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Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/E90/E91 (2005-2012)/how to reset the check engine light on my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

how to reset the check engine light on my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium30 minutes - 1 hour
3 min read
447 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The check engine light on a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) needs to be reset after addressing the underlying issue.

Repair Time
30 minutes - 1 hour

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems to avoid shocks or shorts.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before performing any work on the vehicle.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Engine performance issues (if any unresolved problems remain)
  • •Diagnostic trouble codes stored in the vehicle's computer
  • •Potential emissions test failure if light remains on

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes** using an OBD-II scanner to identify the reason for the check engine light.
  2. 2Address any underlying issues** that caused the check engine light to illuminate (e.g., replace faulty sensors, fix leaks).
  3. 3Ensure that the battery is charged** and connections are secure, as low battery voltage can affect the vehicle's electronics.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather the necessary tools: OBD-II scanner, battery terminal wrench, and safety glasses.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the ignition is turned off.

2. Connect OBD-II Scanner

  • Locate the OBD-II port, which is usually found under the dashboard on the driver's side.
  • Plug in the OBD-II scanner and turn on the ignition without starting the engine.

3. Reset the Check Engine Light

  • Follow the instructions on your OBD-II scanner to navigate to the option to clear or erase trouble codes.
  • Select the option to reset or clear the check engine light and confirm the action.

4. Disconnect the Battery (if necessary)

  • If the OBD-II scanner does not reset the light, disconnect the negative battery terminal using a battery terminal wrench.
  • Leave it disconnected for approximately 15 minutes to reset the vehicle's electronic systems.
  • Reconnect the negative battery terminal securely.

5. Test Drive

  • Start the engine and allow it to idle for a few minutes.
  • Take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure that the light stays off and the vehicle is running smoothly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Battery terminal wrench
  • Safety glasses

Parts Required

  • None (assuming all underlying issues have been resolved)

Additional Information

Repair Time

30 minutes - 1 hour

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

3 items

Parts

1 items

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