Electrical problems in BMW – simultaneous malfunction of radio, horn, windshield wipers

BMW driver’s question

The horn, multifunction steering wheel, seat heater, rear wiper and radio all stopped working at one point. I checked all the fuses and found no problem there. As far as I know, these components are not interconnected. What could be the reason for such a failure?

The problem was in a 1998 BMW 528 E39 touring, but it can happen in other models as well.

BMW E39 Touring

Response from BM Cars service

• The failure of the horn and multifunction steering wheel can be linked to a lack of communication through a broken airbag tape in the steering wheel.
• The failure of the rear windshield wiper and radio can be linked to the failure of the wiring harness that goes to the tailgate.
• The failure of the seat heater is not related to the aforementioned components, but it could also be a fault related to the electrical system in your car.

Making an accurate diagnosis requires a visit to the service center. You are welcome to visit us at a convenient time.

Example of multifunction steering wheel in BMW | By Hugo venter [CC BY-SA 3.0]

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