A much cheaper option than BMW's solution (buy a new switchgear!)
One of the most common faults on modern BMW Motorcycles are switch failures. Up until now the only solution has been to replace the entire unit which can be very expensive and unnecessary considering that it is usually only one or two buttons that fail.
Having stripped and repaired over 50 switch gear units, it is quite clear to me it is a failure of the design. BMW no longer use traditional wires in the Switchgears but instead have opted for a printed circuit style configuration which is quite impressive to look at but unfortunately it hasn't stood the test of time.
The delicate circuits are printed directly to the plastic of the switch body and the buttons themselves are then soldered in place. The circuit is then covered in a resin to protect from corrosion.
The most common fault in this design is a break in the circuit caused by the expansion/contraction of the plastic in the freezing cold and summer heat.
To resolve this issue I use circuit testing tools to find the damaged circuit and in most cases I will run a complete physical wire from the soldered joint at the plug connector right to the button avoiding future issues with the circuit. This is a delicate procedure which can be very time consuming due to the fragile nature of the components.
Once you have decided your switchgear is faulty you will need to remove it from your bike. This may be quite a daunting task but it can be carried out by most anyone with little mechanical knowledge or tools. All you need is a T8 Torx screwdriver for the switchgear and a larger Torx or Allen key for your bar end weight.
Bike specific instructions for removal can be supplied once you have started your order.
Once removed you will then need to post the switchgear to me and I will investigate the fault.
The cost for this service is £45 (including return postage) If for any reason I cannot repair the switch or deem it beyond economical repair then I will charge £5 to send the switch back to you (to cover return postage)
Simply fill in the form below letting me know the year and model of your BMW, Which Switchgear you are sending in and which buttons have stopped working. (A maximum of 3 buttons/circuit repairs are included. If you have more faults please contact me for advice)
I will contact you with confirmation I can undertake your repair, expected turnaround time and an address to send your switch to.
