Where is the Headlight Auto Level (Range Control) Module Located?

[BMWBig6]

The archives talk about the range control module (that controls the headlight self-leveling continuous adjustment for elevation angle and heavy loads) being located on the "side of the headlamp housing" but I only see 2 ballast modules. When I try and search for the part by name on some parts websites, the diagrams show a single headlight range control module located up by the cowl/firewall area (nowhere near the actual lamps).

So how many modules are there (one for left and right, or just one for both sides)? And where are they located?

If the auto-leveling works on the passenger side, but the driver side is stuck (doesn't move up or down to compensate for hills and doesn't do the usual self-test movement when starting the car), does that mean the headlight itself is bad, or the range control module is faulty?

[TDIaholic]

The control module is located behind the glovebox, toward the right side. The motors are in the headlight housings.

[BMWBig6]

Thanks! So if one side still works, and the other side seems to only work half the time, it's likely a headlight motor and not the control module, right?

Where exactly is the range control module located behind the glove box? Is it accessible from the passenger side fuse panel or do you have to take half the dash apart?

[TDIaholic]

Yes, I would look at the motors first. The control module cannot be accessed without removing the glovebox. It's located way in the back of the dash, so it's not visible from the end panel.

[cory_can]

One other thing to possibly consider. The wiring harness that runs to the the adaptive headlights is right by the front control arms and can get pinched. Have you lowered or changed your front suspension lately?

[BMWBig6]

Yes, I would look at the motors first. The control module cannot be accessed without removing the glovebox. It's located way in the back of the dash, so it's not visible from the end panel.

Thank you! I'll take a look at the headlight itself (assuming the motors can't really be "serviced" separately).

One other thing to possibly consider. The wiring harness that runs to the the adaptive headlights is right by the front control arms and can get pinched. Have you lowered or changed your front suspension lately?

No, have not changed suspension but I did have to replace a suspension level sensor with a new one. It previously generated an error code but since replacing the sensor, no code has returned. In fact there are no error codes showing on VCDS. The dealer already tried to reset and perform an adaptation on the headlight, and after aiming it, the self level function seemed to work for a few key cycles, then it was like the driver side headlight "forgot" its settings and would remain stuck (pointed at ground). It will work sometimes, then other times misbehave again. Since the dealer replaced the level sensor (on the suspension) and performed multiple adaptations already with limited success, they are thinking the headlight itself is to blame. But I want to know what role the range control sensor plays, and if that would cause problems with one side or both sides (as my passenger side headlight works flawlessly).