How To Reset Brake Light On Bmw

Preparation Ensure the vehicle is parked on level ground with the engine off and the ignition key removed. Confirm the parking brake is engaged. You will be working with the instrument cluster and on-board computer controls, so having the key fob handy is essential.

Locate the BC (Board Computer) Button The BC button is usually found on the end of the turn-signal stalk or on the dash near the instrument cluster. This button cycles through trip computer functions and also serves to initiate reset procedures.

Resetting via Instrument Cluster (Common for E-Series BMWs) Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to position I (accessory power). Press and hold the BC button. While still holding BC, turn the key to position II (ignition on, engine still off). Continue holding BC until the display shows “RESET PADS” or “RESET BRAKE PADS” or a similar message indicating the brake pad service reminder. Release BC; the display will flash or count down, and then confirm “RESET OK” or “RESET DONE.” Turn the key back to 0 and remove it. On the next start, the brake service reminder light should be extinguished.

Resetting via iDrive (For Models Equipped with iDrive) Press the iDrive controller to access the main menu. Navigate to “Vehicle Info” (or “My Vehicle” depending on model year), then select “Vehicle Status” or “Service Requirements.” Within that menu, choose “Reset” or “Brake Pads” (exact wording varies). Confirm the reset when prompted—usually by selecting “Yes” or “Start Reset.” The system may display a progress bar or countdown. Once complete, iDrive will confirm that brake pad service has been reset. Exit menus and turn off the ignition to finalize.

Alternative Method (Brake Fluid Service Light on Newer Models) If you are resetting the brake fluid service indicator rather than brake pads, ensure the brake fluid reservoir has been refilled to the correct level and the cap is properly tightened before starting. With the engine off, press the Start/Stop button without depressing the brake pedal to enter accessory mode (iDrive should power on). Press and hold BC until the trip computer screen changes to a menu. Use the BC button to scroll until “Service” or “Vehicle Check” appears. Release BC, then press and hold it again until you see “RESET OPEN ITEMS” or “RESET BRAKE SERVICE.” Confirm by holding BC until the countdown completes. When the display shows confirmation, turn off the ignition.

Verification Start the engine and drive a short distance. Verify that the brake pad wear indicator (if applicable) and brake fluid/service warning lights remain off. If the warning reappears immediately, double‐check that the correct items (pads or fluid) were serviced, and repeat the reset process. If the light still fails to reset, there may be a sensor issue requiring diagnosis with a BMW diagnostic tool or by a qualified technician.

Tips and Troubleshooting If the dashboard never displays a reset prompt, try releasing BC once the screen first changes, then pressing it again rapidly until the reset menu appears. Some models require cycling through menus multiple times. If your vehicle has a programmable digital dash (e.g., digital instrument cluster), consult the owner’s manual for model-specific button combinations. Always inspect brake pads for proper thickness (minimum manufacturer spec is typically 3 mm–4 mm) and ensure brake fluid meets BMW specifications (DOT 4 or higher) before resetting any service indicator.