Everything You Need to Know About BMW and MINI FRM Repairs, Replacement, and Functionality

Every BMW and Mini vehicle has a footwell module (FRM), but unfortunately, they are known to be the centre of a few problems with these vehicles. The good news, though, is that there’s a lot of information and resources to help repair your FRM to get your car back on the road.

BMW & MINI FRM (Footwell Module) - All Frequently Asked Questions

Firstly, What Is a Footwell Module (FRM)?

The footwell module (FRM) controls the lights in BMW vehicles. When the FRM fails, it can affect the operation of the car's lights.

It's a small electronic component located on the driver-side in the footwell. It manages the communication between the car's lights and its central computer. The FRM is typically found in E series BMWs manufactured between 2007 and 2013.

A failed FRM can normally be identified by various issues relating to the vehicle's lights. These issues can be dangerous while driving and can also result in traffic tickets. That's why it's crucial you get it repaired at the first sign of trouble. 

You can find out more about the FRM and its operations here.

FRM REPAIR PROCESS

Who exactly do you go about repairing an FRM?

First and foremost, it’s best not to try and repair the actual module itself, but rather remove it and allow the team at The ECU Pro to test it.

1. Remove the FRM from your vehicle. It’s located behind the kick panel in the driver’s footwell.

2. Mail the part to us.

3. We diagnose and recommend whether repair or replacement is needed.

4. We repair or clone your module. All repairs and clones are 100% plug-and-play — no coding or programming is required.

5. Reinstall and drive. Your vehicle will recognize the repaired module immediately.

How long does an FRM repair take?

On average, we can complete most FRM repairs within 1-2 business days after we receive your unit. Of course, if there are some more significant problems or cloning is required, it could take 2-3 days in total. Courier and transport times are always unpredictable, though, but we ensure speedy and efficient work at the garage.

Do you offer express or same-day FRM repair service?

Yes, if an FRM is received before 11 am (EST), we can test and attempt to return before the end of the day, depending on courier availability.

Can I send a used FRM for cloning?

Yes. You can send a used FRM (from another BMW or MINI) as a donor unit. We will clone your original FRM data (VIN, vehicle order, and coding) to the replacement.

Note: Customer-supplied donor units are not covered under warranty. When The ECU Pro supplies the replacement FRM, it comes fully tested and includes our 6-month warranty.

What information do you need to clone my FRM?

We require your original FRM and your donor unit. From these, we’ll transfer all necessary vehicle data to make the replacement plug-and-play.

What happens if my FRM cannot be repaired?

We’ll obviously try to fix your existing FRM, but if your FRM cannot be repaired (extensive physical or water damage), you’ll be offered a replacement. We stock refurbished FRMs for most BMW and MINI models and can clone your original data to ensure plug-and-play installation.

How do you test an FRM module after repair?

Every FRM is bench-tested on our custom BMW/MINI test rig. We simulate lighting, window, and CAN/LIN communication functions to ensure all outputs operate correctly before shipping.

Is my FRM plug-and-play after repair?

Yes. All FRMs repaired or cloned by The ECU Pro are plug-and-play — no dealer coding, programming, or setup required.

Visit the-ecu-pro.com or call us today to get your BMW or Mini back on the road — fast, secure, and stress-free.