What are the Symptoms of a Faulty BMW FRM Module

Common symptoms caused by a faulty BMW FRM, also known as a footwell module along with what can be done for a repair. Unfortunately on my car, I did have a learning experience from this issue, I was scanning my car with ISTA while the battery died and this is what caused the module the brick up. For this I am using my 2010 BMW 335d e90 as an example. #BMWFRM #BMWE90 #BMW335d

Foxwell NT530 Scanner: https://www.foxwelldiag.com/products/foxwell-nt530?variant=40625470537894&ref=5
DeoxIt D100L Kit: https://caig.com/product/deoxit-deoxit-gold-kit-k-dg100l-2db/

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Tools/Supplies Needed:
-OBD2 scanner
-10mm socket with ratchet
-contact cleaner/protectant

Procedure:
If you are scanning the car using ISTA and the FRM is shown in red, this means there is no signal between this module and the scanner. The module heading would be shown in red.

If you are using an OBD2 reader such as this Foxwell scanner I have, a faulty module will show fault codes.

The severity of errors between cars will vary. Beyond bricking up from having the battery die during a scan, other causes which can make the module malfunction would be corrosion on the electrical connectors, voltage spikes or generic voltage issues.

Faults that I experienced which I believe was every single possible problem my door locks not working using the key fob, no signal lights, no fog lights, no high beams, no reverse lights, no license plate lights, no interior lights, no gauge cluster lights, windows not working, no power mirrors, faults codes on the gauge cluster, active headlights not working, driver’s door error saying it’s open, climate control not working correctly, and auto fold mirrors not working. My car was undrivable due to the severity of the errors.

I do however have a friend which a faulty FRM as well however it only shows a few faults such as one headlight and taillight working on a start-up and some FRM fault codes.

As for repairs, this can be something such as cleaning the connectors or more complicated as having the module replaced.

If corrosion is found on the module connections or as preventative maintenance, I would highly recommend using Deoxit D100L which comes in a kit. This kit includes various cleaning tools if there is any corrosion. If there isn’t any corrosion, this solution will protect the connection and prevent that from happening.

Some OBD2 scanners may be able to reset the module, this can be done by yourself or have a shop do this. I tried having this done by a shop, however they were unsuccessful.

Instead I removed the module, then had someone reprogram it completely. This only took about 20 minutes and the VIN is required. You may be lucky to find someone local, other times you’ll have to send it in. Various services can be found online. Equipment can be purchased to do such a procedure, however it’s around $1000 for the proper tools from what I could find.

If the module is damaged, then a replacement is needed. New or used options are available. A used module can be reprogrammed to your car and is most like a much cheaper option than purchasing a new one. Some cars also had interchangeable modules between different series modules which provide more options for replacements.

When scanning the car, always make sure the battery is fully charged. If a scan or programming is done for longer periods, then hook up a trickle charger so the battery doesn’t become depleted.

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