Re: On board computer display problem??? (archive)

Your display bulb(s) are burned out, a fairly common occurrence.
There`s a detailed explanation on replacing them in the BMW Enthusiast`s Companion (the yellow book).
1)Remove radio
2)Pop out the hazard/rear defroster switches
3)Remove 2 #1 phillips screws above and inside the openings for the switches.
4)Remove 2 phillips screws underneath the center panel with a stubby screwdriver. I found this to be easier after removing the center console.
5)The panel should be loose; you only need to pull it out a little. You don`t have to disconnect the heater controls.
6)Remove the glove compartment and the panel to the left of the glove compartment.
7)From behind, loosen the two left side phillips screws holding the OBC to the back of the panel.
8)With the panel pulled out, reach in from the side and remove the right side screws, using needle nose pliers.
9)Now, the OBC can be pushed into the panel enough to access the bulb holder on the right side; it`s white. Grab it with some pliers and slide it out.
The bulb holder has a little circuit board with two 5 volt bulbs, wired in series. One burned out bulb will cause it to stop working. I bought the $22 replacement bulb holder; it lasted 3 months. Then I took the two remaining good bulbs and soldered them in one holder; it lasted 3 weeks. I researched and found some sources for bulbs. They average $0.65 each. Right now, I have bulbs in my OBC from Radio Shack. They have lasted 3 years, 5 months, and still going. They were in a package of 3 for $1.49, if I remember correctly. I have the Radio Shack part # here somewhere, if you want to go the cheap route.
John
88 ///M3 Cinnabar
I got in my 1988 M3 and when I looked at the computer there was no display. Back ground lights were there and if you push some combinations of buttons such as timer and reset the red reset light will light up but no display. If anyone has any ideas with what might be wrong I would be much relieved. TIA John.

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