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charliesmith · Joined: 07 Jul 2001 Posts: 738 Location: Dallas, Texas

Pat,

Any difference if high beam is selected? Do the lights come back on after the headlight switch is cycled off/on? If so, sounds like a headlight switch is defective or a loose switch wiring plug. Verify wiring plug is making positive contact. Possible ignition key switch actuated headlight relay. Does the problem occur after hitting a bump in the road or even while cruising on smooth pavment?

buddiec · Joined: 25 Nov 2000 Posts: 20 Location: va

It sounds like your lm module that controls your lights it is located in the engine compartment where the fuses are located @the drivers side shock tower. It is the long module make sure it is pushed all the way in makeing good contact,if so remove the module a little force may be necessary, if you have any electronic and or solder ing experience these modules are known for cold solder joints and cracks in the solder remover the cover and inspect the joints if any suspected flow some new solder in them if it looks okay get a magnifying glass as they can be tricky to see.

buddiec · Joined: 25 Nov 2000 Posts: 20 Location: va

It sounds like your lkm (light control module) module that controls your lights it is located in the engine compartment where the fuses are located @the drivers side shock tower. It is the long module make sure it is pushed all the way in makeing good contact,if so remove the module a little force may be necessary, if you have any electronic and or solder ing experience these modules are known for cold solder joints and cracks in the solder remover the cover and inspect the joints if any suspected flow some new solder in them if it looks okay get a magnifying glass as they can be tricky to see.

edjack · Joined: 04 Feb 2002 Posts: 3887 Location: San Jose, CA

Might also try replacing the headlight relay.

vallo · Joined: 24 Oct 2001 Posts: 1

I had the same problem with my 530 it turned out to be what is commonly called Dry Joints in the control unit which is situated on the left hand side of the engine compartment,it took my Auto Electrician just 40 minutes to rectify

quote:
Originally posted by Pats525i:
I have a 1990, 525i. Lately, the headlights go out suddenly while driving at night. I switch the LIGHTS 'OFF' and 'ON' again to try to turn them on again, while all along attempting to get off the road and stop at a safe location. Is there a loose wire, switch or relay that could be causing this?