'97 BMW 328i Convertible - Buzzing Instrument Cluster

[achinghead]

Hi,

I'm new to the forum and wanted to post since my googling hasn't come up with an answer.

The instrument cluster is making a weird buzzing sound, Sometimes, I can drive around for half an hour and it won't make a sound. Other times, it buzzes on and off during the entire drive. I think it's easier to replicate if the car is driven for a longer period of time.


Do you guys know what might be the cause? It sounds kind of like the buzz the car makes when you leave your headlights on and take the key out of the ignition.


I've uploaded 3 short videos (a minute or less each) to YouTube that demonstrate this weird buzzing:


Buzz (Airbag Light Flickers): https://youtu.be/IsxvydXzofM

Buzz (Brake Light Flickers): https://youtu.be/TFmiSSM9E_o
Buzz (Key Turn): https://youtu.be/0R-GYaknkRs

The brake pad sensor was set off somehow a while back but my shop tells me that my brake pads are okay and don't need replacing at this point. I read that you can connect the two wires of the sensor together to turn the light off though.

I'm hoping someone has seen this problem before and can guide me in the right direction. Thanks!

[boarder2k7]

There is a part inside called the "electromechanical annunciator" which makes the blinker tick noises and a buzzing sound for door open lights on (and I think some other things). It sounds as though yours has gone bad or is involved in a short.

I'd pull the cluster and look at the wiring loom for chafed wires. The annunciator shouldn't trip for any of these things, but it definitely sounds like a malfunctioning annunciator. Especially coupled with the blinking lights, it makes me think electrical gremlins.

[dwonda]

There is a part inside called the "electromechanical annunciator" which makes the blinker tick noises and a buzzing sound for door open lights on (and I think some other things). It sounds as though yours has gone bad or is involved in a short.

I'd pull the cluster and look at the wiring loom for chafed wires. The annunciator shouldn't trip for any of these things, but it definitely sounds like a malfunctioning annunciator. Especially coupled with the blinking lights, it makes me think electrical gremlins.

Old thread I know, but I'm wondering if anyone found the cause of this issue. It recently started in my car. The blinkers often sound distorted now, and sometimes when I brake (weird right?) the instrument cluster will buzz.

[MazerRackham]

Definitely got chafed wires somewhere bro. Good luck.

[dwonda]

Definitely got chafed wires somewhere bro. Good luck.

You think chaffed wires in the trunk loom would cause this?

[MazerRackham]

You think chaffed wires in the trunk loom would cause this?

Its possible. Your best bet would be to start pulling fuses and see if any of them stop the chime. At least you can narrow down where the chafe is.

[dwonda]

Its possible. Your best bet would be to start pulling fuses and see if any of them stop the chime. At least you can narrow down where the chafe is.

Is it possible or are you just saying that?

[MazerRackham]

I think it is very very likely. As much as its chafed wires it could be a bad sensor for the doors. I mean its something electronic and I don't exactly have a multimeter and your car in front of me so I can't tell you exactly what it is.