BMW Footwell Module
A whole host of problems is caused by the BMW/Mini footwell module (FRM3), a common fault with some BMWs and MINIs.
Various sensors from around the car send signals to the footwell module, which is responsible for controlling many ‘body’ aspects. This includes electric/power windows, AC/heating fans, exterior and interior lights and exterior mirrors.
The operation of these functions is affected when the module becomes faulty. You will see the external lights will remain on all the time and you won’t be able to turn the headlights and taillights off. Conversely, along with main beam and interior lights, the external indicators/turn signals will not work at all. The electric/power windows won’t also function as they should. Across the entire BMW and Mini ranges, failure of this critical FRM unit is universally widespread.
The maintenance or service light will be constantly illuminated when the footwell module is in fault mode. You will find that the module fails to achieve communication when a garage performs diagnostics with scan tools. Fault codes may still be found in other control modules that will signify a fault with the footwell module.
BMW FRM3 Repair
Main dealerships tend to order an expensive brand-new replacement from the manufacturer to rectify this problem, which will then require the car to have coding done at an extra cost. The replacement module will undoubtedly fail due to the inherent fault not being worked-out at factory level, and will only come with a very short one-year warranty.
Footwell Module Repair Service
At Essex Recon we test and rebuild your existing BMW/Mini footwell module. We aim to do this within 1-2 working days. There will be no need for coding once you receive the unit back from us when choose the FRM3 repair option. We also provide an unlimited mile lifetime warranty.
MINI Footwell Module Common Failure symptoms:
- Indicators not working
- Hazard lights not working
- Headlights staying on/won’t switch off
- Taillights staying on/won’t switch off
- No main beam
- Interior lights not working
- Electric windows not working or will open but not always close
- No communications with FRM unit
- AC/heating fan does not work
- Maintenance/service light permanently on dash
BMW MINI Footwell Common fault codes:
Communications to the FRM unit will not be possible, but fault codes will be stored in other electronic control units.
- 497F – Message Error (status, reverse gear, 0x3B0) Diesel Electronics Receiver Footwell Module Transmitter
- A3B4 – Message (lighting condition) Incorrectly, Transmitter FRM Permanent
- A3C1 – Message (FRM foot space module) Incorrectly receiver COMBI, Transmitter FRM – Permanent.
- E72B (window error) and E72C (window error)