E61 Touring Discussion The touring is also known as the wagon version of the 5 series.

RLS sensor initialization

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Old 08-05-2023 | 02:32 PM
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Default RLS sensor initialization (RESOLVED)

Hi all,

How can one do RLS initialization? I am having this error in both my RLS module and DSC module, initialization error. I didn't come across a proper procedure of doing this initialization. INPA have activate option, but it doesn't guide you or tell you what or when it is happening or happened.

I see BMW used various of these sensors depending on what options the car came with. Mine has HUD, LDW and auto wipers and headlights with auto leveling.

RLS error - A129
DSC error - 5ED2

thanks for any suggestions

Last edited by pavjayt; 09-09-2023 at 07:25 AM. Reason: Spelling Corrections
Old 08-05-2023 | 03:23 PM
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It should be a simple replacement and reset. The reset is instant so there's no other notifications that come up. Once it's reset you clear code.
Old 08-05-2023 | 06:47 PM
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Originally Posted by seanjordan20
It should be a simple replacement and reset. The reset is instant so there's no other notifications that come up. Once it's reset you clear code.
Does this mean you replace the sensor(, clear the code), and it's just happy again?
Old 08-05-2023 | 06:54 PM
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Originally Posted by spectre6000
Does this mean you replace the sensor(, clear the code), and it's just happy again?
I never replaced the sensor or windshield, it showed up when I did software update via NCSExpert (while I am getting familiar with it and practice on small modules) and since then it is lingering around in the codes and just reappears even when I clear it and do Activate->Initialize, no matter how many times I do.
Old 08-05-2023 | 08:30 PM
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Originally Posted by spectre6000
Does this mean you replace the sensor(, clear the code), and it's just happy again?
No a reset needs to be done like stated then clear code
Old 08-06-2023 | 08:36 AM
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Originally Posted by seanjordan20
No a reset needs to be done like stated then clear code
"Reset" doesn't mean much to me in this context (yet), unfortunately. Can you elaborate/be more specific? I'm about to have to do this with a new windshield in a week or so with the replacement sensor currently in the mail.
Old 08-06-2023 | 08:46 AM
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Originally Posted by spectre6000
"Reset" doesn't mean much to me in this context (yet), unfortunately. Can you elaborate/be more specific? I'm about to have to do this with a new windshield in a week or so with the replacement sensor currently in the mail.
You perform a reset in INPA or ISTA. Whichever program you have. I don't know any other way to elaborate a reset needs to be done. Probably best for you to let the company whose changing the windshield handle it.
Old 08-06-2023 | 08:48 AM
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INPA/INSTA process. Got it. My glass guy doesn't do that stuff. Just installs. Old school. I have a shop grade scanner that might have the option. Otherwise, I'll have to tap a friend down in town that I know has a laptop set up with one/both of those.
Old 08-06-2023 | 06:44 PM
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I just tried it again by doing Init in INPA and then erasing the code. It came back almost immediately. Looks like I have to use ISTA service function to see if that makes any difference. Any more thoughts???

At least the light sensor is working since I can see the light values change in INPA analog values section when I shine light over it.

Last edited by donpb; 08-06-2023 at 07:27 PM. Reason: Spelling Corrections
Old 08-07-2023 | 07:05 AM
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On my E46 when I retrofitted RLS (I installed my own prism on the glass since i hadn’t changed the windshield) I kept telling it to initialize and the error wouldn’t go away. Turned out I had a bad sensor. Borrowed the sensor from a friend’s car and it instantly initialized. Then later got a crack in my windshield and got a new one with prism and it worked much better. I recognize this is a different platform than the E60 but it is possible your sensor is bad? On the E46 you tell it to initialize, then turn the key off and back on and that’s when it either initializes or sets a code.



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