BMW 7 Series Door Lock System Failure: Help Needed

Hey there! I have some experience working on BMWs, and funny enough, I had a similar issue with my 2015 BMW 5-Series. The central locking system completely failed one day, and the 6-Series I owned before never had this problem. My mechanic found it was a faulty wiring connection near the door control module. They had to trace and repair some corroded cables, which was causing the system to malfunction. The fix cost me 95 Euro and solved the problem completely. Before you head to a workshop, could you share: Does this happen with both the key fob and manual key? Are you getting any specific error messages on the dashboard? Have you noticed any other electrical issues? This info would help me give you more specific advice based on my experience with these cars.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I'm having this exact issue with both the key fob and manual key. No other electrical problems that I've noticed, but I'm getting a "Central Locking System Malfunction" message on the dash. My car's been pretty reliable up until now at 32057 KM, and it was fine during the last service. Really hoping it's just a wiring issue like yours was, rather than having to replace the whole module. Did your mechanic mention how common this problem is with BMWs?

Hey again! Glad to help further with your BMW issue. When I had my 5-Series, the mechanic actually told me these central locking problems are fairly common in BMWs from that generation. Based on that dashboard message you're getting, it sounds exactly like what I dealt with. What's interesting is that my car also showed no other electrical issues before the locking system failed. My mechanic mentioned that moisture sometimes gets into the wiring harness and causes corrosion over time, even with relatively low mileage like yours. My car had around 45000 KM when it happened. Since you're experiencing it with both the key fob and manual key just like I did, I'm pretty confident it's a similar wiring issue. In my case, they first suspected the control module needed replacement (which would've cost a fortune!), but thankfully it turned out to be just those corroded wires. Quick tip from my experience, make sure they thoroughly check all the door wiring harnesses, not just the obvious spots. My mechanic initially missed a corroded section that was hidden behind some trim. Have you noticed if it's worse in wet weather? That was actually a telltale sign in my case.

Thanks so much for the detailed response! That's really helpful to know about the moisture issue, come to think of it, the problem did start after some rainy days. I feel much more confident now knowing this is a common issue and probably just needs some wiring work rather than a whole new module. I'll definitely mention checking all the door wiring harnesses when I take it in. My relief is huge knowing your repair was relatively simple and affordable! I've already called a BMW specialist workshop and booked it in for tomorrow. I'll make sure they do a thorough check of all the wiring like you suggested, especially those hidden spots behind the trim. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, it's exactly what I needed to hear. Will keep you posted on what they find!