BMW Z4 headlight wiring insulation deteriorated causing shorts and requires replacement on BMW Z4

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some BMW Z4 owners report experiencing issues with deteriorating headlight wiring insulation, which can lead to shorts and necessitate replacement. This deterioration is often attributed to heat stress from the original halogen bulbs, causing the plastic sheath to become brittle and break. Many owners have noted that the insulation can flake off, exposing copper wires and increasing the risk of electrical shorts, particularly during bulb replacement. BMW is aware of this common issue, with speculation that the insulation used during manufacturing may have degraded faster than anticipated. To address this problem, some owners have found success using liquid electrical tape to repair flaky insulation, while others consider removing the headlight to insulate the wires with heat shrink or electrical tape. Additionally, disabling features like daytime running lights may help mitigate further deterioration of the insulation. It is crucial for owners to address these issues promptly to ensure the proper functioning of their headlights and prevent potential electrical problems.

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