Skip to content

FRM (Light Module) Repair

make an appointment in workshop

Schedule your time to repair in workshop

FRM (Light Module) Repair

The Footwell Module (FRM) in BMW and MINI vehicles is an essential electronic control unit responsible for managing various lighting, window, and communication functions in your car. Located in the passenger-side footwell, the FRM regulates critical systems like headlights, taillights, indicators, parking lights, electric windows, and more. Unfortunately, FRM failures are a widespread issue, often resulting in numerous electrical problems that can compromise the safety and comfort of your vehicle.

Common Causes of FRM Failure

  • Flat or weak battery
  • Jump-starting the vehicle
  • Battery disconnection
  • Programming failures
  • General wear and tear

When the FRM fails, it can trigger a cascade of issues, including malfunctioning lights and windows, which may severely affect your vehicle's performance and safety.

Symptoms of a Failing FRM

  • Headlights do not turn on or off
  • Indicators fail to operate
  • Parking lights remain on
  • Windows do not move up or down
  • Interior lights malfunction
  • Maintenance or service light stays on
  • Loss of communication with the FRM unit

Recognizing these symptoms early can prevent further damage and save you from costly repairs. A faulty FRM is often the result of a flat battery or electrical issues caused by jump-starting or battery disconnection. If your FRM fails, it's recommended to replace the vehicle battery to avoid future problems.

Diagnosing FRM Issues: Proactive Steps

To determine if the FRM is the cause of your car's electrical glitches, an OBD-II scan can help identify error codes such as “SC203 Power window, front left” or “FRM not initialized.” If you notice these errors, it's likely the FRM has failed. For a professional assessment, our mail-in service allows you to send in your FRM for testing. We will diagnose the issue and offer a solution, whether repair or replacement.

How Our BMW and MINI FRM Repair Service Works

We offer a reliable and affordable mail-in FRM repair service for BMW and MINI vehicles. Rather than opting for an expensive replacement part that requires additional coding, our repair service provides a cost-effective, plug-and-play solution. Here's how it works:

  1. Send Us Your FRM: Simply remove the FRM from your vehicle (usually a 15-30 minute process) and mail it to us.
  2. Diagnostics and Repair: We perform a full diagnostic test and provide a detailed report. If repairs are needed, we repair or clone the FRM and run extensive post-repair testing.
  3. Quick Turnaround: Most repairs are completed within 1-2 days, excluding shipping.
  4. No Programming Required: Once the FRM is reinstalled, no additional programming or coding is necessary. The unit will be 100% plug-and-play, restoring full functionality to your vehicle.

Service Highlights:

  • 100% Plug-and-Play: No need for additional programming or coding after the repair.
  • Fast Turnaround: Most repairs are completed within 1-2 days, so you're back on the road quickly.
  • 1-Year Warranty: All repaired FRM units come with a full 1-year warranty.

Common Fault Codes Associated with FRM Failures:

  • 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 / E72C – Window operation errors

Common Part Numbers for FRM Units:

  • 61359390491 / 61359340339 / 61359308371
  • 61359286887 / 61359263803 / 61359240533
  • 61359241008 / 61359224598 / 61359204536
  • And many more.

Testing and Rebuild Process

Before any repairs, we comprehensively test the Footwell Module on specialized rigs to identify any faults. Our repair process includes stripping the unit, replacing faulty components with higher-rated parts, and conducting post-rebuild testing to ensure it meets and exceeds original specifications. This ensures the FRM is durable and fully functional when reinstalled in your vehicle.

FRM Removal Guide

To remove the FRM from your vehicle, locate it in the passenger-side footwell, depending on your car’s model and year. Release the electrical connectors and remove any bolts securing the module. Once removed, it can be sent for diagnostics and repair.

Why Choose Our FRM Repair Service?

Opting for our repair service offers several advantages over purchasing a new replacement unit:

  • Cost-Effective Solution: A new FRM can be costly and requires additional coding. Our service provides a more affordable solution with no extra programming needed.
  • Quality Assurance: We follow strict quality control protocols, replacing faulty components with upgraded parts. Our defect rate is less than 0.49% across all repairs.
  • 1-Year Warranty: We back all our FRM repairs with a comprehensive 1-year warranty.

Conclusion: Addressing FRM Failure Efficiently

When your BMW or MINI’s FRM fails, it can create a range of frustrating electrical issues. But replacing the entire module is not always necessary. Our professional FRM repair service provides a fast, reliable, and cost-effective solution to restore your vehicle's functionality without the need for additional programming or expensive replacements. With a quick turnaround and a 1-year warranty, you can get back on the road with confidence and peace of mind.

      make an appointment in workshop

      Schedule your time

      FRM (Light Module) Repair FAQ

      How does the FRM Repair process work? 
      1. Remove your FRM from your vehicle.
      2. Send us your part. We do not provide a part collection service. 
      3. We will recommend either a replacement or repair service. 
      4. Once we have repaired your part, you can fit it back into the vehicle. All our repair and clone services are 100% plug-and-play, and no additional services will be coding will be required. 
      What is an FRM?

      The Footwell Module (FRM) is the master control module for all exterior lighting functions. All exterior light systems (headlights and side/parklights) are switched on and off via the light switch. Information to turn the lights on or off is supplied from the light switch directly to the FRM.

      Can an FRM be repaired?

      Yes, an FRM can be repaired. First, a diagnostic check must be done on the damaged FRM to assess its repairability. If possible, an FRM can be repaired and restored. Alternatively, a replacement FRM can be installed.

      How much does it cost to fix a BMW FRM?

      An OEM BMW FRM repair can cost up to 1300€ at a BMW dealer. Typically, the part costs around 800€ (depending on your model), and the labor and programming cost around 400€. EJP Motors offers a  99.00€ repair if you choose the "Send modules by post" - All plug and play that doesn't require any additional programming.

      What happens when there is an FRM fault?

      If electrical components in your car, such as the indicators, headlights, electric mirrors, and locking mechanisms aren’t functioning, it’s likely that this is an FRM fault. 

      What functions in the vehicle are controlled by the FRM?

      The FRM controls the following functions in the car: 

      1. The interior lights that are switched on directly by the FRM are also switched off.
      2. The FRM and the JBE monitor the motor speed of the respective power window motors. In this arrangement, the FRM or JBE can respond to overheating or possible blocking of the power window motors in the event of an object being trapped in the windows.
      3. The Footwell Module monitors the door contacts for the anti-theft alarm system. In the event of a change in the status, the FRM sends this information via the K-CAN, thus allowing the USIS to trigger the alarm.
      4. The Footwell Module (FRM) is the master control module for all exterior lighting functions.
      5. On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, the signal for activating the reverse light is obtained by the FRM from the EGS module via PT-CAN. On vehicles equipped with a manual transmission, the FRM obtains the signal from the reverse gear switch.
      6. The Footwell Module (FRM) monitors all of the exterior lighting system with the lights switched on or off, as long as terminal 15 is active.
      7. The control for the Adaptive Headlight is incorporated into the Footwell Module.
      8. The dynamic stability control sends signals relating to the yaw rate and vehicle speed to the FRM for the operation of the Adaptive Headlight Control function.
      9. The FRM in its function as the central control unit for the adaptive headlight sends signals to the stepper motor controllers every 20 ms.
      10. The folding function is controlled by the Footwell Module (FRM). When the mirror folding switch is pressed, the driver's door switch cluster evaluates the request and transfers it to the FRM.
      11. When cruise control is in operation, the brake lights are actuated during automatic braking (legal requirement). To do this, a signal must be sent from the DSC to the footwell module via the PT-CAN.
      12. The Footwell Module supplies input signals for the convenient opening/closing function and monitors the door contacts.

      If the instrument cluster doesn’t have power, then it can be a power issue on the vehicle and not the FRM. 

      What is a stepper motor fault in an FRM?

      Missing or non-plausible BUS signals are stored in the form of fault codes in the FRM. The fault types are stored in the stepper motor controller. The stepper motor controller is accessed via the FRM.

      EJP Motors can repair stepper motor faults within the FRM

      What are the primary functions of the FRM?
      1. Gateway Module for communication between devices connected to the LIN Bus and K-CAN (Outside Mirror & Drivers Switch Cluster).
      2. Evaluator of data from Door Contacts and Door Lock Cylinders
      3. Activator/controller of all Exterior Lights, Adaptive Headlights, 
      4. Controller of Front Power Windows, Electric Load Shut-down
      5. Activation of Power Window Anti-Trap
      6. Stores the Vehicle Order information
      What are common FRM faults?

      Common symptoms during FRM faults include:

      1. Indicators not working 
      2. Hazard lights not working 
      3. Headlights staying on / won’t switch off 
      4. Taillights staying on / won’t switch off 
      5. No main beam Interior lights not working 
      6. Electric windows not working or will open but not always close 
      7. No communications with FRM unit 
      8. AC/heating fan does not work
      Where is the FRM located in a BMW?

      The BMW Footwell Module (FRM) is located on the driver’s side footwell, by the side kick-panel. If your BMW is a left-hand drive, your FRM module will be at the left-hand kick panel as shown in the image. Similarly, if you have a right-hand drive BMW, it will be in the right-hand kick panel. It features a 128 pin, three plug control unit, which houses two 51 pin connectors. Another 26-pin connector is for the connection to the dashboard.

      FRM vs FEM?

      While some may get confused between a FRM and FEM, a FRM (Footwell Module) manages the electrical sensors in the BMW, while the FEM (Front Electronic Module) controls entry and access to the vehicle, and acts as a gateway for other modules.

      Is it possible to remove the FRM?

      Yes. To access the FRM module, you will first have to remove the door sill trim, unscrew the kick panel, and then get to the module. Removing the unit takes about 15 minutes. 

      What do I need to send to test my FRM?

      To have your BMW or MINI FRM module repaired, you only need to send your original FRM unit. 

      How to prevent BMW or MINI FRM failure? 

      FRMs typically fail when the car's battery is removed or when it goes flat. If the battery is old, and the vehicle's battery is flat often, replace the battery. 

      A good quality battery in good condition is one of the best ways to prevent your FRM from failing.

      Can my car be driven if the FRM is removed? 

      Yes, the vehicle can still be driven. There will be no indicators and the headlights will stay on. 

      Is the FRM an important module in BMW and MINI cars? 

      Yes, the FRM forms part of the primary control modules for the systems in BMW E series.

      The primary control modules are: 

      1. Junction Box Electronics Control Module (JBE)
      2. Car Access 2 (CAS2)
      3. Footwell Module (FRM)
      4. Roof Function Center (FZD)