why does the red light keep blinking when I fully put the top down?

[dwoodsmn]

WE have been having a local garage replace the total hydraulic system on our 2003 Z4 convertible top. In the process they broke the hall effect closed switch. My husband has been trying to find a part number, but the BMW parts people he has been speaking with only come up with 61 31 8 378 940 which in the diagrams show only 1 switch and he thinks it should have 2. Do you know if the part number for the for the top lowered and the top closed switch are the same? He has also looked at a cable harness for folding top part number 543347043906 which appears in the pictures to include both switches. Can you advise us what we should be ordering?

[mikecerasoli]

That sounds like the "Top Down" micro switch or "Top Locked" micro switch is not adjusted properly.

well its just like riding a bike once you get used to it you're alright

[SaNGRiaOnuR]

I think you can help me out

http://www.m3post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1253599

Actually, I was mistaken with my nomenclature.

There are five switches not including the center console switch.

Switch Located in the Trunk
1. Convertible Top Compartment Floor Switch.


These next switches are Hall Effect switches.

Switches Located on the Top Hard Mounts. (must remove top from car to access)
2. Convertible Top Lowered Switch
3. Convertible Top Closed Switch

Switches Located in Locking Mechanism at the front of the top.
4. Scuttle Release Switch (Convertible Top Locking)
5. Scuttle Lock Switch (Convertible Top Locking)


Here is how it all works:

Fully automatic convertible top

The fully automatic convertible top is a folding top fitted as an option.
The soft top is opened and closed hydraulically. When closed, the soft top is locked on the window frame via catches. The catches are driven by means of an electric drive. After opening, the soft top is stored in the convertible top compartment and locked in place by the catches.


Brief description of components

Convertible top module IV (CVM IV)

The convertible top module (CVM IV) controls and monitors the hydraulic and electrical drive and locking components of the folding top. The convertible top module also monitors the convertible top switch, the hydraulic pump and the locking drive, and saves any faults that occur in the fault memory.
The soft-top module is connected to the K bus.

General module

The power windows are controlled during soft-top operation by the general module of the central body electronics (ZKE). The general module therefore receives the information 'Open/close top' or 'Top complete closed' or 'Complete open' across the K bus.

Instrument cluster

The instrument cluster provides the convertible top module IV (CVM IV) via the K bus with the information 'Outside temperature' and ”Vehicle moving” or ”Vehicle stationary” (speed greater than/less than 4 km/h).
Exchange of information is across the K bus.

Hydraulic unit

The hydraulic unit creates the hydraulic pressure required for the top movement. The hydraulic unit consists of an oil reservoir that has an integrated pressure pump. All the hydraulic valves are integrated in the hydraulic unit. The hydraulic system is a closed, self-venting system. Topping up hydraulic fluid is not required.
The pressure pump is driven by a reversible DC motor. To change the direction of movement of the folding top, the direction of rotation of the pump motor is switched.
The pump only operates in the case of top movements. To prevent damage, the hydraulic unit is monitored by an integrated temperature sensor. At a temperature of 105°C, the pump in the hydraulic system is switched off. The soft top can then only be moved by hand.

Hydraulic rotary drives

The soft top is moved in two directions by dual-action hydraulic rotary drives for opening and closing. Here, the racks of the hydraulic cylinder engage in pinions that convert the longitudinal movement of the hydraulic cylinder into a rotary motion. The pinions transfer the rotary motion across the main bearings to the convertible top frame. The hydraulic rotary drives are fitted on the left and right in the main pillar on the main bearings of the convertible top frame.

Soft-top locking mechanism

For the soft-top locking mechanism, there are two catches which are opened or closed by an electric motor.
When closed, the soft top is locked on the window frame (cowl panel) via catches.
After placing in the convertible top compartment, the soft top is also locked in place by the catches.
In the event of an electrical function failing, emergency release is possible by hand.

Convertible top switch and condition indicator

The convertible top switches are fitted in the switching center in the center console. There are separate switches for opening and closing the soft top.
For the display of the active and/or receding state, red and yellow LEDs are fitted beside the convertible top switch:
The red LED lights up while the top is moving. When one of the final positions is reached (top stored in the convertible top compartment or locked on the cowl panel), it is switched off. The LED flashes when the convertible top switch is released while the top is not in one of the two final positions.
The yellow LED lights up when the convertible top switch or the convenience function sends a request for opening while the convertible top compartment floor is not down.

Hall sensors

In order to detect the convertible top position and the two final positions of the locking mechanism, non-contact switches (Hall sensors) are used. The Hall sensors for identification of the convertible top position are fitted on the right-hand main convertible top bearing. The Hall sensors for the cowl panel lock are located on the cowl panel lock in the front convertible top bow strut. The information from the Hall sensors is processed in the convertible top module IV (CVM IV).

Convertible top compartment floor switch

The convertible top compartment switch is a ground-switching contact that generates the signal ”Floor down” when the convertible top compartment floor is located in the lowest position. As long as this information is not present, the soft top cannot be unlocked and opened.
The convertible top compartment floor switch is fitted on the folding mechanism of the convertible top compartment floor.

Hardtop locating points

Contact plates are fitted in each of the two hardtop locating points at the main convertible top bearings. Each contact plate has a contact for power supply of the rear window heating and a contact for hardtop detection.

Main functions

It is possible to open / close the convertible top by means of:

• Convertible top switch (open and close)
• Convenience closing and convenience opening
  via door lock or remote control (coding-data-dependent!)

The following conditions must be met at one time for automatic movement of the top:

1. General module can lower the window without faults
2. Vehicle standstill (v < 4 km/h)
3. No hardtop fitted (only applies to closing)
4. Ignition key position as of terminal R (not in the case of convenience function)
5. No short circuit and no breaks in wiring present
6. Outside temperature has not fallen below limit value

Opening the top with the convertible top switch

Pressing the convertible top switch for ”Open top” opens the soft top according to the following sequence:

1. Windows are lowered (power window activated for 1.5 seconds if one window is detected as closed).
2. Lock hooks are opened. The convertible top is unlocked at the front cowl panel
3. The convertible top is moved backwards
4. Convertible top is stored in the convertible top compartment
5. The locking hooks are closed
6. The top is locked in the center in the convertible top compartment
7. Red LED goes out
8. Windows are raised (2 seconds after locking)

Closing the top with the convertible top switch

Pressing the convertible top switch for ”Close top” closes the soft top according to the following sequence:

1. Windows are lowered (power window activated for 1.5 seconds if one window is detected as closed).
2. The locking hooks are opened and the catch in the center of the top is released.
3. The convertible top is lifted out of convertible top compartment
4. The convertible top is moved forwards
5. Locking hooks are inserted in the cowl panel
6. The locking hooks are closed and the top is locked at the cowl panel
7. Red LED goes out
8. Windows are raised (2 seconds after locking)

NOTE: If the convertible top switch is released during closing and opening, the movement and locking of the folding top is interrupted immediately. As there is no blocking of the drive, only the self-regulation system of the mechanical system and the hydraulic rotary drive have an effect. Pressing the convertible top switch again restarts the stopped movement.

Convenience opening/closing

The driver's door lock opens or closes the top in the following sequence:

1. Insert the ignition key in the driver's door lock
2. Turn the ignition key to the right and hold in this position
   The general module (GM) immediately sends the telegram ”Convenience operation” to the convertible top module IV (CVM IV)
3. The remainder of the sequence is the same as for ”Opening the top with the convertible top switch”, Steps 1 to 7.
4. Turn the ignition key to the left and remove
   NOTE: Closing with the driver's door lock (convenience closing) is no longer possible as of terminal R.

Rear-window defroster (demister)

As long as the soft top is locked and terminal R is on, the convertible top module IV (CVM IV) provides a signal for control of the rear window heating.
Power supply for the rear window heating of the soft top comes from the convertible top wiring harness. If the hardtop is fitted, the power supply for the rear window heating is by means of contact plates on the rear hardtop locating points.

Hardtop detection

If a hardtop is fitted, a contact that closes to ground generates the signal ”V_SPERR” which blocks the ”Close” function.

Storage locking

To release: On completion of an opening procedure, the soft top is stored in the convertible top compartment and locked in place. As interlock, the central locking lug of the cowl panel lock engages in the retainer on the convertible top compartment.
To close: At the start of a closing operation, the cowl panel lock is operated first. Here, the center locking lug of the cowl panel lock is moved in. This disengages the mechanical interlock.

Cowl panel lock

Locking and unlocking the folding top on the cowl panel (upper window frame) takes place electromechanically with the cowl panel lock in the front convertible top bow strut. To this end, there are locking hooks on the left and right of the cowl panel lock.
For closing the folding top, the locking hooks are closed and locked after entering the cowl panel.
The rotary motion of the spindles of the cowl panel lock required for opening and closing is generated by a direct current motor with angle gear. The direct current motor with angle gear is located in the center of the front convertible top bow strut. The rotary motion is transferred via flexible shafts.

Emergency closing / emergency opening

In the event of failure of electrical and/or hydraulic functions, the top can be opened and closed using emergency unlocking/locking systems.
Emergency closing:

1. In the luggage compartment on the left-hand side below the convertible top compartment floor, pull out the plastic ring attached to a Bowden cable as far as it will go.
2. With a 90-degree turn, lock the plastic handle in this position.
   In the hydraulic unit, a short circuit is enabled, making it possible to open and close the folding top by hand.
3. Pull the handle of the Bowden cable in the rear panel of the luggage compartment.
   The interlock in the convertible top compartment is released.
4. Move the top forwards by hand until it reaches the cowl panel.
5. Take the Allen key from the on-board toolkit.
6. Remove the plastic panel from the front roof brace.
7. Insert the Allen key in the uncovered internal hexagon.
8. Lock and unlock the cowl panel lock by turning the Allen key.
9. Take out and replace the Allen key.

Emergency opening:

1. Perform steps 1 and 2 as well as 5 to 7 from 'Emergency closing'.
2. Unlock and open the cowl panel lock by turning the Allen key.
3. Take out and replace the Allen key.
4. Move the top backwards until it reaches the convertible top compartment

[SaNGRiaOnuR]

I think you can help me

http://www.m3post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1253599

Actually, I was mistaken with my nomenclature.

There are five switches not including the center console switch.

Switch Located in the Trunk
1. Convertible Top Compartment Floor Switch.


These next switches are Hall Effect switches.

Switches Located on the Top Hard Mounts. (must remove top from car to access)
2. Convertible Top Lowered Switch
3. Convertible Top Closed Switch

Switches Located in Locking Mechanism at the front of the top.
4. Scuttle Release Switch (Convertible Top Locking)
5. Scuttle Lock Switch (Convertible Top Locking)


Here is how it all works:

Fully automatic convertible top

The fully automatic convertible top is a folding top fitted as an option.
The soft top is opened and closed hydraulically. When closed, the soft top is locked on the window frame via catches. The catches are driven by means of an electric drive. After opening, the soft top is stored in the convertible top compartment and locked in place by the catches.


Brief description of components

Convertible top module IV (CVM IV)

The convertible top module (CVM IV) controls and monitors the hydraulic and electrical drive and locking components of the folding top. The convertible top module also monitors the convertible top switch, the hydraulic pump and the locking drive, and saves any faults that occur in the fault memory.
The soft-top module is connected to the K bus.

General module

The power windows are controlled during soft-top operation by the general module of the central body electronics (ZKE). The general module therefore receives the information 'Open/close top' or 'Top complete closed' or 'Complete open' across the K bus.

Instrument cluster

The instrument cluster provides the convertible top module IV (CVM IV) via the K bus with the information 'Outside temperature' and ”Vehicle moving” or ”Vehicle stationary” (speed greater than/less than 4 km/h).
Exchange of information is across the K bus.

Hydraulic unit

The hydraulic unit creates the hydraulic pressure required for the top movement. The hydraulic unit consists of an oil reservoir that has an integrated pressure pump. All the hydraulic valves are integrated in the hydraulic unit. The hydraulic system is a closed, self-venting system. Topping up hydraulic fluid is not required.
The pressure pump is driven by a reversible DC motor. To change the direction of movement of the folding top, the direction of rotation of the pump motor is switched.
The pump only operates in the case of top movements. To prevent damage, the hydraulic unit is monitored by an integrated temperature sensor. At a temperature of 105°C, the pump in the hydraulic system is switched off. The soft top can then only be moved by hand.

Hydraulic rotary drives

The soft top is moved in two directions by dual-action hydraulic rotary drives for opening and closing. Here, the racks of the hydraulic cylinder engage in pinions that convert the longitudinal movement of the hydraulic cylinder into a rotary motion. The pinions transfer the rotary motion across the main bearings to the convertible top frame. The hydraulic rotary drives are fitted on the left and right in the main pillar on the main bearings of the convertible top frame.

Soft-top locking mechanism

For the soft-top locking mechanism, there are two catches which are opened or closed by an electric motor.
When closed, the soft top is locked on the window frame (cowl panel) via catches.
After placing in the convertible top compartment, the soft top is also locked in place by the catches.
In the event of an electrical function failing, emergency release is possible by hand.

Convertible top switch and condition indicator

The convertible top switches are fitted in the switching center in the center console. There are separate switches for opening and closing the soft top.
For the display of the active and/or receding state, red and yellow LEDs are fitted beside the convertible top switch:
The red LED lights up while the top is moving. When one of the final positions is reached (top stored in the convertible top compartment or locked on the cowl panel), it is switched off. The LED flashes when the convertible top switch is released while the top is not in one of the two final positions.
The yellow LED lights up when the convertible top switch or the convenience function sends a request for opening while the convertible top compartment floor is not down.

Hall sensors

In order to detect the convertible top position and the two final positions of the locking mechanism, non-contact switches (Hall sensors) are used. The Hall sensors for identification of the convertible top position are fitted on the right-hand main convertible top bearing. The Hall sensors for the cowl panel lock are located on the cowl panel lock in the front convertible top bow strut. The information from the Hall sensors is processed in the convertible top module IV (CVM IV).

Convertible top compartment floor switch

The convertible top compartment switch is a ground-switching contact that generates the signal ”Floor down” when the convertible top compartment floor is located in the lowest position. As long as this information is not present, the soft top cannot be unlocked and opened.
The convertible top compartment floor switch is fitted on the folding mechanism of the convertible top compartment floor.

Hardtop locating points

Contact plates are fitted in each of the two hardtop locating points at the main convertible top bearings. Each contact plate has a contact for power supply of the rear window heating and a contact for hardtop detection.

Main functions

It is possible to open / close the convertible top by means of:

• Convertible top switch (open and close)
• Convenience closing and convenience opening
  via door lock or remote control (coding-data-dependent!)

The following conditions must be met at one time for automatic movement of the top:

1. General module can lower the window without faults
2. Vehicle standstill (v < 4 km/h)
3. No hardtop fitted (only applies to closing)
4. Ignition key position as of terminal R (not in the case of convenience function)
5. No short circuit and no breaks in wiring present
6. Outside temperature has not fallen below limit value

Opening the top with the convertible top switch

Pressing the convertible top switch for ”Open top” opens the soft top according to the following sequence:

1. Windows are lowered (power window activated for 1.5 seconds if one window is detected as closed).
2. Lock hooks are opened. The convertible top is unlocked at the front cowl panel
3. The convertible top is moved backwards
4. Convertible top is stored in the convertible top compartment
5. The locking hooks are closed
6. The top is locked in the center in the convertible top compartment
7. Red LED goes out
8. Windows are raised (2 seconds after locking)

Closing the top with the convertible top switch

Pressing the convertible top switch for ”Close top” closes the soft top according to the following sequence:

1. Windows are lowered (power window activated for 1.5 seconds if one window is detected as closed).
2. The locking hooks are opened and the catch in the center of the top is released.
3. The convertible top is lifted out of convertible top compartment
4. The convertible top is moved forwards
5. Locking hooks are inserted in the cowl panel
6. The locking hooks are closed and the top is locked at the cowl panel
7. Red LED goes out
8. Windows are raised (2 seconds after locking)

NOTE: If the convertible top switch is released during closing and opening, the movement and locking of the folding top is interrupted immediately. As there is no blocking of the drive, only the self-regulation system of the mechanical system and the hydraulic rotary drive have an effect. Pressing the convertible top switch again restarts the stopped movement.

Convenience opening/closing

The driver's door lock opens or closes the top in the following sequence:

1. Insert the ignition key in the driver's door lock
2. Turn the ignition key to the right and hold in this position
   The general module (GM) immediately sends the telegram ”Convenience operation” to the convertible top module IV (CVM IV)
3. The remainder of the sequence is the same as for ”Opening the top with the convertible top switch”, Steps 1 to 7.
4. Turn the ignition key to the left and remove
   NOTE: Closing with the driver's door lock (convenience closing) is no longer possible as of terminal R.

Rear-window defroster (demister)

As long as the soft top is locked and terminal R is on, the convertible top module IV (CVM IV) provides a signal for control of the rear window heating.
Power supply for the rear window heating of the soft top comes from the convertible top wiring harness. If the hardtop is fitted, the power supply for the rear window heating is by means of contact plates on the rear hardtop locating points.

Hardtop detection

If a hardtop is fitted, a contact that closes to ground generates the signal ”V_SPERR” which blocks the ”Close” function.

Storage locking

To release: On completion of an opening procedure, the soft top is stored in the convertible top compartment and locked in place. As interlock, the central locking lug of the cowl panel lock engages in the retainer on the convertible top compartment.
To close: At the start of a closing operation, the cowl panel lock is operated first. Here, the center locking lug of the cowl panel lock is moved in. This disengages the mechanical interlock.

Cowl panel lock

Locking and unlocking the folding top on the cowl panel (upper window frame) takes place electromechanically with the cowl panel lock in the front convertible top bow strut. To this end, there are locking hooks on the left and right of the cowl panel lock.
For closing the folding top, the locking hooks are closed and locked after entering the cowl panel.
The rotary motion of the spindles of the cowl panel lock required for opening and closing is generated by a direct current motor with angle gear. The direct current motor with angle gear is located in the center of the front convertible top bow strut. The rotary motion is transferred via flexible shafts.

Emergency closing / emergency opening

In the event of failure of electrical and/or hydraulic functions, the top can be opened and closed using emergency unlocking/locking systems.
Emergency closing:

1. In the luggage compartment on the left-hand side below the convertible top compartment floor, pull out the plastic ring attached to a Bowden cable as far as it will go.
2. With a 90-degree turn, lock the plastic handle in this position.
   In the hydraulic unit, a short circuit is enabled, making it possible to open and close the folding top by hand.
3. Pull the handle of the Bowden cable in the rear panel of the luggage compartment.
   The interlock in the convertible top compartment is released.
4. Move the top forwards by hand until it reaches the cowl panel.
5. Take the Allen key from the on-board toolkit.
6. Remove the plastic panel from the front roof brace.
7. Insert the Allen key in the uncovered internal hexagon.
8. Lock and unlock the cowl panel lock by turning the Allen key.
9. Take out and replace the Allen key.

Emergency opening:

1. Perform steps 1 and 2 as well as 5 to 7 from 'Emergency closing'.
2. Unlock and open the cowl panel lock by turning the Allen key.
3. Take out and replace the Allen key.
4. Move the top backwards until it reaches the convertible top compartment

[lostkiwi]

I have a related problem with my 2006 Z4M Roadster. Suddenly the windows do not open (nor the top unlock nor the top lower) and there are no indication leds when I use the dashboard button to lower the top. When I try to use the key, the windows open, but the top does not unlock or lower. At the same time that this started happening my radio does not switch on and the navigation screen does not pop-up. I also had to reset the electric windows as they had stopped opening when the doors were opened. I think this is all related to the general module Appreciate any thoughts/ideas.

[lostkiwi]

Ok today I had the next level of this problem that some refer to as the possessed car. Many of the module functions started randomly occurring, top up and top down, window up and then down etc. Turned out that my battery was at 10.75 volts - just enough to keep the electrics active, but so low that the modules were misbehaving. The solution I chose was to fully disconnect battery to reset all modules and charge battery before trying again. All seems ok now - but still monitoring to understand what was draining the battery while car was parked and locked with top up. Cheers

[hottubjonZ4]

anyone with a pic of Compartment Storage' deck micro-switch (S231) in it's proper location. mine was wired around when purchased. Trying to put new one in. thanks

[enike00]

Hello,
Does anyone have the solution for this issue? I have the exact same problem with an E85 2006. The softop goes fully down but the red light keeps blinking and the motor sounds like working. Seems like it is not fully locked down or something.
Thank you,

Here is the problem:

I fully put my top down until the red light goes away. I drive off for a couple of minutes and when I do a regular turn or go over a slight bump, the red lights starts to blink. So, I have to make a complete stop, and press the button again to get rid of the blinking light. I drive off for a couple of minutes ,and it starts blinking again..I cant seem to stop it from happening. Any answers please?

[MIKYZZ4]

Push down on the top till you hear a click.
The blinking light, is notifying you, that the top is not locked in place.

[enike00]

Thank you! I ve tried it but unsuccesfull. The motor keeps running. I m thinking it is some kind of a microswitch that does not click.