Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Brief Description Of Components
The SMG system comprises the following key components:
4 Wheel Speed Sensors The wheel-speed sensors of the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) measure the wheel speeds of the individual wheels.
RPA button (E46, E53, E83, E85) The RPA button is only needed for initializing the PRA.
(RPA initialization means "teaching the system the tire pressures".
CID: Central Information Display Vehicles that are equipped with CID are initialized using the CID.
On-board computer button and rocker switch on turn-signal/main-beam switch (E87, E90, E91) Initialization is performed on the LCD display, using the BC button and the rocker switch on the turn-signal/main-beam switch. The on-board computer functions are selected with the rocker switch.
The RPA software is in the following control units, depending on model series:
- RPA Control Unit
(E46 all-wheel drive)
The E46 All-wheel drive has a separate RPA control unit.
The 4 wheel-speed sensors measure the wheel speeds. The DSC control unit sends the signals through 4 direct wires to the RPA control unit.
Alternatively
- DSC control unit with additional software for Run Flat Indicator
(E46, E53, E60, E61, E63, E64, E83, E85, E87, E90, E91)
With DSC Mk60 and DSC 8, the RPA is integrated into the DSC control unit through additional software.
Alternatively
- CIM: Chassis integration module
(E65, E66)
The CIM controls:
- Servotronic
- Steering column adjustment
- Run Flat Indicator (RPA)
The following control units are involved in the functions of the Run Flat Indicator:
- CAS: Car Access System
E60, E61, E63, E64, E65, E66, E87, E90, E91
The CAS control unit provides input signals relating to terminal status (e.g. terminal 15 ON).
- GM: Basic Module
E46, E53, E83, E85
The general module provides input signals relating to terminal status (e.g. terminal 15 ON).
- JBE: Junction Box Electronics
E87, E90, E91
The JBE is the data interface (= gateway) between the K-CAN and the PT-CAN. (K-CAN stands for "Body Controller Area Network"; PT-CAN stands for "Powertrain Controller Area Network") The junction box consists of the junction-box electronics and the electrical distribution center.
- KGM: Body-Gateway Module
E60, E61, E63, E64 from 09/2005
The body-gateway module replaces the safety and gateway module (SGM). The KGM forms the data interface (= gateway) between the K-CAN and the PT-CAN.
- M-ASK/CCC: Multi-Audio System Controller/Car Communication Computer The M-ASK/CCC will emits an acoustic warning through the loudspeakers if tire pressure drops. (On vehicles without M-ASK or CCC, the instrument cluster will emit the warning.)
- SGM: Safety and gateway module
E60, E61, E63, E64 up to 09/2005 E65, E66 from 03/2004
The SGM is the data interface (= gateway) between the K-CAN, byteflight and the PT-CAN.
- SZL: Steering Column Switch Cluster
E87, E90, E91
The signals from the on-board computer button and from the rocker switch are recorded and processed in the SZL. The data are transmitted to the instrument cluster through a direct wire (on-board computer).
- ZGM: Central Gateway Module
E65, E66 until 03/2004
The ZGM forms the data interface (= gateway) between the K-CAN and the PT-CAN.
- KOMBI and CID:Instrument Cluster and Central Information Display
A fault in the RPA or drop in tire pressure will be indicated by the RPA indicator and warning light in instrument cluster. At the same time, the symbol will light up in the LC display.
Faults registered by the RPA are indicated as follows by the RPA indicator and warning light (for variations, please refer to national version):
- The RPA indicator and warning light lights up:
- Red (with acoustic signal): Drop in tire pressure more than approx. 30 % +/- 10 %. Driving safety is no longer guaranteed.
- Yellow: RPA failed
- The RPA indicator and warning light lights up:
Information about the Check-Control message can be called up in the CID (CID is fitted depending on the vehicle's equipment).
RPA Indicator And Warning Lights And Central Information Display
Installation Location
The Run Flat Indicator (RPA) has the following displays in the instrument cluster:
- RPA Indicator And Warning Light
- Symbol In LC Display
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.