- Start the car’s engine.
- All failure and warning notifications should be ignored or awaited.
- For “CHECK” submenu navigation, use the left stalk. You may scroll through all of the messages here.
- Hold the BC button pushed for 5 seconds on the left stalk.
- When BMW CC-ID codes appear on the bottom display, let go of the button.
- Continue going through the messages. Now, beneath each message, you can see the failure and warning codes.
- To determine more precisely what led to the warning or failure message appearing on your BMW’s instrument cluster, compare message number with the list below.
In This Article...
How to interpret BMW error codes
It’s simple to read BMW error codes for any module, however the correct OBD2 scanner is required. A list of BMW scan tools is provided in the section below.
- Look under the dashboard for the diagnostic port.
- Connect your BMW scanner.
- Don’t start the engine after turning on the ignition.
- After the scanner has started, choose the BMW model and chassis.
- Select Control Unit or Auto Scan.
- Enter after selecting Read Codes from the scroll-down menu.
Then, we examine several cutting-edge BMW diagnostic tools that can troubleshoot a variety of systems. To understand how to interpret fault codes on a BMW, watch the videos below.
Fault Code Reset
I neglected to plug the air flow meter back in after cleaning my air filter today, thus the engine ran poorly and the Check Engine light illuminated.
When I restarted the car after plugging the AFM back in, it continued to run poorly, as if it were still unplugged.
For fun, I performed the stomp test, and the code returned as 1215, as it should. I was pleased that I could obtain the engine codes.
To get the engine to work properly, I had to reset the light by unplugging the battery and clear the DME’s code.
I found it a little odd that even though the issue had been resolved by reattaching the AFM electronics, the DME kept acting as though it hadn’t.
Does everyone else have similar experiences?
Is there an alternative to unplugging the battery to reset the DME?
—
I don’t believe there one because the wiring diagram demonstrates that it is connected without a fuse directly to the battery.
If you check Pelican, I think the codes can be cleared by keeping the pedal depressed for 10 seconds after all of the codes have been read. Check out the website; I might be off.
“You may reset the computer and erase every code once you’ve finished reading them. Ensure that the last code (1000) has appeared, then depress the gas pedal for a period of time greater than 10 seconds. The DME’s memory should be cleared as a result. If the fault code reading procedure is repeated, the computer should produce code 1444, which denotes the absence of any errors.”
How are BMW trouble codes read?
It is simple and quick to read out the error memory using a standalone diagnostic equipment. Just like a pro, you simply insert the connecting cable into the BMW’s OBD2 socket, and the device displays the diagnostic codes. Typically, a diagnostic tool is a suitable weight and useful size.
The drawback in this situation might be the need to first purchase an appropriate diagnostic tool. They are typically available online for less than $100. But not every diagnostic tool is compatible with every BMW.
Be cautious! A product’s low cost does not always imply that it is high quality. particularly for BMW diagnostic equipment. Extremely cheap devices should be handled with extra caution because they can be fake. These frequently have problems or can only be utilized in conjunction with expensive, specialized software that must be bought.
How can a BMW warning light be turned off?
Find the tiny odometer button in the instrument panel’s lower left corner. until the service message shows, press and hold. When the message says “Reset,” let go of the button and press and hold it once more.
Do fault codes automatically disappear?
Yes, after a number of successful test cycles, the error codes disappear. Depending on the automobile model and engine control module, the needed number of successful test cycles ranges between 10 and 20.
Without a scanner, how do you read BMW error codes?
While turning the ignition key ON, press the Trip and Reset buttons on the odometer. Release the odometer Reset and Trip buttons after turning the key to the ON position to see if the Diagnostic Trouble Code, or DTC, shows up on the odometer display.
You’ve generated a diagnostic trouble code without a code scanner if the error code appears. Make a note of each fault code and look up the DTC definitions in your manual.
After a repair, do I need to clear any codes?
A wonderful technique to keep track of the condition of your fleet or the cars and trucks that belong to your frequent customers is by noting, fixing, and then erasing codes. You may track driving patterns, identify potential causes of your cars’ breakdowns, and detect patterns of failure in your vehicles. However, if a code is not cleared after a repair, you can end yourself questioning the problem or having to complete the codes twice. Clearing codes should therefore always be a crucial step in the restoration procedure.
Will a BMW check engine light automatically reset?
Since the Condition-Based Servicing system is used by the majority of BMW models, your check engine light ought to automatically turn off after the problematic issue has been fixed.
What does my BMW’s caution light mean?
Red denotes a problem that needs to be fixed right now. Orange denotes a less urgent problem, such as a need for car maintenance. You can learn about lights and indications from the colors blue and green. Flashing warning lights additionally indicate a critical issue
What is the time required for a BMW computer to reset?
Amazing detective work produced the solution! Unplugging the negative battery cable for 10 to 15 minutes will reset a BMW ECU. For most BMW models, this ought to be sufficient to reset the ECU.
How long can a BMW check engine light be on?
It is still possible to drive your car if the Check Engine light comes on for any reason, but it is only advised to go another 50 to 100 miles before checking your car’s computer for problem codes. You can pinpoint the problem at hand using this technique and deal with it however you see proper.
Depending on the problem that caused the Check Engine light to come on, you could be able to keep driving for a very long time or only a few days. The engine computer has time to reset some sensors after traveling between 50 and 100 miles, which could resolve the issue.
What does the BMW yellow engine light signify?
Your BMW should be taken in right away if the check engine light begins to flash. This indicates that there is an urgent need for repair. Usually, a serious engine misfire that causes unburned fuel to leak into the exhaust system is indicated by this blinking light.
What does the BMW yellow triangle mean?
Service Vehicle: A yellow symbol will appear when your vehicle needs maintenance. Your BMW vehicle’s service indicator will turn red if it’s past due.
Is it legal to operate a BMW with the engine light on?
One of two things can happen when the check engine light turns on: it can either stay on or it can blink.
You can continue driving for a short while if your check engine light comes on but is not flashing, which indicates that the problem is probably not significant. However, it is advised that you schedule a certified BMW mechanic to examine your car as soon as possible.
The cause of the check engine light is almost certainly a major problem if it is flashing. You should safely pull over and have your car towed if it is performing poorly or making strange noises. Consider stopping if the check engine light is flashing but the rest of the car appears to be in working order. Speak with an expert auto shop to find out whether you can drive to a technician or if you need to have the car towed.
The check engine light should always be checked if it appears on your dashboard. Even little problems can develop into larger ones that cost you more money and cause more harm.
What happens when the automobile computer is reset?
Before taking the trouble to fix this part on your car, you might want to know what a reset can help with. It is a lot of effort, after all. All of these might not be necessary if you don’t need to reset. You might even put your car in danger.
- enabling you to start the engine of your car
- remove the check engine light
- resolving any irregular engine activity
- Eliminate any strange burning odors or odours
Fixing this device will help all of these. It is crucial to know how to reset the computer in your car for this reason.
Make sure to examine the car’s computer if you experience any of these issues. You’ll probably benefit from a complete reset rather than having to pay a hefty sum to a mechanic who might or might not be able to solve the issue. We shall then begin the reset procedure. There are two primary approaches.
The best approach to purchase a car is through the CoPilot app. We’ll show you all you need to know about each listing, including how long it’s been on the lot and whether or not there are comparable cars in the area for less money. We’re built using the same technologies that dealerships use.
What should you do if your engine light is orange?
Depending on the issue, if the check engine light comes on, it may flicker or be on all the time. A issue that requires immediate attention is indicated by a blinking light, or in some cars, a red light instead of a yellow or orange light. In either case, you ought to have the car looked at by a mechanic.
An engine misfire that is severe enough in late-model cars to send unburned fuel into the exhaust system, where it can quickly destroy the catalytic converter and necessitate an expensive repair, is typically indicated by a blinking light. If that occurs, you should turn down the engine and get the automobile or truck checked out as soon as you can.
Even if there is no immediate danger if the light is steady, you should make an appointment as soon as feasible. Even while your fuel mileage may be declining and your vehicle may be spewing unsafe amounts of hydrocarbons and other pollutants, you might not notice a decline in performance since modern automotive systems frequently try to adjust when there is a problem.
According to Jim Collins, a national training team leader for Ford Motor Co., “The customer is really, in the long run, potentially hurting their pocketbook by leaving that light on and ignoring it.” The car’s computer may in some severe circumstances lower power for you in an effort to lessen the likelihood of damage.
Here are some recommendations on what you should do if the check engine light illuminates:
- Search for a critical issue that need quick action. Look for any warning signs of low oil pressure or overheating on your dashboard in the gauges and lights. These circumstances call for you to stop and turn off the engine as soon as you can find a secure location to do so. On some cars, a yellow check engine light indicates troubleshoot, while a red one commands immediate stopping.
- Possibly tighten the gas cap. This frequently makes the issue go away. The light might not reset for a while, so keep that in mind. Some automobiles feature a secondary indicator that sounds when the gas cap is loose.
- Reduce the load and speed. Reduce your speed and make an effort to lessen the demands on the engine if the check engine light is on or you notice any major performance issues, including a lack of power. For instance, it would be wise to put an end to hauling a trailer. Get the car evaluated as soon as you can to avoid costly damage.
- If any built-in diagnostic tools are available, use them. Many contemporary vehicles feature built-in remote diagnostic capabilities that allow for reporting on fault codes and scheduling an appointment for service. Today, numerous automakers offer remote diagnostics and the option to book a service appointment, including Fiat Chrysler, Ford, Hyundai, Jaguar/Land Rover, and Volvo.