stupid problems

[jakesbimmer]

I have a 98 bmw 328i. I need some help trying to fix it. First of all the odometer, stereo and clock lights stay on even when the key is not in the car and are now starting to kill my battery. Second the control panel says brake circuit failure, check owners manual (which I do not have) but I have ordered a new one of those. My question is this: can the brake circuit be the problem for all of it cause it's weird whenever I press the brakes the lights go out. Any input would be appreiciated, if you have had these problems or maybe you just know how I can fix it I would greatly appreiciate it. Also, here is the last stupid problem, my stereo says PHONE and will not play. Any suggestions? Thanks

[LX-biker]

[quote=jakesbimmer]I have a 98 bmw 328i. I need some help trying to fix it. First of all the odometer, stereo and clock lights stay on even when the key is not in the car and are now starting to kill my battery. Second the control panel says brake circuit failure, check owners manual (which I do not have) but I have ordered a new one of those. My question is this: can the brake circuit be the problem for all of it cause it's weird whenever I press the brakes the lights go out.

Hi, since you asked about any input a will say what to check from my previous jap cars experience:
1. check if brake switch works properly (usually located behind brake pedal)
2. Relays in the relay box or where ever relays located responcible for ON/OFF power circuits.
3. Ignition key lock, try lublicate first...

Good luck!

[jakesbimmer]

Thanks for the info. I think that we have resolved the problem though. But, since there may be someone else with the same issue I thought it might be worth mentioning what was wrong. Ok, after nearly ripping the interior of the car apart I noticed that underneath the center rest where the cupholders are there were a bundle of wires so I took that apart and noticed that there was years of built up junk under there and it was all caked up onto a mini wiring harness. So, I took some time and cleaned everything up (mind you I am not disgusting this car was purchased used) and reassembeld the wires and everything worked perfectly. Apparently all that junk was just shorting out those wires (the big hint was the burning smell coming from it) but cmon who would have thought that the wiring for the dash lights and stereo would be underneath the cup holder... Well, anyway problem solved and now I have a new brake circuit that I dont need.. Go, figure I'll probably just sell it on ebay. Thanks!!