BMW: Heat and air controls, climate control system, unstable climate

Question
I have a 1997 BMW 328i.  I did not receive a manual when I purchased the car.  The heat and air will only work whenever it wants to.  At times I can see the auto button glow green but the screen is blank and I feel a little air coming out.  Most of the time it's not working and the screen and all its lights are off.  This is very uncomfortable in such an unstable climate.

Also, the check brake light circuit appears in the computer every now and then and I have no idea what this means.  I have checked all bulbs.

Can you please help save me time and money?  Thank you!

Answer
Christina,
 Unfortunately I have little experience the the climate control system on the E36 (your BMW).  The older BMW's had manual climate controls so they are extremely simple.  It's likely that you have a loose connection for the climate control module and that's why it only works "when it wants to".  I'm sorry I have no info to give you, but this looks like a dealership issue.  If you can find a GOOD BMW/Mercedes mechanic in the area (that has been recommended by others) I would give him a shot before taking it to the dealership.

 I appologize for the lack of info,
 Good luck
 Josh