-------- Original Message -------- Subject: Re: BMW - Faulty switch/wiring for hazards and central locking ? Date: Tue, 03 Jun 2008 13:48:14 +0100 From: Jeff Newsgroups: uk.rec.cars.maintenance References:
John wrote:
> I have an E46 BMW 320d auto '03 plate.
>>
>> In the centre console there is the handbrake, next to it a coin tray with
>> roller shutter cover, and forward of that is the auto shift lever. Mounted
>> in the console, between the coin tray and the shift lever, are two buttons
>> side by side...one for the hazard lights and the other (un)locks the
>> central locking.
>>
>> The other day I got in the car and found that neither of these buttons now
>> works. So I cannot operate my hazards, and cannot lock the car all round
>> from the inside.
>>
>> I've decided that the buttons don't 'feel' right when I try to operate
>> them, but that may just be my imagination(?).
>>
>> So I reckon that either a fuse has blown, or a connector come unplugged,
>> or the switch unit has come apart under the console panel.
>>
>> I had a look at the fuses and following the info panel I haven't found a
>> blown fuse that might be related to these circuits.
>>
>> So I decided I wanted to take the switch unit out. But the unit appears to
>> be well mounted into the panel (possibly from behind?), so it doesn't look
>> like you can spring it out from the front.
>>
>> I also removed the plastic moulding that contains the coin tray, but that
>> still doesn't get you access to the rear of the switch unit.
>>
>> I would like to get access inside the console, behind the switch unit, to
>> see if it has come apart or a connector come off. If anyone knows how to
>> get in there I would really like to know. If of course you know it is
>> likely to be some other cause, I would be keen to know that too. >>
>> Many thanks
>>
>> Jeff
>
> I guess it is possible that the mechanism has got gummed up and has jammed.
> What about getting some Servisol Switch Cleaner / Lubricant (Maplins) and
> spray it down the gap in the buttons?
>
>
Nope....no joy :0( >
Success at last! Turns out the switch panel does come out from the front of the console facia, so long as you have a slim blade to prise it out.
And as I suspected, the switch mechanism had come apart. So I put it all back together again and applied a little 'Airfix' glue and it all works fine again. :0)