Faults · Engine light
BMW engine light is on
An amber engine symbol lit up in the instrument cluster while you were driving. Most of the time you can carefully drive on, but have the cause checked soon.
In short
An amber engine light means you can usually keep driving, but the fault should be checked soon. A red light means you shouldn't drive the car. If the light flashes or the car judders, drive gently and stop somewhere safe. BemuFIX diagnostics cost from €49, credited if we do the repair.
What should I do right now?
- Check the colour: amber means have it checked soon, red means don't drive
- If the light flashes, or the car judders or loses power, drive gently and stop somewhere safe
- See if the iDrive screen or the instrument cluster shows a further message
- Book diagnostics or ask Laura how to proceed
Common causes on a BMW
- Spark plugs or ignition coils (petrol engines)
- Lambda or other sensors
- Exhaust gas recirculation or the particulate filter (diesels)
- Fuel supply or pressure
- An intake air leak, or a fuel cap that isn't closed properly
Why a basic code reader isn't enough
Cheap OBD readers only see codes related to engine emissions. With BMW's diagnostic tool we can reach every control unit in the car, such as the gearbox, ABS and airbags, and we also see intermittent faults.
The light went off by itself?
The fault code usually stays in memory even if the light goes off. It shows up in diagnostics, and that's often exactly where the cause of an intermittent fault is found.
Frequently asked
Can I drive my BMW with the engine light on?
With an amber light you usually can, but have it checked soon. With a red light you shouldn't drive. If the light flashes or the car judders, stop somewhere safe.
How much does reading the fault codes cost?
Diagnostics at BemuFIX cost from €49, credited if we do the repair.
Why did the light go off by itself?
Some faults come and go. The fault code usually stays in memory, so the cause shows up in diagnostics.