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Stock Problems/IssuesDiscussions related to warranty related issues and repairs, or other problems with the OEM parts and software for MINI Cooper (R50), Cabrio (R52), and Cooper S (R53) MINIs.
Ok, so like an idiot I left my top down overnight about 2 weeks ago on my 2008 Cooper convertible. Afterwards, I began having issues with almost every electrical accessory on my car (windows not working, sunroof not opening, lights staying on, wipers not functioning, etc.). Well, believe it or not, THIS bonehead had done this a time or two before, had the same electrical issues, but everything began working after a few days of airing out. Not this time. So, I was told that the "footwell controlmodule" controls ALL of those things and is a common problem in Minis. I was told by my local dealership that the cost of replacement was around $1500, as the new module has to be programmed to my specific car after install. So, after researching other options, I found several places online saying they could fix your current FRM for a fraction of the cost. So, I decided to give it a shot, as I couldn't see spending another $1500 on my car. So, I removed it and sent it off for repair. Well, the guy messaged me today to inform me that I had accidentally sent him the BCM (bodycontrolmodule) instead of the FRM, and that the BCM doesn't control the windows, lights, etc. So, he's returning it to me and I need to locate, remove, and ship him the FRM. My questions are these: 1. The BCM was located in the passenger's side footwell, close to the hood latch. Where the HELL is the FRM? On the driver's side in roughly the same place? 2. If the FRM controls the windows, lights, etc., what DOES the BCM do or control? 3. Has anyone else experienced problems with their FRM and, if so, did you try having it repaired instead of replaced? Did it fix your similar issues? Thanks in advance!
The module you pulled is the "general control module" and it is the one that controls all the lights, windows, etc.
The term "footwell module" came to be because of it's location. In later Minis, the footwell module really only controls the lights and everything else related to body electronics (wipers, windows, etc.) is controlled by the junction box electronics.
So long story short, the guy you sent your module to has no idea what he's talking about.
