6MT Reverse gear light signal in FRM with engine off?

[relevante]

I was just testing my BMW Advanced Tools / ISTA+ setup on my new-to-me E93 and noticed that in INPA FRM -> Status -> Button, the reverse gear light signal isn't working when I shift (manual transmission) into reverse.

I just got the car, so I don't know if maybe the switch/wiring is bad, but I'm also not sure if it is normal that it doesn't work without the engine running. I've got enough stuff apart under the hood that I can't start the engine, and it's going to be that way for awhile. Can anyone tell me if it's normal or not that the signal isn't active with the engine off, but the ignition on (position 2), so I can add this to the list of stuff I need to get sorted out before spring if necessary?

Thanks.

[amrazM]

power for those sensors on the gearbox comes through the dme bin. its not constant power, it will only work with ignition on. this applies to 6mt

[RocketyMan]

Originally Posted by relevante

I was just testing my BMW Advanced Tools / ISTA+ setup on my new-to-me E93 and noticed that in INPA FRM -> Status -> Button, the reverse gear light signal isn't working when I shift (manual transmission) into reverse.

I just got the car, so I don't know if maybe the switch/wiring is bad, but I'm also not sure if it is normal that it doesn't work without the engine running. I've got enough stuff apart under the hood that I can't start the engine, and it's going to be that way for awhile. Can anyone tell me if it's normal or not that the signal isn't active with the engine off, but the ignition on (position 2), so I can add this to the list of stuff I need to get sorted out before spring if necessary?

Thanks.

Lets get you a wiring diagram so you're not lead astray.

Since this is dealing with your lights, it makes sense that the FRM controls this switch input on the 6MT. Since you said quite a few things are disconnected under the hood, make sure these connectors, like X6011, is connected so that the circuit completes to the FRM. It looks like all the FRM is looking for is a ground for when the switch is activated.

[relevante]

Thanks guys.

Ignition was on during testing. Nothing electrical is disconnected except the alternator which is out waiting for a replacement.

[relevante]

OK, confirmed, it's the switch not working.

Switch contacts are open both in and out of reverse. Jumping the harness connector contacts together with the ignition on turns on the reverse lights, with ignition on, engine not running. Looks like I need a new switch.

Thanks again.

[RocketyMan]

Great! Thanks for reporting back!