The modern BMW uses adaptive headlights because they move the illumination projection to the left or right, based on how a driver operates the vehicle.
This technology ensures more clarity is available during night driving while navigating curves, turns, and corners.
Automated LED headlights can change brightness levels when cars approach with the use of a light camera that senses the approach of another car.
When adaptive headlights from BMW work correctly, they reduce accidents by limiting blind spots.
Since numerous sensors and electrical components are part of this system, it’s not uncommon for malfunctions to happen.
BMW Adaptive Headlight Malfunction
Water is the primary cause of failure for BMW adaptive headlight technologies. This issue can develop for several reasons, ranging from heavy rain to having the vehicle washed. When a problem is detected, drivers see the adaptive malfunction error display on the dashboard.
Several issues can be individually responsible for a BMW adaptive headlight malfunction. It is also possible for multiple problems to contribute to this issue.
Since the parts within this system work with each other, anything that stops working can impact how other components operate.
Here are the most common issues that drivers experience that can cause this malfunction and error message to appear.
1. Stepper Motor Problem
The stepper motor on a BMW is responsible for turning the beam projector. It functions whenever a driver turns a corner or goes around a bend.
This part is found inside the headline, with power routed to it from the control module.
The motor for this feature eventually burns out. An uncommon, but related issue is having the connection between the projector and motor damaged to create a non-functional system.
2. Headlight Seal Failure
BMW equips the access doors around each headlight with a seal. It’s designed to prevent water from entering that area, but it isn’t always successful.
When you drive through a deep puddle or encounter heavy rains, it’s possible for liquid to get into the system.
The moisture from the invading liquid can interfere without the electrical components operating.
You can check to see if the seal is present by opening the access door. If nothing is there, installing a replacement part is a relatively straightforward experience.
3. Adaptive Headlight Module Issue
Condensation can cause problems with the adaptive headlight feature from BMW, even in the winter. The module is found underneath the headlight housing. If it gets wet at all, it could stop working.
Some drivers have reported that dropping their coffee around the component was enough to have the error message appear.
Humidity and condensation can cause moisture to develop inside the assembly if the part has any damage at all. It could even be a small crack in the headlight.
BMW recommends that anyone experiencing an adaptive headlight malfunction take their vehicle to the dealership or to a certified mechanic to have the issue corrected.
How Do I Know if My BMW Has Adaptive Headlights?
The easiest way to determine if your BMW model has adaptive headlights is to park the vehicle while it is still running.
As you turn the steering wheel, watch the orientation of the low beam headlights. They will move if your vehicle is equipped with this feature. If not, it is not capable of it.
Another method is to check the VIN to see if the car offers adaptive LED headlights, regular adaptive lights, or Dynamic Xenos.
The adaptive headlights cab be disabled by manually turning to the “On” position. If you want the feature to stay activated, turn the switch to “Auto” instead.
How to Repair a BMW Adaptive Headlight Malfunction
The cost to repair a BMW adaptive headlight malfunction can be $1,500 or more when the issue occurs. That price doesn’t include the diagnostic cost. Since multiple components could be involved, the issue can rack up a significant expense at the dealership.
When you see the warning appear on your dash, there could be other symptoms that the vehicle displays while driving.
- The low beam lights could be stuck off-center.
- The adaptive headlights turn left or right, but not in the other direction.
- The warning message or control malfunction display and warning light appear and disappear.
- You see a green light that flashes next to the headlight switch.
The BMW adaptive headlight module is underneath the headlight housing. It’s usually the culprit for this problem.
Water shortens the module, or a cracked headlight or loose door allows moisture to enter the system.
Since the module is at the lowest point of the headlight assembly, water eventually makes its way there.
That triggers the malfunction error message or warning on your dashboard. You’ll receive a fault code that stores in the AHL module.
You must remove the front bumper and the headlight to replace the malfunctioning module. Additional software is needed to code the new product to the vehicle.
If you don’t see a warning light appear, but the adaptive headlights are not working, check to see if the switch is in the “On” position. Turning it back to “Auto” should restore functionality.
In rare instances, the switch could be stuck in the “On” position, causing the feature to stay disengaged.
What If the Stepper Motor Is the Problem?
The motors that turn a BMW’s low and high beam projector can sometimes break, causing the warning or malfunction error to appear. This part is found inside the headlight.
When this problem develops, the cause could be a problem with the link to the projector or a failure of the motor itself.
It is possible to repair this component without replacing the entire headlight, but the assembly will need to get removed before access to the part is available.
What About the Headlight Seal?
When you open the access door to the headlight assembly on a BMW, you’ll notice a seal on the other side. It must be seated correctly to prevent a malfunction from occurring. If it is not, water can get into the unit to cause the entire unit to be replaced.
It is a good practice to inspect the back of the headlight cover periodically to look at the seal’s condition. If you notice condensation inside the cover, remove the headlight and stepper motor controller, allowing each to dry for at least 24 hours before installing it again.
The seal should provide an airtight solution. If it does not, a replacement is necessary.
How to Diagnose a BMW Adaptive Headlight Malfunction
The best way to determine why you’re receiving the adaptive headlight malfunction notification or warning is to read the AHL module’s fault codes.
You’ll need a BMW scanner that reads this code. Using a generic OBD2 scanner will not provide this information.
I use the AUTOPHIX Enhanced BMW Full Systems Diagnostic Scan Tool for situations like this malfunction.
It’s capable of reading the diagnostic trouble codes from each major system, providing 22 CBS functions while delivering the essential information you need.
It can erase trouble codes that cause emission issues, turn off the check engine light, and read data streams.
A DTC library lets you find related code definitions to determine if you can repair the issue, or if the vehicle needs to go to the dealership or a certified mechanic.
Once you have the diagnostic scanner, plug it into the port found underneath your dashboard. It’s in the side frame net to the driver’s side door.
Turn on the ignition to your BMW, but don’t start the engine. Next, turn on the scanner and choose your vehicle’s chassis. From there, choose the controls menu.
Select the Light Module 2 option from the adaptive headlight module. Once you enter that component, you can read or clear the codes while performing tests, activations, or adaptations.
You have the option of disabling the adaptive functions to have the headlights operate without this feature.
You’ll need to manually perform headlamp adjustments to ensure they’re pointed at the correct angle for driving.
If you remove the module without changing the coding, you’ll see an adaptive headlight error appear on the dashboard.
What to Expect with a BMW Adaptive Headlight Malfunction?
When a BMW adaptive headlight malfunction occurs, the warning lights and notifications can cause concern. Even a significant jolt from a speed bump could cause unwanted symptoms. With the right tools and support, this issue can be quickly remedied by an experienced mechanic or the dealership.
I’ve always been handy around a vehicle. I can thank my stepfather for that. Some of my least-favorite memories involve changing the brakes of our Nissan Sentra during a cold winter night with a propane heater being the only thing offering warmth.
I’d never been so cold in my life – or so bored with the job he was doing.
“You’ll thank me for this one day,” he always said when the work was over. “These are life skills that will help you keep your car on the road.”
After I saved enough to get my first BMW, I felt like I’d finally made it. When the adaptive headlights stopped working, my first reaction was frustration. But then, I began to understand those cold winter repairs. It made sense to the work because the savings was significant.
In my case, I had a failed gasket. I removed the headlight and motor, let them dry for a couple of days during a long weekend, and replaced the offending component. Once everything was connected once again, it worked like a charm.
If you’re unsure of how to complete a repair, I strongly recommend working with a certified mechanic or your local dealership.
It’s too easy to have something go wrong, especially if you’re stuck removing the bumper. In return, you’ll get to enjoy this fantastic safety feature once again.