BMW X3 Brake Warning Light Mystery, Need Help!

Hey there! I've got some experience working on BMWs. I had a similar issue with my 2004 BMW X5 3.0i last year (I also own a 325i). That brake warning light got me worried too! Turned out I just hadn't screwed my brake fluid cap on properly after checking the levels. Double-check if your brake fluid cap is properly seated, that's what triggered my warning light. Once I properly secured it, the warning disappeared immediately. Didn't cost me anything to fix! Could you share if you've recently checked or topped up your brake fluid? Also, what's the exact error code you're getting? This would help narrow down if it's the same issue I faced or something else. I've got some experience with BMWs, but I'd still recommend getting it checked by a pro if the warning persists after checking the cap.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I actually haven't touched the brake fluid cap recently, my last service was about 3 months ago at 157035 KM. The error code I'm getting is 4F32, and the warning light just keeps coming back even after clearing it. Unlike your situation, I can hear a faint click under the brake pedal when I press it, which made me think it might be the switch. I've changed the brake pads recently too, so I'm pretty sure it's not a pad wear sensor issue. Really hoping it's just the switch and not something more serious!

Hey again! Thanks for providing those extra details. You know what? That clicking sound you mentioned under the brake pedal, that's exactly what I heard on my X5 before I replaced the brake light switch! And that error code 4F32, yep, that's the same one I got. After dealing with both my BMWs over the years, I've learned these switches can be pretty finicky. Mine started acting up around 160,000 KM, so your mileage is right in that ballpark too. I ended up replacing the switch myself, cost me about €40 for the part. The job took maybe 30 minutes, and the clicking went away completely. Just make sure you get a genuine BMW part, I made the mistake of trying an aftermarket one first, and it didn't last more than a month. Since you've already ruled out the brake pad sensors and checked the fluid, I'm even more convinced it's the switch. It's such a common issue on these models. Would definitely try the switch replacement before looking into anything more complex or expensive. Want me to walk you through how I did the replacement? It's pretty straightforward if you're handy with basic tools.

Thanks so much for the detailed response! That's super reassuring to hear you had the exact same symptoms and error code. Really appreciate you sharing the repair cost too, €40 is way better than what I was worried it might be. I'd actually love to hear how you did the replacement yourself. While I'm pretty comfortable with basic maintenance, I might grab a who's more experienced with BMWs to help out the first time. Would you mind sharing the part number you used? I definitely want to avoid that aftermarket headache you mentioned. Also, did you need any special tools for the job? Might as well get everything ready before I start. Really glad I asked here, you've saved me a potentially expensive trip to the mechanic!