indicators and main beam switch

[affiliate13]

recently bought a 94' 520i all in great order bar a tiny fault.

when headlamps are on if i attempt to use the indicators this can turn on main beam. also the main beam doesnt stay on but i can flash with it.

i have had three e34s before but this is the 1st electrical fault ive had. has anyone any ideas where i should start to repair this?

[Jay 535i]

I have a similar problem. Don't know what it's about. I suspect I need a new column stalk to solve it.

[stargazer_61]

I have the same problem, but only when signalling right-hand turns. I was thinking about taking off the switch & cleaning it. I am sure that after 11.5 years there is a bit of dust in there.

[Jay 535i]

For me it's only left turns.

[joshua43214]

I know this sounds really silly, but check that all the rear bulbs are both installed properly and are the correct bulb. The most bizaar lighting problems can occur from incorrect bulbs or improper installation.

[Alexlind123]

use emery cloth or fine sandpaper on the contacts, they could be corroded.

[genphreak]

use emery cloth or fine sandpaper on the contacts, they could be corroded.

yep I had the same thing on my e28 535- same stalk. Replaced the (perfect looking stalk) and it solved the problem. If it comes apart and you can clean those contacts I'm sure it'd do the same thing. This fix is common enough to be on Bruno's site...

[affiliate13]

indicator stalk seems the best place to start then. i have an old 518i (91) ill try the stalk out of it, if cleaning the existing one doesnt do the trick.

some kids broke into the 520i there recently so i have to replace the steering column cover and check why the ignition barrel doesnt click back by itself when the engine starts, so probably best to do it all at once.