Hello, all.

2017 CS has started doing something weird -- gauges and centre-screen have started dimming and then getting brighter randomly.
Wondering if this is due to possible short? Maybe from after-market MMI CarPlay unit? Issue occurs regardless of whether MMI unit is being accessed.
Thoughts, anyone?

TIA

H

 

Did the issue occur before or after the after-market unit was installed? If after, I would start by disconnecting that and see if the problem improves.

Try playing with the instrumentation brightness dial by the headlight switch in the lower left dash. Does the dial seem to be loose? Could it be jiggling and messing with the brightness when you drive over bumps, etc.?

If you have a BMW/MINI scan tool, you can try erasing/resetting any codes stored in the body control modules, which control things like the sunroof, lighting, etc.

These cars aren't really known for having alternator issues, but it's also worth a look under the hood to make sure the alternator & pulley don't show signs of play or wear

 

Many thanks for these thoughts. The problem is relatively recent -- long after I installed the MMI unit. Since I had that done professionally, I'll try your other suggestions first.

Best,

H

 

I would check the battery as well.

Gary

 

Thanks, Gary

 

Hi Howard,

I want to assure you that this behavior is normal.

If you look at your speedometer gauge there’s a small light sensor below the “0” (zero MPH) that causes this to happen with the brightness and dimming of the main gauges and center display.

Another member on this forum (Mazarin) stopped it from happening by covering the sensor with a small rubber stopper/spacer/foot. 3M makes them for frames and cabinet doors...

There should be an On/Off setting for this feature.

Hope this helps,

Rich

 

That is really interesting! Thanks so much and I will take a look when I get home on Thursday as I'm currently traveling for work.

Thanks, Rich!

H