36 11... Service solution for RDC control unit (US version)

2013 Mini Cooper Countryman, Standard TransSECTION 36 11... Service solution for RDC control unit (US version)
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW 528xi, 2010 BMW 528i, 2009 BMW 528xi, 2009 BMW 528i, and 2008 BMW 528xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on protection against electrostatic damage (ESD protection)  . See 61 35... NOTES ON ESD PROTECTION (ELECTRO STATIC DISCHARGE) .

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

Remove RDC control unit .

Remove top trim on tail panel. . See  51 46 050 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING TOP TRIM ON REAR APRON  . 

Secure RDC control unit bracket (1) with screw (2) to side panel (3).

Installation: 

Make sure RDC control unit bracket (1) is correctly seated in side panel opening (4).

Fig 1: Identifying RDC Control Unit Bracket, Screw, Side Panel And Side Panel Opening
G05476999Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Slide RDC control unit (2) in direction of arrow into RDC control unit bracket (6).

Connect plug connection for repair wiring harness (1) to RDC control unit (2) and lock.

Lay repair wiring harness (3) parallel to vehicle wiring harness (4) and secure with cable ties (5).

Installation: 

Make sure repair wiring harness is laid without chafing.

Fig 2: Sliding RDC Control Unit Into RDC Control Unit Bracket
G05477000Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Cut off plug for RDC control unit (2) directly at cable outlet (3) and discard.

Strip insulation from cable ends.

NOTE:
  • Cutting cables to length and strip insulation

Slide shrink-fit hoses over free cable ends.

Crimp free wire ends with butt connectors of repair wiring harness (1).

Slide shrink-fit hoses over butt connectors and shrink on with hot air blower.

Fig 3: Identifying Wiring Harness, RDC Control Unit And Cable Outlet
G05477001Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.