BMW 7-Series Electrical: Dead Audio and Display Issues

Hey there! I can relate as I had a similar issue with my 2012 BMW 5 Series (also had a 3 Series before). I've got some experience working on cars, but mostly basic maintenance stuff. My display was doing exactly what you're describing, flickering and going dark, plus the sound system was acting up. After trying basic troubleshooting like checking connections, I took it to my regular workshop. Turned out the display unit itself was faulty and needed replacement. The whole thing, including labor, set me back about 725 Euro, but it's been working perfectly since then. Could you share more details about when this started happening? Does it occur more when the car is cold or after it's been running for a while? Also, which error code are you getting? This might help pinpoint if you're dealing with the same issue I had.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My issue started about 2 weeks ago, mostly happens when the car's been running for about 15-20 minutes. The error code is U0184, and it's been pretty consistent. I just had my service done at 120251 KM, and everything else is running smoothly. I was hoping to avoid replacing the entire unit because of the cost, but from what you're describing, it might be heading that way. Have you or anyone else found a more budget-friendly fix? Maybe there's a way to repair just the faulty component rather than replacing the whole thing?

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details, that error code and timing actually sound really familiar to what I dealt with on my BMW 5. After my previous reply to you, I actually remembered something I should've mentioned. Before I went ahead with the full display unit replacement, I did try a cheaper fix, there's a common issue with the ribbon cable that connects the display to the main unit. My mechanic and I attempted to reseat and clean the connections first, which only cost about 50 bucks in labor, but unfortunately that didn't solve it in my case. The timing of your issue (15-20 mins after starting) is exactly what I experienced, it's typically when all the electronics are fully warmed up. That U0184 code also points to a communication issue, which is what I had. I totally get wanting to save money, these BMW repairs can be brutal on the wallet. If you want to try the cheaper route first, I'd definitely suggest having someone check those connections and the ribbon cable before jumping into a full replacement. Just keep in mind that if it's anything like my situation, you might end up needing the new unit anyway. At least you'll know you tried the less expensive options first! Let me know what you end up doing, I'm curious if you'll have the same outcome I did.

Thanks so much for the detailed follow-up! You've actually given me some hope with that ribbon cable suggestion. I'll definitely try that first, 50 bucks is way more manageable than a full unit replacement right now. I just called my regular mechanic and he said he's seen this issue before too. He's willing to check the connections and ribbon cable tomorrow morning. Really hoping this turns out to be the simple fix, but at least I know what I might be facing if it isn't. I appreciate you taking the time to share all this info, especially that bit about the ribbon cable that you remembered after your first reply. It's super helpful to hear from someone who's been through the same headache. I'll update here once I know what's actually causing the problem. Fingers crossed for that cheaper fix!