Most likely because in manual setting the headlights are not adaptive. They are only adaptive in the automatic setting.

Yeah I found that out. Does anyone have any idea on how I can repair this?

Wait just a minute... Let's clarify.
*** EDITED below to CORRECT *** see below posts ***

Variable Light Distribution - This is the option described on page one of this thread where diff parts of the road can be illuminated by the headlights based on conditions.
Variable Light Distribution lighting is not approved nor allowed in the US. The feature is DEcoded - you will see that listed as DECODED in the VIN lookup tool that shows your equipped options.

The headlights moving L-R around turns - is - Adaptive.


*** Editing complete ***

My error says my "Adaptive Headlights" have an error. I am taking it to the shop tomorrow so they can look into it.

Heatmizr - I believe your understanding is incorrect. What we have with our headlights that turn left and right with the steering is adaptive headlights as BMW defines it:

From BMW:
Adaptive Headlights.
The Adaptive Headlights cast their beam in the direction of the curve and ensure better visibility and more safety during night drives on winding roads.

Sensors measure speed, steering angle and yaw (degree of rotation around the vertical axis). Based on this information, small electric motors turn the headlights left or right so the beam falls on the road ahead, guiding you into the bend.

Headlight beam throw control (a model-specific function) means the front headlights are raised at high speeds and lowered at slower speeds, which results in a wider beam for inner-city driving.

The adaptive headlight range control (a model-specific function) takes into consideration the vertical curve of the road. The headlight beam throw control is lowered when driving over a knoll and raised when the vehicle is in a dip.

The result: every single curve is illuminated and the oncoming traffic isn’t dazzled unnecessarily. Driving at night is even safer, particularly when visibility is poor.

Adaptive Headlights are only active when the vehicle is pulling away. They stay switched off when the BMW is in reverse and when the steering wheel is turned to the left while the vehicle is stationary (e.g. when pulling out of a parallel parking space) to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic.

Adaptive Headlights are complemented by cornering lights. These are automatically activated at speeds of up to 70 km/h and improve visibility in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle, which is useful when driving along hairpin bends, turning or parking.

I stand corrected! Thanks for clearing it up. I should have verified first; I will amend the above post.

From Vin Decoder: (on my e70 2012 X5 50 M-Sport)

8S4 DECODING VARIABLE LIGHT DISTRIBUTIO
- is the option I was trying to describe, that is mentioned on page 1 of this thread. NOTE how this says "DECODING". Smart tech that is not allowed in US! duh

524 ADAPTIVE HEADLIGHTS
- is as you describe above.


My confusion began while researching the e70 prior to purchase, where I found some BMW materials that describe the awesomeness of Variable Light Distribution and I assumed the option was called Adaptive headlights on US cars, and was disappointed to find my vehicle did not have this, nor was it even allowed in the US due to outdated legislation LIMITING the amount of light output from headlights, without regard to smart tech to control said lighting. So built in the US with advanced tech that we don't allow, only to be DeCoded for sale in the US. GRRR.

I know Audi (and others?) have asked that the rules be updated to allow the first options on US cars. WRITE YOUR CONGRESSMAN to support getting this archaic rule changed!

Also support Craft Beer!