61359197163 BMW MINI FRM
SKU: FRM Testing

TestingRecommended
- Comprehensive test of existing FRM to diagnose the problem.
- Mail-in testing service - Remove the original FRM and mail it to us.
- Our engineers will test your FRM and recommend a repair or replacement.
- FRM tested in actual vehicles.
- If no fault is found, your existing FRM will be returned.
- Return shipping is included in the price.

Symptoms of a failed ECU include:
- —
Headlights do not work - —
Indicators do not work - —
Lights stay on - —
Parking lights stay on - —
Windows do not work
TestingRecommended
- Comprehensive test of existing FRM to diagnose the problem.
- Mail-in testing service - Remove the original FRM and mail it to us.
- Our engineers will test your FRM and recommend a repair or replacement.
- FRM tested in actual vehicles.
- If no fault is found, your existing FRM will be returned.
- Return shipping is included in the price.
Repair
- Comprehensive FRM test included (valued at $99).
- Mail-in repair service - Simply remove the FRM and mail it to us.
- The unit will be repaired unless it is not possible due to extensive damage.
- 100% plug-and-play solution, no other coding is required.
- Return shipping is included in the price.
Replace
- Comprehensive FRM test included (valued at $99).
- Mail-in replacement service - Remove the original FRM and mail it to us.
- Original FRM data will be transferred to the new refurbished FRM.
- Refurbished replacement OEM part provided.
-
100% plug-and-play solution, no other coding is required.
- Return shipping is included in the price.
TestingRecommended
- Comprehensive test of existing FRM to diagnose the problem.
- Mail-in testing service - Remove the original FRM and mail it to us.
- Our engineers will test your FRM and recommend a repair or replacement.
- FRM tested in actual vehicles.
- If no fault is found, your existing FRM will be returned.
- Return shipping is included in the price.
Repair
- Comprehensive FRM test included (valued at $99).
- Mail-in repair service - Simply remove the FRM and mail it to us.
- The unit will be repaired unless it is not possible due to extensive damage.
- 100% plug-and-play solution, no other coding is required.
- Return shipping is included in the price.
Replace
- Comprehensive FRM test included (valued at $99).
- Mail-in replacement service - Remove the original FRM and mail it to us.
- Original FRM data will be transferred to the new refurbished FRM.
- Refurbished replacement OEM part provided.
-
100% plug-and-play solution, no other coding is required.
- Return shipping is included in the price.
How do BMW and MINI FRM Mail-In Repairs work?
The ECU Pro offers an affordable mail-in FRM repair service. To have your unit repaired, simply remove the FRM ( time required +-15-30 minutes) and mail it to us. Our professional team will either test, repair, or clone your unit.
In order to have your FRM repaired, tested, or cloned follow the steps below:
- Send your current FRM to us.
- We will run a full diagnostic test on your FRM and send you the report.
- A repair or replacement solution will be offered, which you can decide on.
- If the unit requires a repair or clone, we will deduct the testing fee from the remaining balance.
Our mail-in service is 100% plug-and-play and doesn't require any additional coding.
FAQs
How does the FRM repair process work?
- Remove the FRM from your vehicle. It’s located behind the kick panel in the driver’s footwell.
- Mail the part to us. We do not provide collection services.
- We diagnose and recommend whether repair or replacement is needed.
- We repair or clone your module. All repairs and clones are 100% plug-and-play — no coding or programming is required.
- Reinstall and drive. Your vehicle will recognize the repaired module immediately.
How long does an FRM repair take?
Most FRM repairs are completed within 1–2 business days. If cloning or sourcing a replacement is required, turnaround may extend to 2–3 days. Return shipping is fast and insured.
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 - we our replacement price does include a 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?
If your FRM has extensive physical or water damage, we’ll recommend 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?
Our FRM repairs are tested in actual vehicles and your will receive a video of your unit running in a vehicle.
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.
What is an FRM?
The Footwell Module (FRM) is an electronic control unit that manages all exterior lighting, window, and mirror functions. It acts as the communication gateway between switches, sensors, and actuators. The FRM receives signals from the light switch, door modules, and CAN/LIN bus, and sends output signals to control headlights, windows, and mirrors.
Where is the FRM located?
\The FRM is found in the driver-side footwell:
- On left-hand-drive cars: behind the left kick panel
- On right-hand-drive cars: behind the right kick panel
FRM vs FEM — what’s the difference?
- FRM (Footwell Module): Found in E-Series BMWs and R-Series MINIs (2005–2014). Controls lights, windows, and mirrors.
- FEM (Front Electronic Module): Found in F-Series BMWs (2014–on). Manages access control, immobilizer, and main gateway functions.
What BMW chassis use FRM3 modules?
FRM3 is found in:
- BMW E90/E91/E92/E93 3-Series
- BMW E70 X5 / E71 X6
- BMW E84 X1
- MINI R55–R61 models
How can I tell if I have FRM1, FRM2, or FRM3?
FRM1/FRM2: Earlier models (part numbers ending in 6135-9xxxxx) FRM3: Clearly labeled FRM3 or FRM3R on the sticker Diagnostic tools like ISTA or INPA can also display the FRM version.
Can an FRM from a BMW be used in a MINI?
Yes, sometimes. The hardware may be identical but requires cloning to match MINI-specific coding. We can perform this service and guarantee compatibility.
Are FRMs interchangeable between left- and right-hand-drive cars?
Yes. Hardware is identical, but mirror and lighting configurations differ. We clone your FRM data to ensure correct regional setup.
What other modules work with the FRM?
The FRM communicates with:
- CAS (Car Access System) – immobilizer and key functions
- JBE (Junction Box Electronics) – power distribution
- FZD (Roof Function Center) – interior lighting and sunroof
These work together to manage comfort and safety systems.
What are common FRM symptoms?
Indicators or hazards not working
- Headlights or taillights stuck on
- Windows not closing or responding
- No communication with FRM
- Interior lights not working
- AC or blower fan inactive
What are the most common FRM fault codes?
- A0B0 / A0B1 – Short circuit in light circuit
- 9CBC / 9CBD – Window motor communication fault
- A3B3 – LIN bus communication faul
These typically indicate internal FRM corruption or circuit failure.
What is a stepper motor fault?
Stepper motor faults relate to the adaptive headlight leveling system. The FRM commands external stepper controllers via LIN bus. If these signals are missing or implausible, fault codes are stored. We can repair this function by reprogramming or replacing the driver circuitry.
How do I know if my FRM needs repair or replacement?
If your lights, windows, or mirrors have stopped working and your diagnostic scanner can’t communicate with the FRM, it’s likely corrupted. About 90% of cases can be repaired; water or burnt PCB damage typically requires replacement.
Can I test the FRM myself?
Yes. Use a diagnostic tool such as ISTA, Autel, or Launch. If it shows no communication or coding corrupted, the FRM is faulty.
Why won’t my windows work after replacing the FRM?
If a replacement FRM wasn’t cloned with your original data, it will lack window initialization data. Our repairs always retain or clone the original configuration.
Why do my headlights stay on after turning off the ignition?
A stuck transistor or shorted light driver inside the FRM can cause headlights to remain on continuously. This is a common repairable fault.
Why does the FRM fail after a flat battery or jump-start?
Low voltage or sudden spikes during jump-starts can corrupt the FRM’s EEPROM data. This often results in no communication or locked lights/windows. Always maintain a strong, healthy battery.
Can programming errors cause FRM failure?
Yes. Interrupting a software update or using the wrong coding file can corrupt the FRM’s flash memory. We can usually restore these units through bench programming.
Does water damage affect FRM repairability?
In most cases, water damage requires a replacement FRM
How can I prevent FRM failure?
- Maintain a quality, healthy battery
- Avoid jump-starting or programming without a stable power supply
- Keep drain channels clear to prevent water intrusion
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal before FRM removal
Does disconnecting the battery before FRM removal help?
Yes. Always disconnect the negative terminal first. This prevents voltage spikes or short circuits that can corrupt or damage the module.
Can I remove the FRM myself?
- Remove door sill trim.
- Unscrew and remove the kick panel.
- Disconnect the three FRM plugs.
- Remove the module carefully.
- Always disconnect the battery first.
Can my car be driven without an FRM?
The vehicle may start and move, but indicators, windows, and mirrors won’t work, and headlights may stay on. It’s safe only for short transport or diagnostics — not for normal driving.
What do I need to send for FRM testing?
Just your original FRM module. We’ll perform a full diagnostic and contact you with results before repair or replacement.
Is the FRM an important module?
Yes. It’s one of the primary control units in BMW and MINI vehicles, working alongside CAS, JBE, and FZD to coordinate lighting, windows, safety, and comfort functions.
How to prevent BMW or MINI FRM failure?
Replace old batteries early, avoid voltage drops, and never jump-start the vehicle with weak or reversed connections. Use a charger if storing your car long-term.
Can an FRM be repaired more than once?
Yes, provided the hardware is not physically damaged. Most recurring failures are due to power-related issues, not poor repair.
What are the differences between FRM1, FRM2, and FRM3?
FRM1: Basic lighting control FRM2: Adds LIN-bus communication for mirrors and windows FRM3: Adds adaptive headlights, light sensor support, and improved voltage protection
Which BMW models are most affected by FRM failure?
E90 / E91 / E92 / E93 3-Series E70 X5 / E71 X6 E84 X1 MINI R56, R57, R58, R59, R60, R61
Is it possible to prevent FRM corruption during programming?
Yes. Always connect a battery support unit during programming or coding to maintain a stable 13.5–14V supply.
How common are FRM failures?
Very common on E-series BMW and R-series MINI vehicles, especially between 2007–2013 models. A single low-voltage event can cause permanent corruption.
Do repaired FRMs last as long as new ones?
Yes. Once repaired and reflashed properly, the module performs like new. We use high-spec components and factory-grade software.
What is covered under your FRM warranty?
- Repairs or replacements supplied by The ECU Pro include a 6-month warranty.
- Warranty covers workmanship and internal failure.
- Customer-supplied donor units are not covered.
What happens if my FRM fails again under warranty?
Simply send the module back with your original invoice. We’ll test and repair or replace it at no cost.
Can I call for FRM support?
Yes. Our technicians provide phone and email support to help diagnose installation or power issues.