Tips to Detect BMW Adaptive Headlight Malfunction

One of the great innovations that makes driving a BMW worthwhile is the adaptive headlight system. While bright lights are great, lights that adjust to your driving conditions are even better. With the adaptive headlight system, you can have a seamless journey even at night without illumination problems.

While one of the benefits of adaptive headlights is enhanced safety, things could go the other way if this headlight system malfunctions. Detecting your car’s headlight problems early enough can save you from many issues. In this guide, we will provide you with tips on how to easily detect adaptive headlight issues so you can get help.

Common Causes of Adaptive Headlight Issues

Understanding the reasons why your car’s adaptive headlight could malfunction can help you take better care of your car and prevent these issues.

1. Faulty Sensors: The adaptive headlight system has sensors that monitor car speed, steering angle, and yaw rate, and these sensors then send the information to the system which then adjusts the angle and intensity of the headlight per your driving needs. If these sensors go faulty, then the headlights can fail to provide enhanced visibility.
2. Electrical Faults: Another major reason why a car’s adaptive headlight could malfunction is a fault with the electrical system. The adaptive headlight system needs electrical power to perform its function. Electrical issues like blown fuses, blown bulbs, short circuits, and fault wiring can cause the headlight to malfunction.
3. Faulty Control Module
4. Software Problems
5. Worn-Out Bulbs

Signs of Failing Adaptive Headlights

If you are wondering how to tell if your car’s adaptive headlight is malfunctioning; here are some signs to look out for;

• Flickering Headlights: The most obvious sign that there is a problem with a car’s headlight, adaptive or not, is when the bulbs flicker or go on and off intermittently. This could be due to faulty connections or an electrical fault. You may need to see a professional to determine the most effective solution.
• Dashboard Warning Light: The dashboard contains various symbols and signs that light up to indicate when there is a problem with a car’s system, and some BMW models have these lights for the adaptive headlight system. If this light comes on, it means there is a problem with the headlights in your car. In some models, it could be a warning message that requires an OBD II scanner for interpretation.
• Light Does not Obey Command: Another sign that indicates that your car’s adaptive headlight is malfunctioning is when the headlight system does not respond to a command. If you turn your car off and the headlights stay on or you turn the headlights on and they fail to respond, then you can tell that there is an issue with the system.
• Headlight Angle is Off: One of the great features of adaptive headlights is the ability to follow your car’s direction. Once this is off, then you can tell that there is a problem with the system. If you notice that the headlights’ angles are off or they do not follow your car’s steering wheel direction, it means there is an issue. You would need to get professional help to fix this issue.
• Other signs include water in the headlight system, worn-out wiring or electrical system, and unusual sounds from the headlight area (usually accompanied by flickering lights).

Top Auto Repair Facility in Herndon for Your BMW’s Adaptive Headlight

While there are many mechanics who claim to know how to fix cars, only a few are qualified and trained to handle specific issues. Fixing your BMW’s adaptive headlight issue involves getting professional mechanics to handle the repair. This helps you save money on repairs while also getting the best service.

Auto Scandia is the king in the game when it comes to automobile care for European models. We do not cut corners when it comes to servicing or repairing our customers’ vehicles, as we understand that every car that comes our way deserves the best care. This is why we have a team of dedicated and ASE-certified technicians with years of experience and training to handle all our repair and maintenance services.

For many years, we have served car owners in and around Sterling, Reston, Great Falls, Chantilly, Oakton, and Herndon, VA. If you are in any of these locations or close, you should reach out to us and we will give your car the best care.