The flicker every five seconds or so is consistent with a bad connection or bulb out (wrong resistance in the circuit) and the LCM checking the circuit at that frequency. It can often be seen when you hook up LED trailer lights, and the resistance isn't as the truck expects.

Any small draw like that can prevent the vehicle from going to sleep, and thus cause a much higher draw than the issue itself, since all the systems are still up and running.

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2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White

Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue