BMW Z3 Electrical Chaos: Multiple System Failures

Hi there! I have some experience working on cars and had a similar issue with my 2003 BMW Z4. The symptoms you're describing sound very familiar, I also had weird electrical problems, including wonky signals and dashboard errors. Took it to my regular workshop last year, and it turned out to be faulty wiring connections in the main harness. The mechanic found corroded plug connections that were causing all sorts of electrical gremlins. The repair involved cleaning and replacing some connectors, which set me back about 95 Euro. After that, all the electrical issues cleared up completely. Before I can give more specific advice, could you share: Engine size? Automatic or manual? Have you noticed any battery drain issues? Any recent work done on the electrical system? These details would help determine if you're dealing with the same problem I had. Electrical issues can be tricky in these models, but usually fixable once you pin down the exact cause.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I've got the 2.2L gasoline engine with manual transmission. Haven't noticed any battery drain, and no recent electrical work done. Last service was at 185806 KM, just routine maintenance. Your wiring harness issue sounds pretty similar to what I'm experiencing. Did your mechanic mention how long the repair took? I'd like to get an idea of how long I might be without the car. Also, were there any specific warning signs before the complete electrical system started acting up? The purple tint in my xenons showed up first, then everything else followed. I'll probably get it checked out next week, but it's good to know what I might be dealing with. Really appreciate the detailed response!

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details about your Z3. Yeah, looking back at my Z4 situation, I remember the whole repair took about 6-7 hours. My mechanic wanted to be thorough since these electrical issues can be pretty sneaky. Funny you mention the xenon lights turning purple first, that's exactly how mine started too! About two months before all the other electrical gremlins showed up, I noticed that slight purple tinge in the headlights. Didn't think much of it at the time, but now I know it was the first warning sign. The turn signals went crazy about a week after that, and then the dashboard started having a mind of its own. With your 2.2L manual, it's likely the same harness configuration as mine. Just make sure you mention the progression of symptoms to your mechanic, especially how it started with the xenons. That'll help them pinpoint the problem faster. Quick tip from my experience, get them to check the connections near the headlight assemblies first. That's where my main corrosion issues were. Mine hasn't given me any trouble since the repair, so hopefully you'll have the same luck! Let me know how it goes when you get it checked out. Always curious to hear if others have the same fix work for them.

Thanks so much, that's super helpful info! Really good to know about the 6-7 hour repair time, I'll make sure to plan accordingly. Actually feeling a bit relieved now that you mentioned having the same purple xenon issue before everything else started acting up. Makes me feel like I'm not just imagining things! I'll definitely tell the mechanic to check those headlight assembly connections first. Might save some diagnostic time if that turns out to be the culprit. It's amazing how these BMWs seem to have such similar patterns when things go wrong. Thanks again for all the detailed advice, really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. I'll update once I get it sorted. Fingers crossed it's just those corroded connections and nothing more serious!

I have received the error code 009CBB short circuit in lamps, it's a 2003 BMW e60. Can anyone tell me how to fix it?

(Translated from Spanish)

Start by checking the bulbs and their connections for any signs of damage or corrosion. A short circuit can often be caused by a faulty bulb or a loose connection. Replace any damaged bulbs and ensure all connections are secure. If the issue persists, it might be necessary to inspect the wiring for any signs of wear or damage. Let me know how it goes or if you have any further questions!