BMW E39 Auto Headlights Retrofit

For the 2002 model year (from 9/01/2001 production), BMWs came standard with automatic headlights. 5 components need to be installed or replaced to bring this functionality to older BMWs. This video details the steps that must be completed in order to retrofit automatic headlights. The car used in this video is February, 2000 production BMW E39 M5.
LCM Coding and Programming @ 3:09: • BMW LCM Coding, E39 Ta...
Parts:
Automatic Headlight Switch: 61316909779
Automatic Headlight Switch Bezel: 61316909780
Rain Light Sensor: 61356923954
LCM (Light Control Module) IIIB
RLS (Rain Light Sensor) Prism Kit: automotivedesig...
RLS (Rain Light Sensor) Pad: automotivedesig...
E39Source DIY Article: e39source.com/...
My Email: [e-mail]
E39Source website: www.e39source.com
Help support E39Source by donating: www.e39source.c...

[@footnfan]

So glad the Ryan does these things so I can walk outside, look at my 197K 2000 M5, and say, nope, nice mod, great video, not doing that! :)

[@E39Source]

Hahaha

[@slam44]

You’re right. I’ve recommended help to him, but then no one will show us that these things are way too much work.

[@TopSecretVid]

I don’t even own a BMW but I watch your videos... A total example of dedication!! Next level.

[@E39Source]

Thanks for the support!

[@thomass647]

Soo glad I've got a 2003 haha. You're a life saver for the M5 community.

[@ARPerez]

I used to work for a glass shop and we received training every year on how to do things like this. The explanation of all the steps makes it seem more daunting that it actually is. Once you get it down this can be done in 15min or so. With that said, the other option would be to take this to a local windshield repair shop and throw them a $20 plus the price of the part to replace the prism for you, they do this on the daily and should not be a big deal. I plan on doing this on my E38 on my channel and will be documenting everything as well. Great content!

[@E39Source]

Thanks for the comment! I actually called a few local glass shops and they seemed totally confused by my objective. They kept telling me I had to replace the windshield to change the prism, and that it could not reinstalled separately. So, I did it myself! It worked fine even with a bubble or two, though I have since gotten a new 2002+ windshield installed with the correct prism from factory.

[@ARPerez]

@@E39Source liability that's all. They're just trying to cover their asses and not risk cracking your windshield in the process. Best bet is talk to one of the guys on the side and have him help you when he's off.... or just wait until you change the windshield like you said! Most E39's need a new one by now :)

[@hovnojede010101]

My man got the M gloves too. I love mine!

[@CAPTIVMEDIA]

Thank you Ryan, for another comprehensive DIY with nothing left out.

[@Markjw25]

Excellent work! Glad I have a 2003 model. And yes one of these days I'll try to get a video of mine uploaded to share once I finally get the thing sorted out lol. Also you should do a 10 year ownership video or something of the sort, for any future owners who are looking into long term ownership of a E39 M5. Also For anyone looking to do this retrofit like Ryan's car. Get the dash light switch an bezels USED! These parts are STOOOOOOPID expensive new!

[@E39Source]

I searched for used ones for 4 months and couldn't find anything that were guaranteed not broken!

[@lipecardozo]

The best E39 channel of the KZbin!! Best video quality, best explanation.. congratulations! But, where can I found this Apple Watch band? ahahaha! I really like this!

[@E39Source]

Thank you very much! The Apple Watch band is sold by a company called Dialed. dialedwatchco.com/collections/watch-bands/products/motorsport-nato-band-with-black-hardware-compatible-apple-watch-1-4

[@Capt_n]

Hey Ryan, thanks for the DIY. I did it myself today on my E38 and it works perfectly well, despite the fact that I haven't been able to match the sensorplate perfectly with the windshield. Thus it seems like I got air bubbles (or whatever it is) between the windsheild and the sensorplate too. But I tested both functions and as long as it works I won't replace the sensor pad. It's pretty nice too that you do not have to change or add the wiring to make this thing work. I have to admit though, putting the rear view mirror cover back together seemed to be the most difficult part :D. Thanks from Germany.

[@E39Source]

Very cool, thank you for sharing! You have one of the few E38s in this world with automatic headlights.

[@stepseldinski]

Riding a 03 unfortunately non M 5 series. And I don't use this automatic light function. Because we have lots of tunnels here and I think it is not good for the high voltage light modules to be switched on and off all the time. Also the xenons will thank you to not do so. Anyway I drive only with light no matter the time. Cool channel by the way. Really like your way of doing things just right. Thumbs up!

[@santidesmond94]

So as a bmw tech, I've done a few windshields on the newer bmw's. The repair instructions say to install the gel pad on the sensor first, in this case the prisim. If you give this a seccond attempt before replacing the windshield try putting it on the prisim first! Hope it helps

[@E39Source]

I have since replaced the windshield with a 2002+ Genuine glass, so I have a perfect sensor. If I ever install another, I will try that! Thanks the advice :)

[@tracer4770]

Wow you have the paradise of the E39. congratulations,

[@stormanimal83]

Thanks Ryan, That helped me a lot. I got a new windshield few weeks ago and this is the retrofit job I started some time ago. they selled the wrong windshield with rain sensor (not RLS). now I exactly know what to do. thanks from Germany

[@crherniman]

Great...one more thing I need to get for my 2000 M5 Haha. Also I found the switch with bezel on Ebay for $25 free s&h. There are a few left on there.

[@MarkoZutic]

u can use optical UV glue, that gets cured with uv light, or with sunlight. it is less prone to air bubbles but it can get messy as it will drain down the glass. it's stuff that is used on new generation of phones to get them to be air tight so between lcd and glass. also newer generation of screen protectors come with uv liquid glue to help you paste it without air bubbles and such

[@epicon6]

I have been waiting for this! And i’ve been too lazy to google it :)

[@ravisriram6746]

My favorite 5-series.

[@Capt_n]

The bezel is availabe here in Germany too, but it costs 270€. Seems like it is one of those parts, that haven't been produced in large quantities. I would recommend to get one from a E39 which has automatic headlights and is going to be dismantled.

[@muhammedmpower6673]

amazing work bro❤❤❤❤

[@INNO222]

Great job Ryan!!!

[@BreakStuffClub]

Mines a 11/1999 car but I'm fine with it. It's an Anthracite car with full leather black heritage interior, sure a 2003 would be nice but I have a rare desirable spec car and I love it.

[@ukaszmarciniak3612]

hello I have a question I have a problem in the BMW e39, the light switch is on for me all the time.

[@metinquliyev666]

Average M5 fans be like: İ KNOW EVERYTHİNG ABOUT MY E39 M5 Good video bro you are really pro about this car

[@brantyb7011]

im realizing i missed a gold era of retro fits and parts availability... LOL.

[@gb8641]

Excellent video!

[@pfannkuchengesicht42]

to use the LCM4 you just have to rewire the motors and sensor lines directly to the LCM. The wire diagrams are easy to find, there's even an android app

[@E39Source]

I didn't think a wiring change was necessary? I was under the impression that it could be coded to work.

[@FVBmovies]

How about using some DIY low pressure vacuum device as some use for curing resin epoxy, after attaching new sensor, and heating the glue from the outside with heat gun if bubbles aren't moving?

[@E39Source]

That could work, but I think it'd be easier to carefully roll the prism on.

[@FVBmovies]

@@E39Source Since you're replying, thank you for very explanatory and insightful videos. Love the content. Was thinking about brake bleeder vacuum pump and small drilled and sealed metal pot with weatherstrip tape around pot's edges touching glass if careful rolling fails. Generic brake bleeder and vacuum pump at Harbor Freight costs 25$, so might be worth a try for some.

[@arifrosli2574]

Great video. I'm trying to do the same thing to my car. but can I use RLS 6955550 instead?

[@E39Source]

That appears to be a newer version of the same part, I would say it would work.

[@Scandicguy81]

Love your license plate 😂

[@gusto8069]

Good video, I just bought a 2002 530i and the switch unit is just hanging out of the dash by 2 wires without the knob. This video really helps with a visual, also I wasn't aware of the auto option until now. I very well may have ordered the wrong part if I didn't see this first thanks. I plan on fixing it soon but I'm seeing mostly black units out there on ebay but mine is purple like in your video, is purple the auto model?

[@gusto8069]

Thanks for buying the last one! haha

[@E39Source]

Yes, the purple is the automatic switch. Black is not automatic.

[@tatan5890]

Awesome video. Will this process/parts work in a 97’ 528i? Just interested in the retrofit auto lights....thanks in advance

[@E39Source]

Do you have xenons and auto wipers? If so, it should be the same deal. If not, you can retrofit those features at the same time but you'll need to do more than what I do in this video.

[@yurizdrak8209]

Good informative video.

[@qssaber]

Hey Ryan, it might be the lack of primer why your DIY failed. the 3M Primer 94 0.66ml is easily used by breaking a capsule (there is a red/brownish dot on the primer) By applying enough pressure on that point, the small amount of primer will leak through the foam part and you will be able to apply it easily. I hope you retry with the second adhesive pad.

[@E39Source]

There IS a dot that says crush here! Ugh what an idiot I can be. The problem with re-trying will be removing the fresh pad that I just put on and then preparing the prism again.

[@qssaber]

@@E39Source If it makes you feel any better, I think the primer is only effective in long term, I just did mine today with the primer and no real difference. I have a slanted air bubble-line on mine too.

[@paulsachs9983]

Hey when you guys do your prep before the primer, to remove all oils, use electrical contact cleaner (I prefer the wd-40 brand in my lab at work) Nothing I know of does a better job t removing all surface contaminants

[@Crownme32]

Bro what’s the part number for the auto headlight switch ,to make sure I purchase the correct one

[@E39Source]

Please see the video description.

[@BirdogEd]

Great presentation! 👍 I think this mod would also work on the e38. 🤔 😎🇩🇪🚙

[@Capt_n]

It does work exactly like it does on a E39. There is only one difference, and that's the way how you change the lightswitch.

[@YouWillNeverGetDis]

Hey I've got a question, I'm in progress of doing this retrofit to my Feb 2000 540 and the car never came with rain sensing wipers. I've done all the wiring for it however I know it needs coding to work, is the procedure/coding for activating the rain sensor done with this software too? Do you know what needs to be changed? I believe the ZCS code needs to change but not sure which part or number or which programs I should be looking for, any help or tips is appreciated, thanks!

[@E39Source]

I have never researched this before, since all M5s came with the automatic wipers and I spend most of my time around M5s. With the new stalk and RLS installed... it might just work. I don't recall seeing any boxes to check for manual or automatic wipers in the ZCS or other modules. I would do more research on 'E39 automatic headlight retrofit' to see if anyone has this documented.

[@YouWillNeverGetDis]

@@E39Source Interesting! I appreciate the fast reply, that's good to know that it might just work when it's back together without coding, I should get it all buttoned up in the next couple days and I'll give it a shot without coding anything and take it from there! Thanks :) I'll leave a post here with results for incase anyone else is in the same situation. Love the videos btw! The retrofits are awesome! I'm looking forward to any more that are to come!

[@E39Source]

@@YouWillNeverGetDis Amazingly, I got an email 10 minutes after I replied to this from a guy who is doing the same retrofit on his E38 7 series. His did not work immediately and he hasn't yet been able to figure it out. I suspect that you may need to replace the GMIII with a HIGH version? Do you have high or low OBC? Please keep me posted, and thank you for your kind words!

[@YouWillNeverGetDis]

@@E39Source Wow what are the odds lol Yeah theres not many write ups on the retrofit to e39 coding. The main ones that pop up during searching is for the e38 and e46's. The e38s never came with auto headlights from factory so that could be why it's a trickier one for them. 1 guy that had success on his e38 said he brought the car to his indy which read the ZCS code from the GM and sent it out to Autologic who then sent back an updated ZCS to write to the car adding the option. I'm pretty sure the RLS still had to be initialized after that. I'm hoping the e39s are different but theres a good chance the code will still have to be added in somewhere. I should have the car up and running by the end of the day. I'll keep you updated. I havent replaced my lcm yet since I'm waiting on the software and cable currently but I'll see if anything works as is.

[@YouWillNeverGetDis]

Also forgot to mention, I have the high obc

[@sergiy26]

Hi Ryan! I'm so excited about all your videos, I think that you are the best e39 expert in the whole world! I'm looking for titanium line trims. Could you please tell me if you have some for sale? Thanks in advance

[@E39Source]

Thank you very much! No Titan line in stock, but it is still available new, though expensive.

[@sergiy26]

@@E39Source Understood. What about Bruyere club?

[@E39Source]

@@sergiy26 I have several nice pieces, but not a complete set.

[@sergiy26]

@@E39Source That's great. Maybe we could discuss it via email

[@E39Source]

@@sergiy26 Please email me at [e-mail]

[@MickD464]

What's the swith in the same panel but at the right of the steering wheel? Looks like lights too

[@E39Source]

Fog light switch!

[@theamerican7080]

Thanks Ryan!

[@RM61827]

I have an '02 e39 touring and I don't think that my car has auto high-beams. Are you sure it was standard starting in '02? Thanks!

[@E39Source]

This automatic feature is not for high beams, but for automatically turning the headlights on when it gets dark outside. Automatic high beams may not even be a new standard feature on a 2021 5-series.

[@sohailjaned]

Hi Ryan, Need some help please. Followed all your instructions got a lcm3b coded using pa soft, switched the light switch with an auto one and installed the rls sensor. Now in automatic wiper mode the wipers just swipe across continuously! Any ideas would be appreciated. Thanks

[@E39Source]

The problem is probably with your RLS or prism/pad. Do you have any bubbles caught in the prism/pad? The RLS sensors are fairly delicate now too, so I would recommend swapping it out for another one that may work better.

[@sohailjaned]

@@E39Source Yes there are 2 bubbles which probably explains it. Will try and get another pad and see if that sorts it out. Appreciate it as always. 👍🏼

[@Jps1995m3]

Hey, could you update the link (it’s not working ) for the prism to go on the windshield ?

[@E39Source]

The vendor removed the product from the website, but does still have some left in stock. You can call them and he'll sell you one.

[@Jps1995m3]

Yeah, I had a feeling that happened. Who is the company and what’s the part number?

[@E39Source]

@@Jps1995m3 Please refer to this writeup: www.e39source.com/blog/automatic-headlight-retrofit/

[@Exoskeleton1]

great work as always i have the rest function but i have trouble fitting climate panel with max function the ac fan doesn’t work did you coded it out?

[@E39Source]

The MAX AC button doesn't work on the newer panel? It worked plug and play for mine.. no coding.

[@Exoskeleton1]

E39Source do you know what it takes to upgrade to max panel in my model year 98? thanks in advance

[@E39Source]

@@Exoskeleton1 I would assume that it would be the same as mine, mostly plug and play. Are you sure the panel you got works?

[@Exoskeleton1]

E39Source yes mine works every button even the rest function works i have tried so many panels with max non of them turns the blower

[@E39Source]

@@Exoskeleton1 Interesting, maybe something else changed? Does the REST panel allow the fan to work?

[@Falko1992]

Can I install an LCM that has more km than my instrument cluster? I want to keep the km in my instrument cluster.

[@E39Source]

LCM mileage needs to be coded for your specific car.

[@Aronsson007]

What colour is that? looks nice

[@E39Source]

Silverstone Metallic, the original 1999-2001 press color for the E39 M5.

[@BimmerFix]

Is it possible to do both retrofits, this one and rear fog lights?

[@E39Source]

Yes! I have done both on my car.

[@BimmerFix]

@@E39Source Do you happen to have a part number of a photo for the light switch? I can either find a switch with auto lights or rear fogs. Can't find a switch with both on it.

[@E39Source]

@@BimmerFix This is the part for the automatic headlights: bit.ly/3iJEEXB. For the rear fog lights, please use this DIY: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5Oqd6Koar6abpo

[@BimmerFix]

@@E39Source Yes I saw that video, that's why the question. The switches in these 2 videos are different. Also the coverings for the switches are different. Coverings with auto headlights don't have the fog option www.ebay.com/itm/114777188569 Those with fog option don't have auto option www.ebay.com.au/itm/323708193549 This is why I'm wondering how you can use both?

[@E39Source]

@@BimmerFix They are different switches. The automatic headlight retrofit replaces the headlight with (left) and bezel. The rear fog light retrofit replaces the fog light switch (right) and bezel. The headlights and fog lights are on different switches.

[@rafaelmolina2644]

Hi Ryan , is it possible to retrofit the auto headlight function if ur car is not equipped with rain sensor? I have a 98 528i / thanks Rafael

[@E39Source]

Possible? Yes. Thought much more involved, and I do not know the required steps.

[@rafaelmolina2644]

Thanks for ur quick reply. I have done rear fog lights retrofit using ur video. I should send u a video of my 528i with all retrofits done to it ( front sport seat, rear privacy shades, m- sport single stage steering wheel, shadow trim , halo and led tail lights ) among other things . I love your channel , keep it up!!!!!

[@E39Source]

@@rafaelmolina2644 Very cool! I would love to see it. If you ever want to share your car with the E39Source audience, please see www.e39source.com/participate.

[@Falko1992]

I completely retrofitted the rain light sensor on me. Unfortunately, at ignition level 2, the low beam always comes on for approx. 10 seconds. Why is that?

[@E39Source]

Even in bright light? Check LCM for codes?

[@Falko1992]

@@E39Source The light always comes on for 10 seconds when it starts, even if it is bright. I checked the LCM.

[@E39Source]

@@Falko1992 All I can think of is a bad sensor then.

[@coreyisbell8393]

Are the halo lights supposed to be on when the switch is in the "Auto" position.... or are they only supposed to be on when parking lights, headlights or both are on? If not, is there a way to get them to be on when in auto mode?

[@E39Source]

They are not supposed to be on in auto mode. In auto mode, the LCM monitors the ambient light and, when dark enough, turns on the halos with the low beams. If you want the halos to function as DRLs, you'll need an LCM4 with some special programming to enable this.

[@coreyisbell8393]

@@E39Source thanks Ryan

[@larrycampbell2500]

Hi Ryan can you send me the website for the prism. Ty

[@E39Source]

Those links are in the video description.

[@wheresfuninthat]

Hey, are those halogen headlights in the video? Id like to retrofit facelift headlights, and would like to know if only option i have if to upgrade to FL-halogens.

[@E39Source]

These are xenons, all M5s came standard with them. You could upgrade to either.

[@lockergnome90087]

Nice DIY. I'm the opposide in my E39, E46s, and E91 that i leave the wipers on their least sensitive. Means they never wipe a screen that isn't wet enough. I'm not sure how different it is, but I tend to go with less wiping. Wipers going in the dry makes me sad.

[@boonamai8926]

Automatic wipers are useless anyways...

[@saidhasanalizade4319]

Good job 👍

[@jacobduncil4702]

Hello e39Source! I am having the cluster in my 2003 540i rebuilt because the pixels are shot. The trim for the cluster is broke as well. The pegs that slide into the dash have broke off and the tabs at the bottom for the philips head screws are broken. I need to find a new trim (preferably before I get my cluster back lol). I can not seem to find one, does anyone know where I can find one?

[@E39Source]

Another batch is coming into the United States soon (late May) so I would place an order and be patient! bit.ly/3bgAuSJ

[@jacobduncil4702]

@@E39Source awesome thank you!!

[@YS-tb7cg]

Hi Ryan, just did the retrofit. Lights still stay on and wipers won’t stop… What could be wrong?

[@E39Source]

It sounds to me that either the prism installation is wrong (too many air bubbles, not in the right spot) or you have a bad RLS. Any error codes in the LCM?

[@YS-tb7cg]

E39Source Not so much air bubbles and no error codes from the LCM. I’m also suspecting that the prism was installed incorrectly. How can I correctly position the prism? Thank you.

[@E39Source]

@@YS-tb7cg That's a great question. Maybe compare it against another E39 with the prism? Look from the outside in and see if the whole thing is centered in the 'window'?

[@beaglewso]

Not sure if you've tried this, but if you haven't coded it in to tell the car it has automatic wipers, it will just treat them like normal. My E46 is the opposite of this, I had to code my RLS out because the previous windshield shop installed the prism poorly, so it doesn't sense water. I just have them running like normal interval wipers now until I order a new pad.

[@5StillFree]

Hello. Then headlight switch is in position "A",and then you start the car,halos is on and read leds? And what happend if in mode "A" you will turn on fog lights? Thanks.

[@E39Source]

I just have LCM IIIAs in stock right now. My position A do you mean 11:00 automatic mode? Halos are off during the day. When it gets dark, the halos and headlights come on. If you turn on the fog lights, regardless of time of day, all the lights will come on.

[@5StillFree]

@@E39Source So if headlight switch in in Automatic mode,halos and led in back lights don't work,correct? With out automatic mode can you use just halos + foglights? Maybe you know how to programm,then switcher is in position "A", only halos and led in back lights will work? Sorry for my english,hope you can udnerstand what i mean.

[@E39Source]

@@5StillFree Correct. It sounds like you want DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) for the halos and rear LEDs. The LCM 4 can be programmed for this.

[@5StillFree]

@@E39Source Yes you understand me,but LCM 4 don't work with xenon automatic level,correct? Or whitch LCM4 i need? any lcm 4? or LCM4 ohne. man. LWR? Im my country i need to use or headlights or halos + foglight like DRL(if i don't have DRLs from factory)

[@E39Source]

@@5StillFree I could not get it to work, but you can if you can figure out how to program it!

[@y3v1k]

Is it possible to convert auto-levelling headlights to manual control?!

[@E39Source]

Good question... but why would you want to do that?

[@y3v1k]

Because im a control freak 😆 no seriously, auto-levelling kills adjusters so much faster, so having manual control would be good.

[@E39Source]

@@y3v1k It's road vibrations and time on the plastic that kills the adjuster, I'd say.

[@DoubleJThe]

Ugh, took mine out of my 03 and the bezel exploded (or was already broken) when I pulled the knob off. There's one in Lithuania for $300....I gotta find a junkyard.

[@E39Source]

I have visited countless yards with hopes to find one and never have. If you're looking for one that has not bee glued back together, you're going to want to buy new.

[@DoubleJThe]

@@E39Source Do you know if the pre-facelift bezel will fit? I don't use my auto headlights at all, rarely even drive the car at night.

[@E39Source]

@@DoubleJThe Yes, a pre-facelift switch bezel will pop right in, though it will not allow for the switch to turn to the 11:00 automatic mode. This would break the bezel. To avoid this, I’d want to change the switch to the pre 2002 version too.

[@DoubleJThe]

@@E39Source Good idea, and that's a way cheap switch, I'll probably go that route.

[@innergame05]

Why not get an aftermarket auto headlight kit and mate it to the new auto switch?

[@E39Source]

Why not use factory components for a clean and reliable installation?

[@innergame05]

@@E39Source The video seemed awfully in depth. there are DIYers out there that use a simple on/off adjustable time delay breadboard connected to a photo sensor spliced into the car's switch. I haven't seen anyone do it here though. I have an e39 540i and e53 x5 I've been wanting to convert. I'll share if I make time to do it. www.ebay.com/itm/DC-5V-12V-24V-Infinite-Cycle-Delay-Timing-Timer-Relay-Switch-ON-OFF-Loop-Module/122015186599?var=421018199292

[@E39Source]

@@innergame05 Interesting, I have not heard of that! Good luck and let me know if you do it. What I did wasn't too ad, but I'm used to work like this.

[@crherniman]

Also, do you have an Alcantara headliner?

[@E39Source]

I have 5 of them! Please email me [e-mail]

[@ajhieb]

I've been wondering about the feasibility of doing this with my '01 E38. With the number of parts they have in common with the E39, I'm starting to think it might actually work. (Assuming I can get an autoglass place to order the correct prism for me.

[@E39Source]

You should definitely be able to get auto lights on your E38! Do you have auto wipers already? If so, you should be able to just use the same RLS and prism that I used in this video. An LCM 3B from an E39 SHOULD work just fine, once coded. Are the headlight switches/bezels the same? I think so? All of these parts might just work perfectly.

[@ajhieb]

@@E39Source The switch/bezel seem to be the same, but I'm going to verify on realoem if they actually use the same part number as the E39. Coding the LCM is going to be the tricky part for me. I actually have a laptop with all of the necessary software, but It (and the E38) have been sitting idle for quite a while so I'm hoping I can get the laptop to boot. The funny thing is a guy I work with that has a 98 E38 as his daily driver was asking about this exact retrofit because he has a bad habit of leaving his lights on. But my E38 is an '01 Sporty Shorty in Imola Red, and I'm trying to get her restored back to her former glory. Mechanically she's great but the body and interior need some work. But it's still a blast to drive. Thanks for all of the great content you've put out. I've found several of your videos to be very useful.

[@E39Source]

@@ajhieb Let me know if I can be of any assistance to either one of you guys! Good luck!

[@fluffyty19]

E39Source I am going to try this with my ‘98 E38. Just found a switch and bezel on eBay for $35. There is a recent X5 at a junkyard near me so I’m going to go there this weekend and get an LCM and the sensor/prism and any wiring associated with the install. If I run into any issues I’ll update you!

[@E39Source]

@@fluffyty19 Good luck please let me know how it goes!

[@NotGrimman]

Would this work on an E36 too?

[@E39Source]

This would not unfortunately, the E36 does not use a light control module.

[@chrisr4815]

I have a 02-07-2002 build date that doesn't have auto headlights. Your build date information is not accurate.

[@E39Source]

What country was your E39 originally sold in?

[@ГамлетГостон]

Halala kez axpers

[@amilamadhusanka3245]

anyone had problem with dimmer stuck at max brightness after the lcm swap?

[@muhammedmpower6673]

i need you help to buy single vanos 2.8 pls

[@E39Source]

I would recommend checking Ebay for used engines.

[@muhammedmpower6673]

i waiting you thanx for replay

[@van10nistelrooy]

Done all those mods, but missing the best option of all, leather dash.

[@E39Source]

The complete leather interior adds a lot of luxury to the car, but it becomes a serious maintenance item. Too much sun, moisture, finger oils etc damage it. The vinyl is practical and robust!

[@van10nistelrooy]

@@E39Source Ahhh thats a good point. Here in PNW its pretty tame so its a non issue. Alcantara headliner & the leather dash totally changed the car for me, worth every bit of work to do it.

[@garrettgiuffre7298]

Can I work for you? I would love to learn and mentor you

[@E39Source]

Email me [e-mail]

[@Berkut1986]

Hi, Ryan. I really liked your video but I urgently need your help: my car is of 04/1999 production from Germany and I haven’t changed the factory installed prelci headlights and taillights. I have already bought the switch, RLS and LCM III B module. The automatic light sensor, will it work on my car with prelci headlights and taillights or I have to change them for LCI ones?

[@E39Source]

Hello, the RLS will work with any headlight and tail light combination.

[@Berkut1986]

@@E39Source sorry but what about the module itself? LCM III B 6 915 919? As far as I know, it supports LCI headlights and taillights not PRELCI ones, headlights without angel eyes and taillights with bulbs.

[@E39Source]

@@Berkut1986 That is a good question, I have never tried to use a facelift LCM with pre-facelift lights. According to RealOEM, newer part # LCMs are "exchangeable retrospectively", meaning that it should work. This may require coding though.

[@cthawes]

That primer you probably meant to crack the glass inside it by squeezing it with your fingers

[@jdmcarboy64]

My 01 540i6 has that climate control system. Is it anything special?

[@E39Source]

It's the 2001+ panel that features the MAX AC button instead of REST (but still works for REST when the conditions are right).

[@hilledegroot]

@@E39Source took me a while to read that the max ac button is also rest heat. Great option imho. Also when auto lamps are set to on, the lamps will always go on lowbeam when the foglamps are on.

[@E39Source]

@@hilledegroot Yes, MAX AC during normal operation but once the temperature drops below 59F, and the engine is warm, it will function in the residual heat mode. I did notice that about the fog lights. I always turn them on and off manually as I need them, but I know many people leave the fog switch in the on position, which is a habit they'll have to break with auto lights.

[@hilledegroot]

@@E39Source i prefer to drive with lamps always on. So auto lamps on and foglamps on. Presto :)

[@slam44]

Ryan, Now you’ve gone too far. You need to seek professional help:)

[@apodski]

Send me all the standard or manual stuff you rip out to install these automatic butt scratching fangly bits. These bits are value engineered biodegrading eltro-plastik googas, that you don't need and will inevitably be a PIA. It's where bmw lost it's way. The only good one they have had since 2000 is the heads up display, that is a great feature for any car.

[@apodski]

The feature that cars need to have retrofitted is a dimming windscreen to turn down the retina searing, atomic arms race of oem headlights.

[@edsmith4821]

Hahaha AMG

[@Kamozzi]

HAHA AMG :)

[@BuzzOffFacker]

posible to put auto lights into a 2001 (produced in 2000) E46 330Ci? Thanks and love the content. learned how to pull my airbag from you

[@E39Source]

Yes, the process would be about the same. RLS, prism, LCM, and new switch.

[@BuzzOffFacker]

@@E39Source thanks! I also need a new windshield, any idea where best to source that?

[@E39Source]

@@BuzzOffFacker Windshields are sensitive. Apparently, they're easy to install incorrectly and then you get a noise at higher speeds that is horribly annoying. I would find a reputable glass place that can follow factory specifications for installation, and preferably has experience with E39 glass. As far as brands, Pilkington, Saint-Gobain Sekurit or PPG seem to be quality. I would recommend an OEM rubber seal for sure.

[@BuzzOffFacker]

@@E39Source copy that, I'm trying to finally tie this whole car together and make it look how it's supposed to from factory

[@lipecardozo]

Yes! It is! I did this in my 2000 323Ci. I have a video in my channel.

[@vt6857]

I recently did an upgrade to my 2008 BMW 528i headlights from halogens to much brighter LEDs. I really like my new LED headlights. Does your car headlights use regular halogens or Xenon lights?

[@E39Source]

All E39 M5s use xenon headlights :)

[@vt6857]

That’s very nice that E39 M5s come with Xenon headlights. I wish mine came with Xenon headlights especially for 2008 5 series since yours was 2002. I wouldn’t have had to upgrade to LEDs if my 528i came with Xenon. But I’m glad I did the upgrade from Halogen to LEDs for my headlights. It was really worth it. Take care😊

[@E39Source]

@@vt6857 The M cars are generally several years 'ahead' of the standard vehicles when it comes to high-tech stuff like headlights. My M5 is actually a 2000, xenon lights were standard on the M5 in 2000. But you're taken care of now!

[@vt6857]

Hi there. Good to know. Thanks for the info😊

[@jacobduncil4702]

the plastic clear lens that in-closes the cluster. Can those be purchased separately? Mine is cracked.

[@E39Source]

Not that I know of, unfortunately.

[@jacobduncil4702]

@@E39Source TO THE JUNK YARDS!! Lol

[@jacobduncil4702]

@@E39Source do you think the lens from other e39’s would work? Like from a older 528i. The instrument cluster’s screens are a little different but im wondering if len’s from other e39’s would fit.

[@E39Source]

@@jacobduncil4702 I would expect any E39 lens to work