Center High-Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL) - 2011 528i

The F10-generation BMW 5-Series utilizes a full-LED Center High-Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL) mounted at the upper rear window edge, eliminating traditional bulb sockets. When junkyard hunting, target 2011-2013 sedans and verify part number 63257205216 stamped on the housing edge; avoid 2014+ LCI donors which carry 63257323147 and feature incompatible mounting tabs. Common failure modes include individual LED segment burnout causing dark stripes during braking, or moisture intrusion through cracked lens seals. Inspection requires checking for uniform amber/red illumination across the entire array. Installation demands removing the rear parcel shelf trim—accessible via trunk liner screws—and disconnecting the 2-pin AMP connector. Never twist or force the housing during extraction; the plastic mounting studs snap easily from heat-cycled nylon. If the donor vehicle shows signs of rear glass replacement, pass on the CHMSL as glass adhesive chemicals often etch the LED lens surface.