4.8is has suddenly developed a plethora of (possibly) connected issues...any ideas?

[tleisemann]

My 2006 4.8is ran like a champ for the past 2 years since I bought it, until recently. It has developed a plethora of issues, which I believe might be related, and are possibly due to a computer problem. Just wondering if anyone else has experienced a similar problem, and if so, what was the solution. This is what's happening...

Windshield wipers not working...except for when vehicle is first started. If you turn it on and hit the wipers to clear your windshield they work just fine for a few moments, then stop.

Seatbelt warning dings for a minute or so even though my seatbelt is fastened and there is no one else in the car (also nothing on the passenger seat to throw off weight sensor).

Horn not working

Locks occasionally not locking when they should (when you hit 10 mph I think?), but then randomly locking at other times, like after driving 30 minutes at highway speed.

Dome light occasionally coming on at random. Fades on then off. LOL, vehicle possibly haunted by ghost?

[80stech]

That sounds like it could be an ignition switch problem. Maybe do a search on that and see how much matches what's happening to you.

[tleisemann]

Originally Posted by 80stech

That sounds like it could be an ignition switch problem. Maybe do a search on that and see how much matches what's happening to you.

Wow, thanks for the tip!!! I think you may be right. My problems sound VERY similar to what is described in the thread linked below. I tried the the 'visor test', and it did indeed make the airbag light go out and the dome light come on. I don't know that I understand the connection there, but the fact that it did that is enough to investigate further.

https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...ns-solved.html

[80stech]

I think the visor thing pretty much confirms ignition switch.

[Overboost]

The power of forums right there. Well done 80stech

[tleisemann]

So does anyone know why the visor light is a litmus test for the ignition switch?

[80stech]

You would have to check the wiring diagram but It's probably a case of voltage feeding back through a connection because of high resistance or loss of ground or some combination.

[tleisemann]

Originally Posted by 80stech

You would have to check the wiring diagram but It's probably a case of voltage feeding back through a connection because of high resistance or loss of ground or some combination.

That makes sense.

[80stech]

I think to add to the fun, the ignition switch can develop conductive tracking as well as increased resistance as it wears, adding to weirdness of possible things happening.

[Dking078]

Gotta love the sun visor test. lol.