The way to Diagnose a BMW 1Open the BMW's driver-side door. Appear into the leg-space beneath the dashboard. There, you will discover 16 pin-receiving Data Hyperlink Connector. This DLC outlet is featured in distinctive locations, depending on the model of BMW you will be operating with. Some may possibly readily observed, but other individuals could be concealed behind an access panel. Really should you've got difficulty locating your BMW's DLC outlet, there is certainly an internet application that could assist (see Resources).2Connect your diagnostic handheld towards the DLC outlet. For most devices, this really is a comparable method. A scanner or even a code reader typically comes having a diagnostic cable having a 16-prong plug. Connect the cable towards the device, and plug the cable into the DLC outlet.3Switch your device on.
Then slide your BMW's key in to the vehicle's ignition. Switch to "On." This can activate the BMW's electrical array. Depending on the device along with the technique you are operating with, you could possibly also require an active engine. If this really is the situation, get started the automobile's engine at this time.4Wait a handful of seconds to a minute. Your device and also the vehicle's diagnostic system will establish a connection. Some devices, when an incoming information stream is detected, will automatically retrieve active difficulty codes. Should you usually do not possess a device preprogrammed to accomplish this, seek advice from your device's handbook. Button configurations and common layout differ by brand and kind of diagnostic handheld. Your device's handbook will detail the precise instructions on the best way to enter a code-retrieving command.5Look by way of the codes in your device's display screen. How the codes are displayed also is determined by the device you are utilizing. OBD-II codes are alphanumeric Vehicle Diagnostic equipment, and also the 1st letter on the trouble code will specify where the issue is situated. Anti-locking brake codes are likely to be purely numerical. Lots of devices will also differentiate a code's status.
Any code listed as "pending" are infrequent malfunctions; these difficulties have not activated one of your BMW's warning lights.6Copy the active trouble codes onto a separate sheet of paper. In case you are utilizing over a single scanner and troubleshooting greater than a single diagnostic technique, be certain you categorize this list. Columns are helpful methods to organize difficulty codes. This is also correct for OBD-II diagnostics, which acts as an umbrella for quite a few varieties of codes. As an example, P-codes cover the BMW's powertrain, while B, C, and U codes cover the physique, chassis and network communications method.7Look up each and every code pulled from the BMW. Some device handbooks will include coding definitions. OBD-II scanners, for instance Auto tools, supply generic coding lists superior for all post-1996 automobiles.
On the other hand, you'll need to go on the web to locate BMW's supplemental OBD-II codes. As a general rule, a vehicle's owner's manual won't contain coding definitions for any diagnostic method. Even so, trouble codes can simply be found on the net (see Resources).8Copy the suitable definitions to their corresponding trouble codes. Read through all the definitions and make a decision. When you've got the mechanical practical experience, you may attempt DIY fixes on a few of the difficulties. On the other hand, some diagnostic systems, like ABS brakes, are incredibly complicated and need to be deferred to a trained mechanic.9Take your code list with you, for those who make a decision to seek advice from a BMW-certified mechanic. This list will save you cash in diagnostic fees.
