brake light failure

[DFL]

1995 325i

I just got an error "1 brake light failure". Checked and the right one is definitely out. Swapped out the left one that works, and it does not light up. What else is there?

Thanks

[LiquidBMW76]

It might not work because when you took the left one out you may have created an open circut. Try putting the light bulb back in the left and replacing the bad right bulb it should fix it.

[Jeron]

Also check the contacts in the socket and bend them to touch the bulb more securely. Get some dielectric compound to make a better connection. Use a circuit tester to make sure there is power to the socket mount.

[DFL]

I did leave the other bulb out when I checked it; I will try again when I get home from work. I will also try using a circuit tester. Thanks for the input. I will let you know what happens.

[DFL]

Swapped out left to right, no change. I turned on the lights and that bulb is working. Is there a switch under the brake pedal that activates that side? As soon as you step on the brake the error message comes on and that side does not work.

[LiquidBMW76]

If I'm correct there is only one switch and it operates all of the brake lights. Is the dead side getting any power to the socket if not you have a wire grounded somewhere.

[Jeron]

Some early E36's (Pre 96?) had a problem with the wires wearing though the insulation where the wire loom enters the trunk lid.

Did you check the socket too? Or try swapping the socket AND bulb side to side?

[DFL]

If the tail light is working on that side, then I assume that the socket is getting power. Just the brake light is not working? Any chance the housing itself has gone bad somehow?

[DFL]

I'll check the wiring loom tonight. I hope I find the problem before we all run out of ideas!

Thanks

[jtmc325]

I have a 95 325I and had the same problem. Replaced the brake light switch behind the brake pedal, will have to remove the drivers lower dash panel. Its not very hard, just hard to get to. The switch goes in a metal bracket and is hard to get out, just brake the old one off and snap the new one in place. I have not had that problem since changing the switch, should be less than $20.

[Ad Hoc]

The brake light switches are notorius culprits.

Also, a related issue although not necessarily on point for your specific problem is that in my 93 325i if I don't use identical bulbs in each side for any bulb replacement (i.e., purchasing and installing a pair of Sylvania bulbs), my computer will display error messages - very persnickity.

[Jeron]

I thought brake light switches threw a "brake circuit failure" on the computer.