Frequently Asked Questions
- How does the FRM Repair process work?
- Remove your FRM from your vehicle.
- Mail us your part. We do not provide a part collection service.
- We will recommend either a replacement or repair service.
- Once we have repaired your part, you can fit it back into the vehicle. All our repair and clone services are 100% plug-and-play, and no additional services will be coding will be required.
- What is an FRM?
The Footwell Module (FRM) is the master control module for all exterior lighting functions. All exterior light systems (headlights and side/parklights) are switched on and off via the light switch. Information to turn the lights on or off is supplied from the light switch directly to the FRM.
- Can an FRM be repaired?
Yes, an FRM can be repaired. First, a diagnostic check must be done on the damaged FRM to assess its repairability. If possible, an FRM can be repaired and restored. Alternatively, a replacement FRM can be installed.
- How much does it cost to fix a BMW FRM?
An OEM BMW FRM repair can cost up to $1300 at a BMW dealer. Typically the part is around $800, and the labor and programming are around $400. The ECU Pro offers a $250.00 repair, with a refurbished replacement costing $499 – All plug and play that doesn’t require any additional programming.
An FRM diagnostic test will need to be run on your existing unit to see if a repair can be done, or whether a replacement is needed. About 80% of these units are repairable. If there is water damage or extensive physical damage, you will need a replacement unit.
- What happens when there is an FRM fault?
If electrical components in your car, such as the indicators, headlights, electric mirrors, and locking mechanisms aren’t functioning, it’s likely that this is an FRM fault.
- What functions in the vehicle are controlled by the FRM?
The FRM controls the following functions in the car:
- The interior lights that are switched on directly by the FRM are also switched off.
- The FRM and the JBE monitor the motor speed of the respective power window motors. In this arrangement, the FRM or JBE can respond to overheating or possible blocking of the power window motors in the event of an object being trapped in the windows.
- The Footwell Module monitors the door contacts for the anti-theft alarm system. In the event of a change in the status, the FRM sends this information via the K-CAN, thus allowing the USIS to trigger the alarm.
- The Footwell Module (FRM) is the master control module for all exterior lighting functions.
- On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, the signal for activating the reverse light is obtained by the FRM from the EGS module via PT-CAN. On vehicles equipped with a manual transmission, the FRM obtains the signal from the reverse gear switch.
- The Footwell Module (FRM) monitors all of the exterior lighting system with the lights switched on or off, as long as terminal 15 is active.
- The control for the Adaptive Headlight is incorporated into the Footwell Module.
- The dynamic stability control sends signals relating to the yaw rate and vehicle speed to the FRM for the operation of the Adaptive Headlight Control function.
- The FRM in its function as the central control unit for the adaptive headlight sends signals to the stepper motor controllers every 20 ms.
- The folding function is controlled by the Footwell Module (FRM). When the mirror folding switch is pressed, the driver’s door switch cluster evaluates the request and transfers it to the FRM.
- When cruise control is in operation, the brake lights are actuated during automatic braking (legal requirement). To do this, a signal must be sent from the DSC to the footwell module via the PT-CAN.
- The Footwell Module supplies input signals for the convenient opening/closing function and monitors the door contacts.
If the instrument cluster doesn’t have power, then it can be a power issue on the vehicle and not the FRM.
- What is a stepper motor fault in an FRM?
Missing or non-plausible BUS signals are stored in the form of fault codes in the FRM. The fault types are stored in the stepper motor controller. The stepper motor controller is accessed via the FRM.
The ECU Pro can repair stepper motor faults within the FRM
- What are the primary functions of the FRM?
- Gateway Module for communication between devices connected to the LIN Bus and K-CAN (Outside Mirror & Drivers Switch Cluster).
- Evaluator of data from Door Contacts and Door Lock Cylinders
- Activator/controller of all Exterior Lights, Adaptive Headlights,
- Controller of Front Power Windows, Electric Load Shut-down
- Activation of Power Window Anti-Trap
- Stores the Vehicle Order information
- What are common FRM faults?
Common symptoms during FRM faults include:
- Indicators not working
- Hazard lights not working
- Headlights staying on / won’t switch off
- Taillights staying on / won’t switch off
- No main beam Interior lights not working
- Electric windows not working or will open but not always close
- No communications with FRM unit
- AC/heating fan does not work
- Where is the FRM located in a BMW?
The BMW Footwell Module (FRM) is located on the driver’s side footwell, by the side kick-panel. If your BMW is a left-hand drive, your FRM module will be at the left-hand kick panel as shown in the image. Similarly, if you have a right-hand drive BMW, it will be in the right-hand kick panel. It features a 128 pin, three plug control unit, which houses two 51 pin connectors. Another 26-pin connector is for the connection to the dashboard.
- FRM vs FEM?
While some may get confused between a FRM and FEM, a FRM (Footwell Module) manages the electrical sensors in the BMW, while the FEM (Front Electronic Module) controls entry and access to the vehicle, and acts as a gateway for other modules.
- Is it possible to remove the FRM?
Yes. To access the FRM module, you will first have to remove the door sill trim, unscrew the kick panel, and then get to the module. Removing the unit takes about 15 minutes.
- What do I need to send to test my FRM?
To have your BMW or MINI FRM module repaired, you only need to send your original FRM unit.
- How to prevent BMW or MINI FRM failure?
FRMs typically fail when the car’s battery is removed or when it goes flat. If the battery is old, and the vehicle’s battery is flat often, replace the battery.
A good quality battery in good condition is one of the best ways to prevent your FRM from failing.
- Can my car be driven if the FRM is removed?
Yes, the vehicle can still be driven. There will be no indicators and the headlights will stay on.
- Is the FRM an important module in BMW and MINI cars?
Yes, the FRM forms part of the primary control modules for the systems in E90
The primary control modules are:
- Junction Box Electronics Control Module (JBE)
- Car Access 2 (CAS2)
- Footwell Module (FRM)
- Roof Function Center (FZD)