The third brake light on my '06 R50 is not working. Is this a common problem, and if so what are the most likely causes? I love the way that my MINI looks, and drives but, man, am I getting tired of all the annoying carp that goes wrong. :mad2:
It could be a blown fuse or the board that controls the LED lights got wet and shorted it out. Open the hatch and remove the screws to release the light and check the connection. Check with a test light to see if you have power going to the light when the break is pressed first. You have a 8 year old car and S*$T happens.
Yeah, I get that, and I wouldn't mind too much if it was a $3 bulb. But $100+ for the whole freaking thing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am definitely in the wrong business.
Had the lens pop off mine about 5 years ago.... Got a new unit...dead LED's, but good lens from waymotorworks used....took about 10 minutes to make one working unit...was cheaper than new... He might have a used one to sell you.....lots of cars getting parted out.... Pretty easy to change on an S with higher spoiler....think it might be a pain with a cooper.... At one point MOSS MINI (before they stopped selling new mini stuff) had clear lens 3rd brake lights for half the cost of new units....so aftermarket ones are around from at least one maker...
I just gave mine away at the Dragon this year! Didnt know the dealer wants that much $$$ for the part! It is probably corroded LED leads... Happens all the time for something that is supposed to have a 10 year (continuous on) service life.
I always forget to take pictures but you wouldnt be able to tell the difference with this part. Be prepared for a pain in the ass getting the thing out. Dont worry the spoiler wont come off but youll need a buddy to apply a good amt of pressure on the spoiler to get her in there just right so the screwies catch.
Fitted the new third brake light today. As I was taking the electrical connector off the old light, the red lens fell off! What a POS. :mad2: Did BMW attach this with Elmers wood glue? Would expect more from BMW, especially at $100+ (if retail is paid).
That is why a AFTERMARKET unit in some cases can be better.... The lens fell off mine....and I got a second unit with bad LEDs, and attached a new lens unit... Guessing it is a flaw in basic design...but I got 5 years from my orgional...