Electrical woes...advice required

[Fushion_Julz]

Last week my E36 saloon (4dr) 328i SE (RHD) decided to start playing up.
Firstly the dashboard lighting failed...all the pod lights (with the exception of the mile/trip counter and OBC), the heater panel and centre console lights ceased to function, but the exterior lighting worked as normal.
Then, shortly after, the instruments, with the exception of the speedometer stopped working along with the heated rear window and then the indicators, although the hazard flashers still work along with the dash tell-tales and switch flash.

On advice, I removed the glovebox and inspected the earths and all the wiring to the General Body Module (ZKE). I also removed the module, inspected the internals and replaced all the connections. All seemed to be OK, visually, and the earths and live feed appeared to be good.
I also inspected the ignition switch and the indicator stalk wiring and re-plugged the multipin connectors under the steering column.

None of this made any difference but, on replacing the Body Module the windows, sunroof and central locking also ceased functioning.

I ordered a replacement body module (from BMshop in Leicester via EBay) and was assurred it was a) from a 4dr car and b) fully working on removal.
I replaced this last night and the central locking, windows and sunroof now work again...all other functions are as dead as before.
I also disconnected the battery for 15mins to reset all the systems...
to no effect.

I'm now stumped. The car runs and drives, but the indicators not functioning make it hard to get it anywhere on the road, legally.

Has anyone any ideas?
There are no blown fuses and, as far as I can tell, no blown or non-functioning relays.
Battery is brand new, fully charged.

[DanThe]

Sounds like it could be ignition switch, im not sure which but I do know most of the circuits are separated into two here, if you look on the connector plug mounted on the steering column you will see a heavy purple wire, bridge this to live to see if it makes a difference

[Fushion_Julz]

Thanks Dan...

I'll give that a go later tonight...someone has also suggested checking the boot hinge wiring loom, so that is on the list also.

[DanThe]

The boot loom wont make any difference, you could chop through it and everything else not related to the boot would still work

[Fushion_Julz]

Found it!
The problem was a burnt out dimmer switch and a (not obviously) blown fuse