BMW Z4 E85 - Roof Won’t Open

[z4_lover]

Hi Everyone

I tried to open my roof today and got the dreaded red flashing light. It unlatched fine, but just wouldn’t open.

I first checked the fuses - all seemed fine. Then checked the power to the roof motor (it is now handily housed in the back of the car after a previous fix) again all fine.

I then ran it through my code reader, and the following error code came up:

“12 Control button, short circuit when opening”. Unfortunately this is the only info I have.

Does anyone know if this means the control button on the dash (though I suspect this works fine, given that the roof does unlatch fine). Or is this more than likely the control module for the roof which I believe lives behind the drivers seat?

I’ve read other posts which talk about the wiring in the roof itself, but my error code doesn’t say short circuit to ground which appears to be the common issue linked to dodgy wiring in the roof itself.

Any help is greatly appreciated - would love to get the roof working this summer!

 

[bigwinn]

Where you based?

My experience is that the modules (like all other modules) start to fail

I have a spare you can try

 

[enuff_zed]

Where you based?

My experience is that the modules (like all other modules) start to fail

I have a spare you can try

And not wanting to step on Stuart's toes, but if you say where you are then there's a few of us dotted about who could assist if needed.
But if it's simply trial fitting another module then Stuart got there first.

 

[Number5]

I also have spare roof ECU’s and looms here in Bristol if you’re in this area

 

[z4_lover]

Thanks everyone , that’s very kind of you all. I’m based in London.

Only one thought that it might be the motor. When I tried pressing and holding the roof opening button, the motor got hot - so I wonder if the error code is misleading? :| :wink:

 

[enuff_zed]

Thanks everyone , that’s very kind of you all. I’m based in London.

Only one thought that it might be the motor. When I tried pressing and holding the roof opening button, the motor got hot - so I wonder if the error code is misleading? :| :wink:

Yup, sounds like a seized motor. You may be able to free it off, but if not it’s an easy swap with it in the boot. Don’t lose any of the pins or seals!