Front blinker problems...
 

My front passenger-side blinker is working about 1/3 the times I use my X5...when it fails, the dash tells me "Check side lights". But if I set my alarm, the failing light flashes twice. Somedays it works, somedays it doesn't

I was under the impression that light bulbs either work or don't...it's not something that dies a slow death.

I don't want to go through the hassle of replacing the bulb if it's a bigger problem...anyone have any experience with this issue?

well, i had a similar issue, but my front light was either
dim or not lit at all. when it wasn't lit, i never got an
error. as for bulbs workig or not working, i would think
that would depend on just how bad the filament blew.
it's possible, i think, that the filament could be dangling
and on occasion, it rests properly and at other times it
does not. i say, go ahead and replace the bulb. start
there and if it continues to happen, then worry about
what it "might" be. there's an excellent write-up on
how to replace the turn signal bulbs. good luck.

You are right (and I knew this is probably what I should do). I read the write up (which is excellent), so after the gym I'll pick up the bulb and start there. I wish they made it easier to change...

Thanks for replying.

Before changing the bulb check the contacts on the socket. Like others I had this problem of blinkers not working from time to time. When that happened I had the "Check side lights" message. I sanded the socket contacts and I have not had any problem since. That was a year ago.

if ur gonna go thru the trouble of checking the sockets on the
headlights, u might as well replace the bulbs. removing the
headlight, is the hard part. replacing the bulb is just a for
peace of mind.

On his model removing the headlights to access the buld and socket is a matter of 5/10mns. There is a lot of chance that there is nothing wrong with the bulb. This is a know issue with earlier models (2000/2003).

is his headlight assembly any different than my '03?
i still think that removing the headlight is the hard part.
all i was saying is, if ur gonna go thru w/ removing the
headlight and the bulb already, u might as well replace
the old bulbs w/ new one's. like i said, it's just for some
peace of mind.

on my x5 is was the plug you need to replace the shocket usurely the wire that come whit the plug cost about $ 23.00 @ dealer, i replaced it and the problem is gone.some time is the light buld but i'm sure it is the shocket.:thumbup:

Some months ago I followed the FAQ to replace what I thought was a burned out front turn signal bulb. the bulb's filament was not broken, but the electrical contacts on the bulb were singed looking. I replaced the bulb and days later it was dead again. Obviously something wrong with the socket...
Is the probelm related to water getting in? Or is it more likely to just be faulty? Someone posted about sanding down some contacts. What does that achieve?
So, should I get the dealer or a shop to replace the socket, or do something myself?
TIA

2002 X5 3.0i w/ Manual, Sport pkg, Xenon, Nav...

Whenever I replace tail/indicator/repeater bulbs I always smear some vaseline(petroleum jelly)around the silver side and bottom of the bulb,this ensures a decent electrical connection and stops any corrosion on the connections.
I know its an old tip,but my old dad was correct some of the time.
Don't do this to headlamp bulbs they get a bit hot!!