Brake lights check light...

[hobieboy]

The brake check light on my 87 E30 325i recently decided to stay on (this is the one that shows up in the roof panel).

I have triple checked that all brake lights are functional. So... what can the problem be?

Any help is appreciated.

thanks....

[wolf_walker]

Mine does a variation of this, check light on the dash flashes, brake light on check panel overhead on, till you touch the brake pedal, then they go away, never to return, till next key off/on.
Got me, I'm still learning..

[hobieboy]

Wolf,
Ths behaviour you described is standard - that's how its suppoesd to be.

My problem is that after touching the brake pedal, the light stays on even though I confirmed that all brake lights are functional.

Anyone???

[7hills]

It sounds wierd, but you may have the wrong bulbs in the brake lights. An American standard 1157 bulb will not work with the on board computer. You need to get the correct spec bulb to get your "Check" light to turn off. I believe the correct number is a 1073. Your local parts store can look up the correct number to verify.

There are several bulbs that will fit, but they will cause the check light to malfunction

[wolf_walker]

Well, ok. Glad that's normal.

See what happens when you get a new car with no owners manual..

[jase007]

Here is one on Ebay 1989 Owner's manual for $28.

Would suite your needs fine.

Jason

[hobieboy]

Well, I'm lost... I made sure the bulbs are the correct type (they are P21W) and none is burnt.

The problem will cure itself once in a blue moon all by itself but for the most part, it thinks that one of the lights is out.

Other than the rear light housing, is there any other place I need to look. Maybe loose connection?

[bertible]

You've done the right things, the only thing left is the brake light switch, at the brake pedal. However, I've changed the switch, and all the bulbs on my convertible, getting the expensive bulbs from the dealer. I've also cleaned the contacts at all three brake light bulbs. The light still stays on at all times, even after touching the brake pedal first thing and pressing the roof button.

I'm thinking that the device looks at resistance and maybe old wiring has higher resistance? I'm thinking that I'll need to cover the led with paint!

If anyone else figures it out, let me know too.

Gary