One of the well-known vehicle brands on the globe is BMW. They’re popular due to their extravagant vehicles and imaginative innovation. It won’t be surprising that a lot of BMW owners are very proud of their vehicles & want to maintain them so they can keep running smoothly. Resetting the engine light is an essential component of routine maintenance. When your vehicle needs to be worked on/serviced, this light comes on, and it’s important to turn it back on whenever you’re done servicing. It needs to be reset. Plug the OBD2 scanner in your diagnostic tool port of the BMW and turn on your ignition to reset the service engine soon light. Simply go through the diagnostic tool’s menus and select the option to reset the service codes; that’s all there is to it!
How does this BMW Service Engine Soon Lights work?
You might be familiar with BMW Service Engine Soon Light prior to learning how to remove it. Just like the name suggests, this kind of light can be found on the dashboard of a car. This indicator is always on your screen at the back of the steering wheel, but its position might vary slightly depending on the vehicle. This one is always there, along with the speed & fuel status indicators. The service reminder will shine for many different reasons. However, in most cases, it is in charge of providing the driver with information about the vehicle’s condition or error codes. If this light is on, it indicates that your vehicle is unstable, so you should drive it to the centre for scheduled maintenance. The simple fact that the vehicle needs an oil replacement or other regular maintenance is among the regular causes of this SES light coming on.
What causes the light on my service engine to be turned on?
Your service engine soon light can come on for a variety of reasons. The following are some of the reasons why your service engine soon light might illuminate:
1. A Gas Cap is either Missing or Loose
One of the common causes of why this light comes on is a gas cap that is either missing or loose. Your engine may not run well and light up if your gas cap is not properly tightened. Just check the gas cap and see if it’s missing or loose to fix this. This light will go out if it is tightened or replaced.
2. When the Oxygen Sensor is faulty
A bad oxygen sensor is another common cause for the service engine’s soon lights. The oxygen sensors are in charge of sending information about the quantity of oxygen in the exhaust to the computer in your vehicle. It can set off the light and make the engine run lean (with excess air and less fuel) if it isn’t working properly. You will need to get a new oxygen sensor to fix this. If you’re handy with tools, this can be done on your own or by a mechanic. When you decide to change the oxygen sensors on your own, make sure you get one that works with your vehicle.
3. Problems with Your Catalytic Converter
A problem with your catalytic converter is another common issue that could make this light turn on. It is the work of catalytic converters to convert harmful emissions to less harmful ones. It can set off the light and make the engine run rich (with so much fuel & less air) if it isn’t working properly. You will have to take the vehicle to the mechanic to have the issue evaluated in order to fix this. Depending on the seriousness of the problem, they’re likely to either clean it or change the catalytic converters.
- When the level of oil is low: A low oil level can make your engine run less well and make your service engine soon lights turn on. Just check the level of the oil & add if it is low to fix this. If your oil is damaged or dirty, you might also have to change it.
- Services due to vehicle’s components; they all have specific cycles. You will have to fix or change them when they are due so that they run smoothly and efficiently. It would be determined by your previous settings, like the highest mileage you can drive before you change your oil. Typically, you may be required to complete the following: Change the engine oil, filter, spark plugs, and air filter, among other things. It’s a good idea to learn more about how to carry out those aforementioned tasks by yourself. For instance, you can have the knowledge of how to reset your mass airflow sensors in the know-how section.
- Renewal of the Diesel Engine Filters: Some diesel automobiles come equipped with diesel particulate filters. The fuel filter typically has a short lifespan; It must be changed after 125,000 miles. In addition, the indicator will light up to notify you that you have to check & change it if you have traveled this distance.
How to study & Clear Code for Checking BMW’s Engine Lights
The following instruction shows how to diagnose a BMW’s check engine lights. The YOUCANIC Full System Scanner or another OBD-II scanner that can read BMW-specific fault codes is preferred for diagnosing the check engine light on your BMW.
Procedure
1: Find your BMW’s diagnostic ports on the driver’s side; this port is below the dash.
- Connect the scanner to the OBD2 connector. When you press your start buttons without you pressing your brake pedal will turn on the ignition.
- Allow your scanner to start up.
- To study code from the DME Module, press read/enter.
- Upon completion, please record the codes & remove them.
- You can only read & clear code from your ECU, DME, and DDE using this method. If you have other issues, an ordinary OBD2 scanner would not be able to read the codes and clear them.
To put it another way, a standard OBD2 scanner can only read & clear code from your ECU, not the SRS, DSC, EGS Transmission, ABS, Airbag, Stability Control, etc. modules. Keep in mind that while you are able to study the codes, you will not be able to remove them unless the issue that triggered them is resolved. If you don’t address the underlying issue, both the light & the codes will return. In some cases, it returns instantly, while in others, it may take up to two days.
Without a scanner, how can I clear my check engine’s light?
When your car’s “Check Engine” lights turn on, this means that one/more sensors are not working properly. You will have to resolve the issue that initially made the light turn on before you can turn it off. However, there are a few options for clearing your check engine lights on your own if you don’t have OBD scanners. One option is to unplug your battery for thirty seconds before reconnecting it back. This will turn off the check engine lights and reset all of your car’s sensors. However, as it may result in the loss of your radio preset or clock setting, this technique should be used only as the last option. Driving your vehicle at a steady speed for approximately 50 miles is another method for resetting your check engine lights. The check engine light should go out as a result of this, which will enable the sensor to recalibrate.
What signs do the BMW’s Service Engine Soon Lights indicate?
If the trigger is an EVAP-related fault code, the BMW might work well if the check engine light or service engine light stays on soon. Unless the issue is very serious, in that case, you might notice issues with performance like:
- The engine of the BMW fails to start;
- The BMW will not accelerate;
- The vehicle will not move out of limp mode;
- The engine will shake when it is idle.
- The BMW engine overheats;
- There is poor acceleration;
- There is erratic idle;
- The BMW Service Engine Soon light might be on even though there are no obvious performance problems.
Will the BMW’s Service Engine Lights Automatically Reset?
“Yes.” The majority of models, including BMW 325i and 328i, utilize some condition-based maintenance system. When you start your vehicle, each component will check for any unusual conditions. A caution will display to alert the driver to any issue, allowing for prompt adjustment & handling. It would reset on its own as soon as you’re done processing. However, the light might not automatically reset under certain conditions; For instance, the warning light will continue to illuminate even if the oil has been changed, but the indicator has not been reset. To turn it off by this time, you have to reset it. If you’ve checked every part & made sure it’s fixed, yet this warning still comes on, your engine system sensors might be defective. The only options are to take your car to a service centre or request assistance from technicians.
When the BMW’s check engine lights come on, what should I do?
Checking the fuel cap is the 1st step. The CEL will be triggered if the cap is not tight. Adjust it till you can hear a click. If you don’t remember to tighten the fuel cap, the majority of BMWs manufactured after 2005 will also display a separate symbol. If you tightened your gas cap after it became loose, the CEL light would reset on its own in a couple of driving cycles, normally in the span of a little while. Keep a close eye on the temperature of the engine if the BMW drives well. Assuming the BMW is overheating or the oil light is on, quit driving it immediately. If necessary, have it towed. To figure out why the BMW’s check engine light is turned on, you must read fault codes. You can carry out this straightforward procedure by yourself.
Is it possible to drive with this engine light on in my BMW?
When a BMW has a service engine soon light, it means that the On-Board Diagnostics systems have found an issue. The SES lights could be reset by the driver/owner, but if the issue that started wasn’t fixed, it would still come on again. If this issue is not repaired and you ignore the SES light, it could lead to more serious problems like damaging the engine. If the SES light comes on but does not flash, the issue is not urgent & you can drive the BMW as usual. However, you have to look into the problem right away. When the light is blinking, the issue is very serious, & you should immediately take it to the mechanic.
The difference b/w the SES Light & the CEL, as mentioned earlier, is to remind you that you need to go to the auto shop soon for a problem with the vehicle’s maintenance or driving condition. This one is timed with a countdown by some manufacturers. Though it’s a dashboard caution light, it won’t necessitate immediate professional vehicle inspection. Although it is not urgent, that must be completed immediately; the sooner, the better.
Check engine This light’s symbol is more varied and varies depending on the car. Usually, it will be shaped like the engine’s outline. You also have the option of finding it only as “CHECK,” accompanied by an arrow, thunderbolt, etc. Likewise, the indicators will turn yellow. It’s in charge of providing the fault code to indicate motor issues in your vehicle. It will keep an eye on most of the parts and notify you of common problems like The vehicle’s exhaust system failing, necessitating, for instance, a smog check. When the tank is overfilled, the fuel evaporates as the vehicle moves. The warning systems will identify it as a leak, a problem with the catalytic converter, or a problem with your spark plug’s wires. However, these 2-lights might overlap or be slightly different in their warning signs depending on the vehicle model. To ensure prompt handling, please thoroughly investigate your car’s model.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay Attention to this SES light?
Not only do many people want to know how to reset the SES light, but they also want to know what will happen if it is ignored. Driving the BMW to a service center and allowing the technicians to diagnose and resolve the issue as fast as you can is preferable. They will provide you with numerous repair options. The delay happens only in situations of force majeure. Wasting time will not also deactivate your car, as previously stated. Find out what brought the indicators to life first. It only takes some seconds to fix a problem with a loose fuel tank cap. However, in the event of a more severe damaged engine, you will be contributing to the destruction of your vehicle when you leave it on for a long. Imagine the crack in your motor. The motor’s crack gets bigger as time goes on, causing complete damage. No one wishes to be in this situation. It’s obvious that ignoring it can only exacerbate the situation. You’ll have a lot of time and money fixing it from there. Therefore, you are advised to please take it to the service centre as soon as you can.
Frequently Asked Questions – Service Engine Soon Light Reset for BMW
Can I drive my BMW with the check engine’s lights on?
While a check engine lights flash shows that the car’s engine is in a severe issue and requires immediate service, a steady glow typically indicates something less serious. We strongly advise you not to drive your BMW if the check engine light is on or flashing, and you should plan for BMW service right away.
Why are the engine lights on when there seems to be nothing wrong?
On the off chance that nothing is by all accounts acting unusual, it is likely safe to use it until you’re able to take it for repair. If your gas cap is a bit loose after filling up, the light may occasionally come on, or it can indicate that you need to check the catalytic converters.
How long do you need to drive before having clear check engine lights?
To ensure the check engine light doesn’t return, it’s suggested that you drive the vehicle 30 – 100 miles. Because the various sensors require time to recalibrate, this enables the Drive Cycle” of the car to be reset.
Is it necessary to reset the check engine lights by hand?
Even after you have fixed the issue with your car, your check engine light may still not turn off. If that occurs, you will need to reset your light by hand. Turning the ignition three times straight up is one option! After that, drive to test whether the light will come on.
Does removing the battery erase codes?
The computer’s memory will not be cleared of any codes for stored OBD2 code if the battery is disconnected. Using a scanner & the code’s clear functions is the only way to remove the codes.
When the service light comes on, how many miles are advisable I drive it?
If the oil lights come on, try to get your car checked out as soon as possible by an experienced mechanic. However, keep in mind that moving around a little more will not harm anything. In most cases, you need to drive 500 miles or about two weeks for flashing oil lights to become a real issue.
What do we mean by a solid yellow CEL?
The constant yellow light is instructing you to examine the situation and resolve the minor problem as quickly as possible, although it is typically not a serious problem. The flashing lights indicate that the engine of your vehicle is misfiring, & you should immediately investigate the issue.
How can I disable the service engine soon indicator?
It indicates that you will soon need routine maintenance. Taking your vehicle to a mechanic to have them examine it is the simplest way to repair this light. The SES light usually means that the oil needs to be changed or that liquids need to be topped off.
Can I manually remove the check engine lightS?
The equivalent solution for a car’s check engine light is the on-off method. Through a reboot, it forces your computer to restore its saved condition. Simply insert the key into your ignition, activate it for one to two seconds, then deactivate it for one to two seconds. This step should be done three to four times.
Why is the engine light on when it looks like there’s nothing wrong?
It should be safe to drive until you’re able to take it to a mechanic if nothing appears to be acting strange. If the gas cap is a little loose after filling up, the light may occasionally come on. Or, then again, it could mean your exhaust system should be investigated.
Conclusion – Service Engine Soon Light Reset for BMW
If you drive a BMW, the dashboard light that says “service engine soon” may have let you know. This light, which is a component of the vehicle’s emission control systems, illuminates when the vehicle is about to pass an emission test or if there’s an issue with the system. Plug in your OBD2 scanner, then selects the “Erase Codes” option to clear the light and any error codes that aren’t really a problem. Just ensure you read every code before you wipe, or else you may miss an important underlying problem.