2021-2022 BMW X1 Emergency Call System Error TSB

BMW has issued Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 84 03 24 to address a common issue affecting 2021-2022 BMW X1 models. This bulletin provides guidance for diagnosing and repairing a fault related to the vehicle's telematics system, specifically when owners encounter certain warning messages and a diagnostic trouble code. The primary concern is the failure of the emergency battery within the Telematics Control Unit (TCB2).

Symptoms

Owners of affected BMW X1 vehicles may observe specific warning messages displayed in the vehicle's Check Control system. These messages include "End of life" or "Emergency call system error". When diagnosed, the vehicle's fault memory will store the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B7F341, which is described as "Emergency battery: Hardware faulty". These symptoms indicate a problem with the telematics system's backup power source.

Cause

The root cause of the "End of life" or "Emergency call system error" message and DTC B7F341 is a defective emergency battery within the Telematics Control Unit (TCB2). This battery may have reached the end of its operational life, leading to the hardware fault. A failing emergency battery can compromise the functionality of the vehicle's emergency call system.

Important Warnings

For any repair involving a Telematics Control Module (TCB2) Service Access Retrofit, BMW states that "Prior consent of the registered vehicle owner MUST be obtained first before proceeding." This ensures the owner is aware of and approves the additional retrofit procedure.

Repair Procedure Summary

To address the "BMW X1 emergency call system error B7F341", technicians should begin by running a diagnosis using the ISTA system and following the corresponding test module instructions. It is crucial to connect a BMW-approved battery charger/power supply (SI B04 23 10) throughout the diagnosis and repair process to maintain stable voltage.

If the diagnosis confirms the need to exchange the emergency battery in the TCB2, two primary repair approaches are available:

1. Original Repair Instructions: This involves carrying out the repair according to the original repair instructions, which require partial removal and installation of the rear portion of the headlining. Specific instructions are provided for vehicles without a panoramic glass sunroof (Repair Instructions 84 10 520) and those with a panoramic glass sunroof (Repair Instructions 84 10 522).
2. Service Access Retrofit: At the same time, a Telematics Control Module (TCB2) Service Access Retrofit (Repair Instructions 84 10 527) can be performed. This retrofit creates an easier access point to the TCB2, simplifying future repairs or diagnoses of the module. Performing this retrofit can reduce future service time and effort for the BMW X1 emergency call system error B7F341.

Both repair options involve accessing the TCB2, which is located under the headlining. The retrofit option is a one-time procedure that, once installed, makes subsequent access to the TCB2 quicker.

Required Tools or Parts

During the repair of the BMW X1 emergency call system error B7F341, specific parts and equipment may be needed:

• Battery Charger/Power Supply: A BMW-approved battery charger/power supply, referenced as SI B04 23 10, is required to maintain vehicle voltage during diagnosis and repair.
• Service Access Components: If the service access retrofit is performed, parts such as a "Bracket headlining" and a "Service access, telematics control unit" (available in oyster, grey, or black) will be required. Specific part numbers are determined by entering the VIN/chassis number into the Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC) or AIR system.

Claim Information

Repairs addressing a verified defect in materials and/or workmanship, including the one-time easy service access retrofit, are covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks. The repair code associated with this issue is 8410071200, described as "Battery in telematics control unit Permanent failure". Technicians should refer to the provided labor operations (e.g., 84 10 520, 84 10 522, 84 10 527) and flat rate unit (FRU) allowances for proper claim submission.

Source: NHTSA ID 11009005