Tail lights keep blowing

[Mark Blue X5]

Hi all,
My '03 4.4 X5 keeps blowing the right lower tail light -

A new bulb only lasts about 10 minutes before blowing again.

I have tried both the single-contact and double-contact types, cheap bulbs and good quality ones, with no benefit either way.

This morning I got a new error message saying 'check brake linings' closely followed by another error saying 'check Brake lights'... Whats going on?

I have seen many other X5's in Australia with the same issue (or at least with that bulb not working...)
Is this a common issue worldwide? Can anyone help?
Thank you,
Mark

[[UNDFTD]]

It is a very common issue with the X5 it is an issue in the wiring in the tail lights from what i know and hear you have to replace the tail lights

[UCrewX5]

Are you sure the bulbs are in fact blown. A common problem on the X5 is corrosion on the taillight housing. Try cleaning the contacts on both the tail light socket as well as the housing with some sandpaper.

[Zulu95]

Common problem with the bulb carrier/light housing. Not actually blowing the bulbs. Do a search for the quickie repair but sometimes you need a whole new light unit. I had one replaced 2 weeks ago for this very reason.

[Kewl X5]

Agree with Zulu95, I had the same problem and I ended up replacing the bulb carrier and it fixed it and no more problem with blowing out light bulbs.

Originally Posted by Zulu95

Common problem with the bulb carrier/light housing. Not actually blowing the bulbs. Do a search for the quickie repair but sometimes you need a whole new light unit. I had one replaced 2 weeks ago for this very reason.

[China Man]

check brake linings means that your pads are down to the wear sensors, and it's time to replace them

[Verbalkint]

Ditto.

I've had both sides replaced.

[Mark Blue X5]

Thanks for the info Guys,
Glad to hear its not a major wiring thing...
Just so I'm sure I understand - the bulb carrier is the black plastic thing which houses the bulb and locks into the back of the tail light?
Thank you,
Mark

[we350z]

can you transfer the light housings from one tail light assembly to another? I just bought some used clears that are corroded and work intermittently but my stock ambers are fine. I was going to swap out the housings if possible as opposed to cleaning and/or repairing the clears.

[Verbalkint]

Not sure. I had the entire tail lights replaced under warranty.