them.

Matt
12-09-2011, 08:51 AM
Got my letter yesterday. Didn't call or anything... It just showed up.

Sent from my fists using Tapatalk.

quikryptonite
12-09-2011, 09:23 AM
I got my letter yesterday. I just realized that when I was driving my car back from Dallas I was getting warning lights on my instrument cluster saying the passenger side rear bulb's weren't working. I haven't seen it since then, probably the faulty ground. I'll probably set up an appointment after the holidays.

LivesNearCostco
12-09-2011, 03:05 PM
I feel left out for not getting my recall notification letter yet! I emailed BMW NA customer service to make sure they have me in their database as the owner.

az3579
12-09-2011, 07:10 PM
Damn.
I was excited to see the letter; I thought I'd be the first to post up pics. Came to this thread with pics ready and then saw that DW already posted them. Beat me to the punch... again! Oh well!

Got the letter.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa192/az3579/Temp/2011-12-09215804.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa192/az3579/Temp/2011-12-09215923.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa192/az3579/Temp/2011-12-09215951.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa192/az3579/Temp/2011-12-09220113.jpg

Whitexi
12-10-2011, 06:09 AM
The battle isn't won yet. We still have to deal with the dealers!

llll1l1ll
12-12-2011, 04:21 AM
Turns out I got my letter on Thursday. I never checked my mail Thursday because I went straight from my office desk to the office holiday happy hour.

Now to make my appointment. I heard VOB of Rockville is notoriously bad, and I think that's the closest one except for BMW of Arlington. Both of these aren't as easily Metro accessible... Dang it.

echo46
12-12-2011, 04:32 AM
Yep, I got my letter last Friday. Haven't called the stealer yet. Anybody deal with their stealership yet?

llll1l1ll
12-13-2011, 10:23 AM
Welp, just made my appointment for the 29th. The receptionist knew about the recall.

RVAzhp
12-14-2011, 03:32 PM
Haven't made my appointment yet, because well it says they don't even have the damn parts to fix it? i honestly havent' had a problem, so idk. my rear lamp light has come on once or twice since i've owned the car

MafiaAmor
12-17-2011, 12:04 PM
I just got my letter. They don't have the parts!!! My rear lamps never have burnt out or given me problems.

BMW did say they would announce when the parts are available to complete the recall accurately.

Arghh....cmon

LivesNearCostco
12-17-2011, 08:29 PM
Dec 9th I complained I didn't have a letter and emailed BMW NA to verify they had my correct address. Dec 10th I got the letter--they must have already had me on file from the California state DMV records.

derbo
12-18-2011, 05:26 PM
My dealer shows an open recall for my car so it will show up on the vehicle comments till it is performed at a dealership.

llll1l1ll
12-19-2011, 04:35 AM
My letter said that "some places may not have parts." Heh, I think I'm gonna get all the way down to the shop only to have them tell me they can't do it since they don't have the parts. Luckily, they can't close the recall until they issue the repair, so it's not like they can scam me.

Edit: Some paranoid thoughts this morning!

HokieZHP
12-21-2011, 12:45 PM
I got my letter a week or so ago and my rear left light is on. The bulb holder is bad I think because the bulb is on half of the time and it's off most of the time then I tap the taillight and it comes on again sometimes.

Has anyone gone to the stealership yet? I'm debating whether or not it's worth it since the one by me has a reputation for hotrodding cars... :/

llll1l1ll
12-29-2011, 07:35 AM
I just got back from the stealership. I made an appointment ahead of time. I gave up the key at 9:26 and they had the car back to me at 9:55. It looked like someone snooped around in the trunk and the correct parts were on the sheet.

iZHP
12-29-2011, 04:17 PM
Just picked mine up from Service @ Prestige BMW in Ramsey, NJ.

They did the recall and noticed some other things about the car which I never knew. Like my LR wheel is cracked on the inside... :jawdrop

Newjack
12-29-2011, 09:33 PM
I just got back from the stealership. I made an appointment ahead of time. I gave up the key at 9:26 and they had the car back to me at 9:55. It looked like someone snooped around in the trunk and the correct parts were on the sheet.

Did you take it to VOB? I trust tischer a lot more than VOB.

Gingervolt + Tapatalk

llll1l1ll
12-30-2011, 05:00 AM
I took it to VOB ::shrug:: I'm still new to the area (really just the shops around the area). To me, any shop is questionable. You don't know for sure unless you do it yourself.

If the light comes back on, I'll take it back. But that probably won't do any good, since they will more than likely have mentioned in the car's history that they've repaired it. I'm sure there's some sort of legal battle I could pursue, but damn it, I have other things to do (read: play Xbox and drink beer).

Newjack
12-30-2011, 03:32 PM
I took it to VOB ::shrug:: I'm still new to the area (really just the shops around the area). To me, any shop is questionable. You don't know for sure unless you do it yourself.

If the light comes back on, I'll take it back. But that probably won't do any good, since they will more than likely have mentioned in the car's history that they've repaired it. I'm sure there's some sort of legal battle I could pursue, but damn it, I have other things to do (read: play Xbox and drink beer).

Amen brother

Gingervolt + Tapatalk

BustedBoat
01-04-2012, 08:18 PM
I also just got the letter a week ago. As far as I know I haven't had any issues at all. Should I still take it in?

trancenation
01-04-2012, 10:07 PM
took it in last week and surprisingly, my car already had it done. (bought it pre owned)

Crickett
01-05-2012, 01:53 PM
Got my letter last week, too. I've already done the DIY fix shortly after I bought it back in '07; my dealership then told me about the fix then & was going to have it done under warranty (< 50 k miles), but couldn't get the parts in before I had to leave.

Having done the DIY fix, d'ya think they'll still give me the official fix?

Meric
01-11-2012, 08:37 PM
They probably will. But it's weird when I handed in my car it took 2-3 hours to fix it xD

drfreeman
04-17-2012, 09:41 AM
anyone know if I did DIY myself, will dealer still fix it for me ? my warning light showed up again even I did the re-ground wire stuff when the weather is cold. What did the dealer change, the carrier, the ground or the adapter ? Thanks

LivesNearCostco
04-17-2012, 11:16 AM
I did most of the DIY and the dealer still did the fix for me because I needed new plastic harness plugs. I had to leave the car for several hours but they gave me a 128 loaner. Not sure if that's standard policy or specific to this dealer. They didn't charge and refunded me $6.50 for some of the BMW parts I'd purchased for the DIY. (I'd spent about $30 on parts but they only reimbursed for specific parts from the recall list.). Besides the new plugs, not sure what else they replaced because they taped all the new wires with electrical tape. In fact I don't if they replaced the bulb carriers or not (probably not).

After I did my DIY, I still had a rear bulb-out warning that drove me crazy for a week or two. Then I checked the bulbs in the trunk lid and found one of them was in fact failing, it just wasn't completely out yet. Previously I'd checked and re-checked the other tail bulbs but not the ones in the trunk lid.

drfreeman
04-17-2012, 11:26 AM
I did most of the DIY and the dealer still did the fix for me because I needed new plastic harness plugs. I had to leave the car for several hours but they gave me a 128 loaner. Not sure if that's standard policy or specific to this dealer. They didn't charge and refunded me $6.50 for some of the BMW parts I'd purchased for the DIY. (I'd spent about $30 on parts but they only reimbursed for specific parts from the recall list.). Besides the new plugs, not sure what else they replaced because they taped all the new wires with electrical tape. In fact I don't if they replaced the bulb carriers or not (probably not).

After I did my DIY, I still had a rear bulb-out warning that drove me crazy for a week or two. Then I checked the bulbs in the trunk lid and found one of them was in fact failing, it just wasn't completely out yet. Previously I'd checked and re-checked the other tail bulbs but not the ones in the trunk lid.

you mean the trunk light bulb not the tail light bulb ? And thanks for your info :)

az3579
04-17-2012, 07:51 PM
I did most of the DIY and the dealer still did the fix for me because I needed new plastic harness plugs.

Just before you read this, it's nothing against you.


Reading that comment royally pisses me off. I say this because I specifically checked for the connector after the dealer performed my "fix" and that plug still had a hole the size of China in it, with the ground wire completely out of the harness still burned to a crisp. They didn't do a damned thing for the hour they had my car other than come up with a list of things they feel I have to fix on the car, claimed to have performed the fix (even though I already had the fix applied), and then proceeded to tell me that the plastic connector does NOT get replaced unless it is affecting the wires around it. WTF?

I wanted my plastic connector replaced, which is the SOLE reason for going to the dealer to get this "recall" repair done, and instead I left an hour and a half shorter on time and nothing but disappointment and frustration. I have to live with this now with a destroyed connector. :mad

danewilson77
04-18-2012, 03:51 AM
^Ugh. I am soooo not taking my car in for this....as I have already DIY'd it.

drfreeman
04-18-2012, 01:40 PM
^Ugh. I am soooo not taking my car in for this....as I have already DIY'd it.

I know. It takes time going to stealership and mostly end up wasting my time, properly half day. I did DIY on both sides, it was warning light for both and the right side was completely fixed after re-ground the wire. Now the morning cold weather caused the left side warning light again, it will turn off later after warming it up. I think it must be the carrier problem. I don't know if I should send it back to the stealer recall or buy a new carrier myself, any advice ?

danewilson77
04-18-2012, 02:27 PM
I know. It takes time going to stealership and mostly end up wasting my time, properly half day. I did DIY on both sides, it was warning light for both and the right side was completely fixed after re-ground the wire. Now the morning cold weather caused the left side warning light again, it will turn off later after warming it up. I think it must be the carrier problem. I don't know if I should send it back to the stealer recall or buy a new carrier myself, any advice ?

I just did this. I have not had a BOW since. I think it's pretty close to what they do.

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?5400-My-(Meric-s)-E46-Tail-Light-Ground-Fix....&amp;p=122387

Sent from SIGFest-2012, USA on HTC via TTv2

drfreeman
04-18-2012, 02:56 PM
Thanks Dane :) Do you think the melted adapter can cause problem again ? We just re-grounded it and didn't change a new wire adapter.

danewilson77
04-18-2012, 03:06 PM
Thanks Dane :) Do you think the melted adapter can cause problem again ? We just re-grounded it and didn't change a new wire adapter.

Dunno. It hasn't for me. I think the way they grounded it was bad, so I don't expect the problem to return.

Sent from SIGFest-2012, USA on HTC via TTv2

LivesNearCostco
04-18-2012, 11:35 PM
I have an unused pair of the black harness plugs, if any Mafia member needs them. It just looks like a lot of work to get all the wires out of the old plug. That's why I didn't replace them in my DIY.

az3579
04-19-2012, 04:50 PM
I have an unused pair of the black harness plugs, if any Mafia member needs them. It just looks like a lot of work to get all the wires out of the old plug. That's why I didn't replace them in my DIY.

I'd like to take you up on that. How much are you looking for, for a single connector?


Sent from my iPhone 4S from Tapatalk

LivesNearCostco
04-20-2012, 12:40 AM
You can have one or both for $2 shipped (US Mail). Just PM me your mailing address and let me know if you're in a hurry or not, because I'll soon be on a trip for a week. If you only need one, I can save the other for another Mafia member DIY. Or take both and if you don't use both, you can hold the other for another family member.

RITmusic2k
05-08-2012, 03:41 PM
So, this problem just started affecting me... I think.

I got the tail-light-out warning and my left rear tail light is actually burned out. I called up my dealer to inquire as to whether the recall was still active and they pulled up my records, and then told me my car was not listed as part of the recall.

Is it possible that my system is fine and I actually just had a bad bulb, or should I start calling other dealers?

az3579
05-08-2012, 04:02 PM
You can have one or both for $2 shipped (US Mail). Just PM me your mailing address and let me know if you're in a hurry or not, because I'll soon be on a trip for a week. If you only need one, I can save the other for another Mafia member DIY. Or take both and if you don't use both, you can hold the other for another family member.

Wow, I completely missed this post. Sweet!
Sending you a PM in a few minutes.


So, this problem just started affecting me... I think.

I got the tail-light-out warning and my left rear tail light is actually burned out. I called up my dealer to inquire as to whether the recall was still active and they pulled up my records, and then told me my car was not listed as part of the recall.

Is it possible that my system is fine and I actually just had a bad bulb, or should I start calling other dealers?

Check to see if the ground connection on your wiring harness connector is burnt out, or if you see any discoloration of the pins. If you see nothing like that, then you should be good, though you should still perform the additional ground mod just to make sure it never happens to you.

danewilson77
05-08-2012, 04:29 PM
R I T,

Did you ever recieve a letter? Could be a bad bulb also.....as stated.

aurelius
05-09-2012, 06:40 AM
FWIW, my mother's E46 is on the recall list yet she never got a letter. Her contact info is current with BMW NA.

Her left lamp was done on the PO's dime. FYI if this is the case with any of you, BMW is reimbursing for tail lamp ground wire service done prior to a certain date as part of this recall.

Again, this recall only applies to MY 02+ E46 sedans.

Also worth repeating is that if you can turn a plastic knob with your fingers, you can check to see if yours have been done or whether they're melted, etc. Which is way easier and faster than a dealer appointment.

NorCalZman
05-09-2012, 08:00 AM
Just had mine done right after I got my car last month. The PO had the letter in the folder of papers he gave me. I simply asked about the recall at the dealer and they looked up the car and said yes lets do it. I didnt need to show the letter.

RITmusic2k
05-09-2012, 08:36 AM
I never received the letter, but I figure the symptoms should be enough to warrant the work...

I'll check the tail light assemblies out this weekend and see what's what. Thanks for the input, all!

LivesNearCostco
05-09-2012, 08:04 PM
One replacement tail light harness plug--black, plastic, rectangular--mailed to BP! (Hopefully it's the right one.)

az3579
05-10-2012, 09:06 AM
One replacement tail light harness plug--black, plastic, rectangular--mailed to BP! (Hopefully it's the right one.)

Sweet, thanks! Please PM me your PayPal and cost.




Sent from my iPhone 4S from Tapatalk

Whitexi
05-11-2012, 02:34 PM
So I took mine in and they couldn't do it. They said a new harness isn't covered in the recall. So I got a 2011 328xi loaner from Friday to Saturday. It was awesome to drive something that new lol.

This was last month so the lights work as normal im just rocking it out as it was.

edlvrt
05-14-2012, 08:03 AM
I had mine fixed at the dealer about a month ago, and my dash warning light is back again. Time for another trip...

llll1l1ll
09-26-2012, 04:46 AM
Has anyone ever had an issue with the taillight problem coming back? My taillight malfunction indicator came on this morning, but both appear to be working. If they botched the repair, would the fix still be free?

danewilson77
09-26-2012, 05:04 AM
Should be covered if it was fixed improperly.

llll1l1ll
09-26-2012, 06:33 AM
Nice. I'm sure the stealership will try to tell me otherwise.

echo46
09-26-2012, 02:45 PM
I'm sure they will but it should be covered as they did the original fix. That being said, there is a reason it is called the stealership.

sketchyd
09-26-2012, 03:22 PM
LOL....that we get the info faster than the dealers.......hehe.

that's actually not all that uncommon.


I wonder why BMW did not include the 99-01 Sedans and Coupes in this recall? I sell just as many bulb carriers and wiring kits for these as the 02-05 Sedans.

that's what i was assuming this would be, where the bulb sockets and carriers burn. seen it in X5s a couple of times too. would be interested in the followup when it's officially released to find out what they're actually doing to the cars.

llll1l1ll
09-27-2012, 03:40 AM
I don't know if it makes much of a difference, but the left side top brake light is out and the right side bottom brake light is out. Does anybody think this has anything to do with the fix?

bimmeryota
09-28-2012, 07:37 AM
Got my appointment at BMW of Encinitas Monday. I did the DIY fix on my own a few years ago so I hope they'll still do the repair. But I'm curious to see what my loaner car will be regardless!

llll1l1ll
10-01-2012, 05:56 AM
I talked to the local stealership on Saturday. Guy said that they "did the repair to specifications if it was a recall" and that it should be okay. He said that they could take a look to see what the problem is for $130.00, and then he quoted me a light bulb replacement at $100.00. HAHAHA

I'll just look this afternoon.

danewilson77
10-01-2012, 07:15 AM
I talked to the local stealership on Saturday. Guy said that they "did the repair to specifications if it was a recall" and that it should be okay. He said that they could take a look to see what the problem is for $130.00, and then he quoted me a light bulb replacement at $100.00. HAHAHA

I'll just look this afternoon.

Bullshit.

Sent from Williamsburg, VA USA

az3579
10-01-2012, 07:42 AM
Got my appointment at BMW of Encinitas Monday. I did the DIY fix on my own a few years ago so I hope they'll still do the repair. But I'm curious to see what my loaner car will be regardless!

Nope. They don't do jack shit if the fix is already applied. I was under the impression that they would replace the melted connector, but nooooo. Instead they claimed they did the fix and when I went to check on it, it was in exactly the same state as what I brought it in. Still had the spliced in ground wire. I was really annoyed that they wasted an hour of my time to do diddly squat and then claim that they performed the fix when in reality I had it done myself. :shifty


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echo46
10-03-2012, 05:53 AM
I can't tell you how disappointed I am with the stealerships. While I am sure there are people that work there that truly have the love for these cars as we all do but it just seems to me that it is all about how to pry that last friggin dollar out of our pockets. Sad.

bimmeryota
10-04-2012, 04:52 AM
Nope. They don't do jack shit if the fix is already applied. I was under the impression that they would replace the melted connector, but nooooo. Instead they claimed they did the fix and when I went to check on it, it was in exactly the same state as what I brought it in. Still had the spliced in ground wire. I was really annoyed that they wasted an hour of my time to do diddly squat and then claim that they performed the fix when in reality I had it done myself. :shifty


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Wow, I'll have to check it when I get back in town. I left the car for the day and took an e90 loaner car(which I didn't like very much and wanted my car back). I would think that they would have said something but maybe not.

llll1l1ll
10-08-2012, 03:43 AM
I still feel like they didn't do anything to my car when they did the recall, or they just put everything back in the trunk exactly what it looked like when I went in.

Newjack
10-10-2012, 06:13 AM
I still feel like they didn't do anything to my car when they did the recall, or they just put everything back in the trunk exactly what it looked like when I went in.

It doesn't take more than a minute to check what they did. I did mine the other day with the diy found on this forum. Driver ground wire was totally worth fried, dunno how I didn't have a BOW. Since I have led tails my ground wire fix was a little different, but I fixed it along with my dim inner trunk light. Must have been a loose connection or something because I didn't do anything to it and it works fine now.

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llll1l1ll
10-10-2012, 07:59 AM
I finally have some spare time today where I can peel back the trunk lining and take a look-see.

llll1l1ll
10-11-2012, 04:04 AM
I didn't realize how easy it was to take off the taillight cover. It's just like my E30!

Anyway, turns out I just have a burnt bulb. Got all bent out of shape for nothing.

bimmeryota
10-26-2012, 06:25 PM
Looked at the repair before I left for this most recent trip and it looks like you guys were right. They just took the money from BMWNA and left my DIY fix in place. At least I had an e90 for the day, but that thing was a bore compared to my e46...

Crestwood1001
10-26-2012, 07:55 PM
My car isn't covered but in the recent cold weather I get a tail lights out (both) warning on startup that goes away after 10 seconds or so, and one time it stayed on till I shut the car off and turned it back on.... Thoughts?


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danewilson77
10-26-2012, 08:00 PM
My car isn't covered but in the recent cold weather I get a tail lights out (both) warning on startup that goes away after 10 seconds or so, and one time it stayed on till I shut the car off and turned it back on.... Thoughts?


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You have the issue. See if they will fix it, or use my diy and fix it yourself.

Sent from Williamsburg, VA USA

aurelius
12-12-2013, 12:23 PM
Ok, so our non-ZHP E46 ('02 325i) has false brake light failure warning lights. Constantly lit, not intermittent. Recall procedure done by local BMW dealer in 2012. Both right and rear brake lights and tail lights are all working perfectly, as is the 3rd brake light up at the top of the rear window.

Sounds like the problem is HERE (http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=530038) but am wondering if anyone else has experienced this, post-recall. If so, warranty repair?

Ideas?

danewilson77
12-12-2013, 03:12 PM
Yeah. Just fix it yourself. 1/10 DIY.

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?5400-My-(Meric-s)-E46-Tail-Light-Ground-Fix....&highlight=Tail+light

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

Lanister
12-12-2013, 04:02 PM
I keep waiting for BMW to put out a recall to fix everyone's VANOS. No thing yet. :shifty

Avetiso
12-12-2013, 05:39 PM
I keep waiting for BMW to put out a recall to fix everyone's VANOS. No thing yet. :shifty

Keep dreaming, buddy.

They should have done the headlights a long time ago.