B612315

Page 1 of 2
SI B61 23 15
General Electrical Systems
April 2016
Technical Service
This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B61 23 15 dated December 2015.
SUBJECT
The Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full
MODEL
F22 (2 Series Coupe)
F23 (2 Series Convertible)
F30 (3 Series Sedan)
F31 (3 Series Sports Wagon)
F32 (4 Series Coupe)
F33 (4 Series Convertible)
F34 (3 Series Gran Turismo)
F36 (4 Series Gran Coupe)
F15 (X5)
F16 (X6)
SITUATION
The low washer fluid warning light is illuminated even though the washer fluid tank is full. There
are no faults stored in the system for the washer fluid level switch.
CAUSE
A non-approved washer fluid is used (fluids that contain a silicone additive, normally colored other
than blue).
INFORMATION
The washer fluid level sensor is a contactless capacitive sensor. The sensor sends a low fluid level
signal to the gateway module (FEM – Front Electronics Module or BDC – Body Domain
Controller) which in turn displays a low washer fluid warning in the instrument cluster. The use of
a “non-approved” washer fluid (silicone-based fluid) can cause the low fluid warning light to come
on even when the reservoir is full. Refer to ISTA document “FB-GZ-B17A-F20 Washer fluid level
sensor” for information on how this capacitive sensor operates.
PROCEDURE
1. Using ISTA, check for faults stored for the windshield washer system.
https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/325... 5/6/2016
Page 2 of 2
Is a fault stored for the windshield washer level sensor?
NO- Go to step 2.
YES- diagnose the system using normal troubleshooting with ISTA.
2. Check the windshield washer reservoir.
Is the reservoir showing residue from colored fluids?
NO- diagnose the system using normal troubleshooting with ISTA. A fault code may be
stored if an electrical fault occurs in the circuit.
YES- flush the reservoir and refill with a recommended fluid.
NOTE: We recommend using “BMW Group approved” washer fluid when servicing the vehicle or
performing repairs on the windshield washer system.
PARTS INFORMATION
Part Number
Description
Quantity
83 19 2 406 220
BMW WWS Cold
Weather Concentrate
35% 55 Gal
As needed
83 19 2 361 205
BMW Windshield
Washer Concentrate 1
Gal
As needed
NOTE: As applicable, do not exceed your state’s maximum for the allowable amount/percentage of
“Washer Concentrate” that can be used when mixing the windshield washer fluid solution.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Not applicable.
[ Copyright ©2016 BMW of North America, Inc. ]
https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/325... 5/6/2016