BMW Repair: BMW climate control, bmw 328i convertible, climate control unit

Question
1. My 1996 BMW 328i convertible is have problem with its climate control unit.  The control simply will not respond and LCD display not working.
Meanwhile, the vehicle is blowing Very hot air during driving.  are they related issue.  Do I need to replace the climate control? If so, can I do it mayself by get the part on my own? and where can I get the cheaper control?
2. My msg display keeps on telling me "brkae light circuit failure" even after I've changed the fuse.  does it need to be reset?  Will I be able to do it on my own? what do I need to do?
Thank you Michael for your assistance!
Tom  

Answer
Tom,
Get a wiring diagram and start testing wires to deduce what the offending component is.  You can ask at this message board if they have seen the similar problem.
http://www.roadfly.org/bmw/forums/
I have never seen one problem that connects the two malfunctions in this vehicle personally.
-cheers