How to change your Brake Switch incase anyone is searching

[PaulyV]

Just thought I would post this up incase anyone runs a search for changing the brake switch. I just did it on mine and learned a little from the experience.

The part is available from EuroCarParts.com - part number 460110510 - £4.49. It looks different to the original BMW part but fits just the same. Do this in full daylight as it is dark down there. Also wait until you get your new switch before you change it as its design will clearly help you understand how the old one is held in.

To remove your old switch, unscrew the 3 plastic screws holding on the lower dashboard trim just under the display - pop them safe in the tray infront of the gearstick. Once the trim falls down pullout afew of the electrical leads to give yourself a little room (note where they go although there are only 3 or so).

The brake switch is located at the top of the brake lever, and is held in by a simple moulding on the switch. Unplug the cables to the switch, being careful NOT to break off the clips which hold them in (whoops!). Pulling out the switch itself can be fiddly, however I found it best to push down the brake and fiddle from behind whilst pulling the unit from the other side. Likely the mouldings holding the unit in will break as you pull it out - you need to use a bit of force.

Once out you can throw the old unit away, but you will likely notice that the plunger on the old unit is stuck out further than the one on the new unit. You need to gently pull out the plunger on the new switch until the red collar is able to move forward clear of the clips which will hold the switch in. This in turn allows those clips some give to slide into the hole near the pedal. Pull the collar out as far as possible then back under the dash you go to simply push in the new unit whilst depressing the brake pedal. It should go in very easily.

Letting go of the pedal will then push in both the plunger and the red plastic collar. Sorted.

Plug everything back in and you should be done. Easy when you know how!

best wishes

Pauly