61 31 310 Replacing brake light switch

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW 525i, 2002 BMW 525i, and 2001 BMW 525i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove trim panel for pedal assembly. See 51 45 185 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING TRIM FOR PEDAL ASSEMBLY

E38 up to 09/98:

Disconnect plug connection.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Plug Connection

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Depress brake pedal as far as possible, using pedal support if necessary.

Fig 2: Depressing Brake Pedal Using Pedal Support

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Pull tappet and sleeve forward completely.
Press together clips and pull back switch.

Installation:

Slowly bring brake pedal into initial position.

Fig 3: Pulling Tappet & Sleeve Forward & Pressing Together Clips

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E38 from 09/98, E39, E52 and E53:

Installation:

On E38 Series RHD cars with ACC from 04/2000 and on all cars with DSC:

A gap of 0.7 mm must be adjusted between brake pedal and brake light switch.

If this gap fails to guarantee problem-free operation, the gap must be reduced to 0.6 mm.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Pull brake light switch (2) in direction of arrow out of brake light switch holder (4).

Installation:

Press brake pedal (3) to floor.
Slide brake light switch (2) as far as it will go into brake light switch holder (4).
Grip brake light switch holder (4), slowly return brake pedal (3) to starting position and pull back to stop.

NOTE: Removing brake light switch holder (4):

Press brake pedal (3).

Press catches together and unclip brake light switch holder (4) from brake pedal (3).

Fig 4: Pulling Brake Light Switch Out Of Brake Light Switch Holder

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