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- Applicable Models
- Jump to Photos
- 6 Comments
Applicable Models:
- BMW 525i/xi Sedan (2004-07)
- BMW 528i/xi Sedan (2008-10)
- BMW 530i/xi Sedan (2004-07)
- BMW 530xi Wagon (2006-07)
- BMW 535i/xi Sedan (2008-10)
- BMW 535xi Wagon (2008)
- BMW 545i Sedan (2004-05)
- BMW 550i Sedan (2006-10)
- Project Time: 1.5 hours
- Tab: $50
- Talent
- Tools: Phillips & flathead screwdriver, DVOM
- Parts Required: Clutch pedal switch
- Performance Gain: Repair faulty clutch switch
- Complementary Modification: Replace brake light switch
BMW E60 models are equipped with an electronic clutch switch, mounted to the clutch master cylinder.
This switch is a magnetic actuated switch, sending an open or closed signal to the DME depending on clutch pedal position. When the clutch is pressed the switch closes. When the clutch switch is not pressed, the switch is open. The clutch switch is used to notify the DME that you pressed the clutch pedal. The signal generated by the clutch pedal switch is used for engine starting, engine performance and traction/ABS control.
The clutch pedal switch is mounted to the side of the clutch master cylinder. It clips onto the side of the clutch master cylinder, secured via a plastic tab on the switch. Replacing it is quite easy. Also, I will show you a little later in this tech article how to test it for faults.
Remember that your car may have been serviced before and had parts replaced with different size fasteners used in the replacement. The sizes of the nuts and bolts we give may be different from what you have so be prepared with different size sockets and wrenches.
Protect your eyes, hands and body from fluids, dust and debris while working on your vehicle. If you're working with the electrical system, disconnect the battery before beginning. Always catch fluids in appropriate containers and properly dispose of any fluid waste. Recycle parts, packaging and fluids when possible. Never work on your vehicle if you feel the task is beyond your ability.
Our vehicle may vary slightly from yours as models do change and evolve, as they grow older. If something seems different, let us know and share your info to help other users. Do you have questions or want to add to the article? Leave a comment below. When leaving a comment, please leave your vehicle information.
Remove the lower dashboard trim near the pedal assembly. See our tech article on lower dashboard trim removing.
Hot tip
Use a high impedance DVOM
Wayne R. Dempsey, Co-Founder & DIY Expert
Nick Czerula, DIY Expert
Project Photos
James
December 19, 2022
I get 11 volts
Followup from the Pelican Staff:
Oh which wire and when? What is battery voltage? - Nick at Pelican Parts
Bob
October 2, 2022
In reference to bypassing the clutch switch. Is the clutch switch giving power to send the signal wire, or getting ground to send the signal.
Followup from the Pelican Staff:
The switch toggle the reference voltage signals from 8 volts to close to zero volts. With the pedal pressed, the DME wants to see 8 volts. - Nick at Pelican Parts
Clint
June 8, 2021
Hi, I've recently been having problems starting mine. I've been told it could be the slave, the master, the clutch even the flywheel but your writeup seems to be on point. Is there any easy way to bypass the switch so it can be ruled out before I spend out on clutched and flywheels. Cheers in advance
Followup from the Pelican Staff:
Use the testing portion of this article to jump the switch and send the correct voltage. Just be careful, DO not to have the vehicle in gear. The engine could start and the vehicle could drive.- Nick at Pelican Parts
Alex
October 8, 2018
Hi Nick,
I would appreciate it if you can confirm the respective pins into which the 4 wires going to the clutch control switch should be connected to and which of the wires should be connected to the DME and brake light switch wiring.
Many thanks,
Alex
Followup from the Pelican Staff:
I don't have the wiring or connector diagram to consult. - Nick at Pelican Parts
Alex
August 17, 2017
Great write up Nick, can you please confirm the part code for the 4 wires that is connected to the clutch control switch and that goes to the DME.
Followup from the Pelican Staff:
I’m not the best with part numbers, I am the technical question person.Give The Pelican Parts parts specialists a call at 1-888-280-7799. They can figure out what part or repair kit you need. - Nick at Pelican Parts
SPAMHEAD
June 16, 2016
VERY GOOD DESCRIPTION A WIREING DIAGRAM OF THE CIRCUIT WOULD HELP AS WE ARE TRYING TO FIT A MANUAL DDE & CAS UNIT & KEY USED PARTS TO AN AUTOMATIC & NEED TO TELL THE CAS UNIT THE CLUTCH PEDAL IS DOWN TO TURN THE CAR OVER IE WHAT PINS THE CLUTCH PEDAL WIREING COME FROM THANKS DAVID C
Followup from the Pelican Staff:
Wiring can vary depending on model, best bet is to get the manual. - Nick at Pelican Parts
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Technical Forum Message Board Reader Questions About this Article
Applicable Models:
- BMW 525i/xi Sedan (2004-07)
- BMW 528i/xi Sedan (2008-10)
- BMW 530i/xi Sedan (2004-07)
- BMW 530xi Wagon (2006-07)
- BMW 535i/xi Sedan (2008-10)
- BMW 535xi Wagon (2008)
