So what plug is this, exactly?

[KevinT98]

Hi all, new Z3 owner (1998 2.8 5-spd) just starting to refresh a project car. As I pulled out center console I found a few plugs that were unplugged...? I assume an earlier owner error. Anyone recognize the picture below? It’s at the rear of the park brake, looks like toward to subwoofer but the sub is working I think, so it’s not that...
Any knowledge is appreciated! Thank you!

 

[Rudyrov]

Might be rear window defroster for the hardtop option?

 

[KevinT98]

Hmm, maybe? There’s no switch in the center console for rear window defrost but were the Z’s pre-wired for it?

 

[t-tony]

I doubt it.

Tony.

 

[Ianmc]

The plug wrapped is for the rear window defroster; all Z3s with "hardtop preparation" had it.

 

[the Nefyn cat]

If you're not sure what the car came with, stick the last seven of the VIN into something like this https://www.mdecoder.com/ and much may be revealed. There seems to be a basic loom fitted to these cars that has all the plugs for optional extras fitted so that it's easy for the factory to add stuff as required. The later the car, the more "optional" bits become "standard", just BMWs way of getting rid of unused parts.

 

[KevinT98]

Thanks guys, much appreciated! As I am installing the facelift center console I’ve come across more plugs with seemingly nowhere to go, so it’s good to know it has a kind of “one loom fits all” wiring.