Why is the BMW gear lever light not working but the gear shifting is normal?
2 Answers
BMW gear lever light not working but the gear shifting being normal may be due to wiring faults or a blown fuse. Here are the specific details: 1. Wiring fault: It is usually a wiring fault with the gear indicator LED, or poor contact between the shift module wires and connectors. Check the wiring. The BMW shift switch consists of an electronic control module and a shift lever. The electronic control module integrates sensors that detect the shift lever position and the shift lock components. The shift switch uses sensors to obtain the shift lever position and forwards the position signal to the transmission control system via the PT-CAN bus. After the transmission control system executes the driver's shifting intention, it feeds back the engaged gear signal to the shift switch via the bus, and the shift switch lights up the corresponding gear indicator. It could be a bus system fault or a switch signal fault, which may also cause the indicator light not to work or light up abnormally. This is more complex and requires a professional technician to determine the fault location based on diagnostic equipment. 2. Blown fuse: Check the power supply fuse. The diode is powered by a 7.5A fuse. Check if the fuse is blown, and if damaged, replace it directly.
I've driven many cars, including BMWs, and encountered situations where the gear shift lever light doesn't illuminate but shifting works normally. This is mostly caused by a burnt-out small bulb or LED for the gear position indicator, especially inconvenient when driving at night. BMW's electrical systems are more complex—it could be a blown fuse, usually located in the engine compartment's fuse box, belonging to the instrument panel lighting circuit. Loose or corroded wiring connectors are also common, sometimes caused by vibrations on bumpy roads leading to poor contact. Control module failure is less likely but shouldn't be ruled out. I recommend first checking and replacing the fuse yourself; if that doesn't work, take it to a professional shop for diagnosis. Don't delay—not being able to see the gear position clearly in the dark increases the risk of misoperation and accidents. Addressing it promptly ensures safer and more confident driving.
