Original BMW Electronic Parking Brake (EMF) Switch for BMW X5 E70 (2007–2013) and X6 E71 (2008–2014)

Mounted just behind the gear selector on the center console, the Original BMW EMF switch is the control for the electronic parking brake on the 2007–2013 BMW X5 and 2008–2014 BMW X6. It controls the parking brake actuator as well as the Auto Hold function. BMW names it Switch EMF. An electronic parking brake replaces the hand lever with a switch that signals the actuator to apply or release the rear brakes. BMW shows production from October 2007 onward, and this switch is made in the United States.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

This number replaced the earlier 61 31 9 156 133, and BMW marks that change as not exchangeable retrospectively. A failing switch shows up as a parking brake warning light on the dash, a parking brake that will not engage or release when you press the switch, or intermittent and unresponsive operation, often from an electrical fault in the switch. A bad switch can also make it difficult to put the vehicle into park. BMW's parts data covers the E70 and E70 facelift X5, including the X5 M, plus the E71 X6 and X6 M and the E72 ActiveHybrid X6.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (Original BMW part)
• Part number: 61-31-9-148-508
• BMW part name: Switch EMF (electronic parking brake control switch)
• Location: center console, behind the gear selector
• Controls: parking brake actuator and Auto Hold
• Production start: October 2007
• Replaces: 61 31 9 156 133 (not exchangeable retrospectively)
• Made in the United States
• Warranty: 24-month parts warranty on Original BMW Parts

Common Questions

Where is the EMF switch on an X5 or X6?
It sits just behind the gear selector on the center console.

Does this switch also run Auto Hold?
Yes. It controls both the parking brake actuator and the Auto Hold function.

My parking brake warning light is on. Is it the switch?
It can be. A warning light, a brake that will not engage or release, or intermittent response are all signs of a failing switch.

Fitment & Compatibility

Confirm your model year and submodel against the table below before ordering. Send your VIN and PMB Performance will confirm the fit, drawing on more than 20 years in the trade.