Check Engine Light Service

Houston, Texas

Check Engine Light Service

When the check engine light comes on in your BMW, it's important to get it serviced as soon as possible to avoid potentially costly and dangerous problems. Here are some of the services that a mechanic may need to check when a BMW check engine light comes on:

Oxygen Sensor

The oxygen sensor in your BMW is responsible for measuring the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and adjusting the air-fuel ratio accordingly. If the oxygen sensor fails or becomes damaged, it can cause the check engine light to come on. A mechanic will need to check the sensor and replace it if necessary.

Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is responsible for converting harmful pollutants in the exhaust into less harmful emissions. If the catalytic converter becomes clogged or damaged, it can cause the check engine light to come on. A mechanic will need to check the converter and replace it if necessary.

Mass Airflow Sensor

The mass airflow sensor in your BMW measures the amount of air entering the engine and adjusts the fuel injection accordingly. If the sensor fails or becomes damaged, it can cause the check engine light to come on. A mechanic will need to check the sensor and replace it if necessary.

Spark Plugs and Ignition Coils

The spark plugs and ignition coils in your BMW are responsible for igniting the fuel in the engine. If they fail or become damaged, it can cause the check engine light to come on. A mechanic will need to check the plugs and coils and replace them if necessary.

Vacuum Leaks

A vacuum leak in your BMW can cause a variety of issues, including a check engine light. A mechanic will need to check for leaks in the vacuum system and repair them if necessary.

Fuel System

The fuel system in your BMW is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine. If there is a problem with the fuel system, it can cause the check engine light to come on. A mechanic will need to check the fuel pump, fuel filter, and fuel injectors to ensure that they are working properly.

EGR Valve

The EGR (Exhaust Gas Re-circulation) valve in your BMW is responsible for recirculating some of the exhaust gases back into the engine to reduce emissions. If the EGR valve becomes clogged or fails, it can cause the check engine light to come on. A mechanic will need to check the valve and replace it if necessary.

Thermostat

The thermostat in your BMW regulates the temperature of the engine by controlling the flow of coolant. If the thermostat becomes stuck or fails, it can cause the engine to overheat and the check engine light to come on. A mechanic will need to check the thermostat and replace it if necessary.

Transmission

If the check engine light is flashing, it could indicate a problem with the transmission in your BMW. A mechanic will need to check the transmission fluid level and condition, and may need to perform additional diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the issue.

Electrical System

The electrical system in your BMW controls many of the vehicle's functions, including the check engine light. If there is a problem with the electrical system, it can cause the check engine light to come on. A mechanic will need to check the battery, alternator, and other electrical components to ensure that they are working properly.

If your check engine light came on, make an appointment for TMJ Bimmers for one of our certified BMW mechanics to find out what is causing your check engine light to come on and what repairs are needed to keep you on the road.

Blinking check engine light 

If the check engine light is blinking while you are driving, you should immediately pull over and turn off the car.  A blinking check engine light indicates that there is a serious problem with the car's engine or emissions control system, and continuing to drive the car could cause further damage. Continuing to drive the car could cause further damage. It is not safe to continue driving the car if the check engine light is blinking, so make arrangements to have the car towed to your local mechanic shop. Ignoring the problem could lead to further damage to the car's engine or emissions control system, which could be more costly to repair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about BMW Check Engine Light:

1. What does it mean when the Check Engine Light comes on in my BMW?

  • The Check Engine Light (CEL) is an indicator that there's a potential issue with your BMW's engine or emissions system. It could range from minor issues to more significant problems.

2. Should I be concerned if the Check Engine Light is on?

  • While some issues may be minor, it's essential not to ignore the Check Engine Light. It's a signal that your BMW's on board diagnostics system has detected a problem, and prompt attention can prevent more severe issues.

3. Can I continue driving my BMW with the Check Engine Light on?

  • If the light is steady and not flashing, it's generally safe to drive your BMW, but it's recommended to have it inspected at your earliest convenience. If the light is flashing, it indicates a more severe problem, and you should avoid driving and seek immediate attention.

4. Can I reset the Check Engine Light on my own?

  • Yes, but in order to reset this light on your own, you will need a specialty scan tool to do so though it is not recommended. Instead, it's crucial to address the underlying issue causing the light to come on. Simply resetting the light without fixing the problem won't resolve the issue.

5. What are common reasons for the Check Engine Light to come on in a BMW?

  • Common triggers include issues with the oxygen sensors, catalytic converter, ignition coils, spark plugs, and the mass airflow sensor. However, the range of possible issues is extensive, so diagnostic testing is necessary for an accurate assessment.

6. How can I identify the specific problem triggering the Check Engine Light?

  • Your local independent BMW repair shop will have an OBD-II scanner that can be used to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from your BMW's onboard computer. These codes provide information about the specific system or component that requires attention. 

7. Can a loose gas cap trigger the Check Engine Light in my BMW?

  • Yes, something as small as a loose or improperly sealed gas cap can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate. Always ensure that the gas cap is securely tightened after refueling.

8. How much does it cost to diagnose and repair the issue causing the Check Engine Light?

  • The cost varies depending on the specific problem. Diagnostic fees can range, and repair costs will depend on the nature of the issue and whether parts need to be replaced.

9. Will the Check Engine Light turn off on its own?

  • In some cases, the light may turn off if the issue that triggered it is no longer present. However, it's recommended to have the vehicle inspected to ensure that the problem has been resolved.

10. Can I pass a smog test with the Check Engine Light on?

  • In Texas, as in most regions, a vehicle with an illuminated Check Engine Light will not pass a smog test. It's essential to address the issue and clear the light before attempting an emissions test.