Computer light on Dash - BMW Forum

Twin Que · 04-06-2004, 02:57 PM

Hey gents,
My MID lights (I believe this is the correct terminology) on my dash that display info from my OBC and audio, look like a neon sign gone bad. Many are blown and they display almost illegible information. The lights are located under the speedometer/tachometer. Anyone ever replaced this panel? About how much should I expect to pay?

1997 E39 540i

Phantomstorm · 04-06-2004, 07:10 PM

Hello: You may wish to consider buying a new cluster from Ebay. Currently there are several - one that is factory new (Item number: 2471405515). My understanding is that your onboard computer stores all the vehicle information and the cluster just displays it. So it should make no difference in the readings after changed.
Additionally, I remember seeing a guy on Ebay that was offering a repair for the exact same issue. He had this cute little icon that showed the lites going on and off. I just tried to find him..but I couldnt find the listing.
Good luck either way. If I locate this listing I will get it to you.

Phantomstorm · 04-06-2004, 07:52 PM

The guy doing the repair listed it under the following - now closed auction.

BMW Cluster MID LCD Repair e38 e39 x5 1 Year Item number: 2467746690

I am sure you could still contact him if he interest you. Good luck

Twin Que · 04-06-2004, 09:50 PM

Phantom Storm, Thanks........ Will continue to look on Ebay......

CosmosBlack · 04-13-2004, 02:46 PM

NO...Do not buy the replacement yet! Contact BMWNA customer relations and see if they will arrange for your dealer to replace it for you. You only have to pay an hour's labor.

I got mine replaced for $78

Contact her: Leonora.Vlaovich@bmwna.com

mrogers · 04-13-2004, 04:24 PM

Will BMNA CR do the replacements for E34's as well? My friend has a '95 535i and there's a row missing right in the middle of the display under his speedo/tach.

CosmosBlack · 04-13-2004, 05:58 PM

I doubt they will do E34s. So far, I have only heard deals with E39s.
But you can always try...

Twin Que · 04-13-2004, 08:25 PM

Hey man,
Thanks a bunch, I'm emailing her tonight!!!!
Will let you know the outcome...
r/

CosmosBlack · 04-13-2004, 09:27 PM

I'm thinking the one reason they might not do it in your case is coz' your car is a 97. That makes it 8 years! How many miles you have on her?

When I wrote in for mine, my car was 3 years old with 80k. but it was out of warranty.
Anyway, no harm trying, good luck!

Twin Que · 04-14-2004, 06:29 AM

I have 101K on my 97. It looks pristine like new. II do know 7 years is a lot of time in car years but I gave it a shot anyway. Nothing to lose!!! I played on the fact that I have been a BMW owner for 16 years. Appreciate the advice & got my fingers crossed. Will post the results.

Twin Que · 04-14-2004, 10:56 PM

All,
Got a positive repsonse from BMWNA already. They asked for additional information....... Have provided & now have my fingers crossed. Highly suggest anyone experiencing the same problem, send a note to the email address above.....
r/

CosmosBlack · 04-15-2004, 12:22 AM

Good for you, good mann....hope it works out.
That's the way to go, be nice and hope...instead of getting nasty and demand.

They don't have to do it for you, but they might out of goodwill...

CosmosBlack · 04-26-2004, 02:58 AM

So what's the deal, Twin Que?
Did BMWNA get it all worked out for you?

Twin Que · 04-26-2004, 04:59 AM

As a matter of fact, working on replacing them now. BMWNA offered to pay half for the parts. I have to chunk in the other half & labor. The disclaimer for me was the age of the car. Since that year comes with three different dash clusters, not sure how much it will be..... I am sure labor will hurt $$$s in the long run. Going to weigh the cost benefit before repair.......

CosmosBlack · 04-26-2004, 11:09 AM

I would guess...
an hour's labor plus $200 for the part. (at half price)
Not too bad.