BMW Diagnostics

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW 760Li, 2003 BMW 745i, and 2003 BMW 745Li. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

BMW diagnostic trouble codes are stored as soon they occur even before the Check Engine Light (MIL) comes on. BMW codes are defined by BMW, Bosch and Siemens to provide greater detail to fault specific information.

On Bosch systems, a maximum of 4 sets of 3 fault-specific environmental conditions are stored within each fault code. This information can change and is specific to each fault code to aid in diagnosis. A maximum of 10 different faults containing 3 environmental conditions can be stored. BMW codes also store and display a time stamp when the fault last occurred. A fault qualifier gives more specific detailed information about the type of fault (upper limit, lower limit, disconnection, plausibility, etc.).

BMW codes are capable of recording current fault status. Code will advise whether fault is actually still present, not currently present or intermittent. Fault specific information is stored and accessible through DIS Plus or GT-1. BMW codes determine diagnostic output for BMW DIS Plus or GT-1.