civdiv99, you just gave me an idea on how to fix the same exact problem I am experiencing on my X3. I was actually trying to take out the handle grip (also known as light bar) out of the finisher trim to dissect things further, but drilling the hole and hard wiring will work. I couldn't get the handle grip out (I posted a message about this on the X3 forum). X5 design may be different but it seems the solution is the same, short of replacing the $70 grip. I did not get a light on the dash however...looks like the X5 is more heavily instrumented.

Question - where did you get the rubber grommets?