Is your BMW check engine light flashing on the dashboard? Word of the wise: never overlook it. The check engine light on BMW is a kind of warning system. It shows that there could be issues within your vehicle’s engine or emissions system requiring immediate auto repair.
Whenever you see the check engine light BMW flashing, don’t wait around for more severe problems to surface. Let’s explore the common causes of why the check engine light flashes, the check engine light’s meaning, and what you should do when you see the light flashing.
When it comes to BMW-related repairs and maintenance, you can always count on Bluewater Performance to help you keep your ride at peak performance.
But first, let’s see what the check engine light means.
What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?
All cars, including BMW x3, BMW x5, and others, have a check engine symbol light that indicates the state of the vehicle’s engine. However, the light doesn’t provide specific details about the problem. It is only a general warning sign, prompting you to take action.
Simply put, the BMW light meaning is: have your vehicle checked!
Minor issues like a loose gas cap and serious problems with the engine or emissions system can both trigger the light.
The Most Common Causes for BMW Check Engine Light
Wondering, “Why is my BMW check engine light on?”
There is no specific message when the check engine light blinks. Instead, it means you need to contact a BMW repair service provider.
Here are the common check engine light causes for your reference:
- Loose, damaged, or missing gas cap
- Issues with oxygen sensors
- Faulty mass airflow sensor (disrupting air-fuel mixture)
- Issues with the catalytic converter
- Misfiring due to faulty ignition components
- Issues with the emission-related components
- Air leaks
- Erroneous engine coolant temperature sensor
- Problem with the throttle position sensor
- Fault with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve
BMW Check Engine Light Codes You Should Know About
When the check engine light turns on, check out the diagnostic trouble codes or BMW check engine light codes to pinpoint the specific issue. BMWs are equipped with an onboard diagnostics system (OBD-II) that stores these codes. These check engine codes provide valuable insights into the underlying problem (warning about what usually works but is now faulty).
You’ll need an OBD-II scanner or a code reader to read the codes.
Simply plug the device into the OBD-II port under the dashboard, and that’s it!
Each code represents a specific malfunction within the engine or emissions system, such as:
- P0300: random/multiple cylinder misfire detected
- P0171: system too lean bank 1
- P0420: catalyst system efficiency below threshold
- And so on…
Your BMW auto mechanic will help you understand these codes in depth.
What Does A Flashing Check Engine Light Mean?
If you notice the check engine light flashing when driving your BMW, the message is different than usual. Flashing lights indicate a severe and potentially damaging issue with your vehicle. In comparison, a steadily lit light signals a general problem.
So, what does a flashing check engine light mean?
Simply put: a flashing check engine light means that your car demands immediate attention!
This could be due to an active misfire in one or more cylinders of the engine.
You must stop driving around as soon as you see the light flashing.
Pull over, turn off the engine, have the vehicle towed, and get an expert to take a look at your ride!
What to Do if Your BMW Check Engine Light Comes On
Now there can be numerous scenarios with your BMW dashboard indicator lights.
Now that you know what BMW check engine light means in general, let’s dive into some specific cases to help you understand what you must do:
- Check Engine Light Is On (But Not Flashing): This indicates a potential issue, but not too severe. Reduce speed, avoid heavy acceleration, and get your car checked by a mechanic to identify the problem.
- Flashing Check Engine Light: In this case, you’ve got a severe problem, like a misfire. Pull over, turn off the engine, and have a mechanic look at your ride immediately.
- Flashing Alongside Other Warning Lights: In this case, stop safely and avoid driving until you have an expert look at your ride.
- No Other Visible Problems: If the check engine light comes on, but your car seems to be doing okay, this could be a minor issue. Better not to ignore it until it becomes serious.
- After Refueling: If it happens shortly after refueling, check the gas cap. If loose, tighten it. If this doesn’t fix the light, you need to get your car checked.
- During Rain or Humidity: Moisture may trigger the light, but if it persists even when the car is dry, have someone look at your ride.
Is It Safe To Drive Your BMW With The Check Engine Light On?
In a word: no!
Driving with the BMW check engine light on is a bad idea. Even if your car is running fine, the light indicates a potential issue that could worsen over time (check the BMW check engine light symbols for more details). Your best bet is to have your BMW inspected by a professional as soon as you can to diagnose the problem, ensuring safe and reliable driving.
How Do You Reset The BMW Check Engine Light?
If you’re sure that the check engine light has turned on due to a loose gas cap or sensor malfunction, you can go for a BMW check engine light reset. You must understand the full extent of the BMW check engine light meaning, though. Here’s how you can do so:
- Locate the diagnostic port under the dashboard
- Connect your OBD-II code reader to the port
- Read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
- Clear the codes with the diagnostic tool to reset the check engine light
- Check if the light is off
What If My BMW Check Engine Light Comes Back On?
If you had a BMW check engine light but no message, and you decided to reset it, but it came back on, you probably have something wrong with your ride. It’s not a temporary issue as you anticipated earlier (or maybe you misread the code).
In this case, you must stop and seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic. Only an expert can accurately diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs.
Don’t ignore the light – saying that you love your car is not enough. Show it!
Hopefully, by now, you know what to do if the “BMW check engine light comes on and off.”
Check Engine Light Service BMW – Reach Out To Bluewater Performance
Looking for the most reliable local check engine light service near you in Denver, CO? We’ve got your back! At Bluewater Performance, cars are our passion. We are enthusiastic members of the automotive community dedicated to providing top-notch service.
Notice your BMW check engine light flashing? Bring it over to us. We don’t engage in high-pressure sales and will move ahead with immediate fixes. If you’re on a tight budget, we’ll list non-urgent concerns so you can pace yourself.
Plus, all of our work is covered by an impressive 3-year, 36,000-mile nationwide warranty!
Reach out to us now, and let us fix your ride for you!
FAQ
How many miles can you drive with the check engine light?
The BMW check engine light indicates that there is something wrong with the vehicle. It’s best to have your car checked immediately to avoid further damage. Driving with the car with the light on for an extended period can be very risky. Don’t test your car’s resolve!
Can I drive my BMW with the yellow engine light on?
The yellow glow of the check engine light on BMW suggests that there’s a minor issue with your ride. You can drive cautiously to a service center for inspection (better not to risk it). You should get it checked promptly to prevent any serious problems.
Why is my BMW engine light on but nothing wrong?
Even if nothing seems seriously wrong, the BMW check engine light points towards a potential issue, perhaps minor at the moment. If you continue to drive like this, the issue may deteriorate. Have your BMW checked by a professional to ensure that there are no underlying issues.
Does BMW check engine light come on for an oil change?
Usually, the check engine light on BMW isn’t related to routine maintenance like an oil change. Whenever the light starts blinking, this means that there’s a serious problem with the engine or emissions system. Reach out to a trusted mechanic immediately to diagnose the specific issue.