Electrical Systems - Other Auxiliary Equipment Faults and Problems

M73 Secondary Air Pump Circuit Rewiring

Model:
BMW E38_750iLA with M73 engine produced between August 1998 and October 1998
Complaint:
Due to the wiring for the secondary air circuit at the Engine Control Modules being reversed, the
illumination of the check engine light may result causing the fault FC 79 (4F) Undefined.
Remedy:
Utilize the Service Menu of the Dealer Communication System, and based upon the response of the
system either proceed with corrective action, or take no action at all.
If action is necessary the wiring in module connector number 4 of DME I pin 3 and DME II pin 31 must be
swapped.
Reprogramming of Engine Control Module May Not Be Possible
Model:
BMW E38 740i/iLA with M62 engine and DSC 3 produced as of September 1998
BMW E38 _ 540i/iA/iTA with M62 engine and DSC 3 produced as of September 1998
BMW E39 _ 528i/iA/iTA with M52 engine and DSC 3 produced as of September 1998
Complaint:
Due to the DSC 3 control module troubling the communication path between the DIS/MODIC and the
DME and/or EGS module, the reprogramming procedure is unable to perform and the following message
is displayed: Programming cannot be performed correctly! Test code 002400 Repeat programming if
necessary.
Remedy:
Before starting the programming operation the power supply to the DSC 3 module must be removed.
Vacuum Hose to Secondary Air Non-Return Valve
Model:
BMW E46 323i/iA, 328i/iA produced between April 1998 and July 1998
Complaint:
The vacuum hose going to the Secondary Air Non-Return Valve may be wrongly routed. Consequently if
this hose connects with the exhaust system it may set off the following faults may set within the Engine
Control Module (ECM/DME):
-Fault Code 245 (F5 hex) Flow rate secondary air rate too slow bank 1
-Fault Code 245 (F6 hex) Flow rate secondary air rate too slow bank 2
Remedy:
Utilize the Service Menu of the Dealer Communication System, and based upon the response of the
system either proceed with corrective action, or take no action at all.
If action is necessary then check the condition and routing of the vacuum hose going to the non-return
valve on all affected vehicles if required reroute. If fault code 245 or 246 are set in the DME the vacuum
hose going to the non-return valve will need to be replaced if it is damaged.
Motronic M1.1 Circuit Suppression
Model:
BMW E32 (735i), BMW E30, BMW E24, Equipped with M1.1 Fuel injection- 1987 and 1988 Model Years

(prior to 5.88 production)

Complaint:
M1.1 control unit durability can be affected by migrant voltage surges from the Check Engine light
circuit.
Remedy:
The following Service Action is necessary: Install suppression diode harness (P/N 88 88 2 000 100)
Idle Mixture Check and Adjustment (after major engine repair)
Model:
BMW M3, BMW M5, BMW M6
Complaint:
M3, M5 and M6 cars that do not have CO-screws on the exhaust manifold pipes may need the idle
mixture checked and adjusted after majoe engine repair.
Remedy:
Follow this procedure to ensure the idle mixture is correctly adjusted if necessary.
-Engine is at operating temperature; the oil needs to be at least 60 degrees C or 140 degrees F.
-The ignition timing and valve clearance are correct.
-The plate synchronization is correct
-The idle speed is correct.
-All electrical consumers and air conditioner must be switched off.
-Connect the digital mixture measurement unit (integrator voltage measuring unit for 318i-P/N 88 88 6 126
400) to engine diagnosis socket (BMW service tester cable is connected to digital mixture measurement
unit).
-Start engine.
-Flashing of the red LED at regular intervals indicates normal operation of the oxygen sensor.
-Read integrator voltage on LCD display. If necessary, adjust to a value of 6 plus/minus 3 volts at the
airflow meter bypass screen while the red LED pulsates at a regular interval.
-If the red LED stays on continuously, the engine idle speed mixture is too lean, or the oxygen sensor is
defective.
-If the red LED stays off continuously, the engine idle speed mixture is too rich.
-Adjust the idle mixture by carefully turning the airflow meter bypass screw to a value of 6 plus/minus 3
volts, until the LED flashes at a regular interval.
-Check the engine idle speed and integrator voltage.
Idle Control Valve Binding No Start
Model:
BMW E36 with M44 engine
Complaint:
Due to a binding idle control valve the engine may not start or will only start when the accelerator pedal is
depressed making the throttle plate open. This is caused by the air gap between the rotary slide valve
and the idle control valve housing being too small which causes the valve to bind in the closed position.
When this happens the throttle plate by-pass air is restricted during cranking causing the engine not to
start or very difficult to start.
Remedy:
A new style idle control valve part number 13 41 1 435 846 should be installed.
Whistling Noise from Idle Control Valve
Model:
BMW E36 with M44 engine
Complaint:

The idle control valve can emit a whistling noise when the engine is at idle. This is due to adverse
tolerances between the idle control valve housing and the rotary slide valve. Remedy:
A new style idle control valve part number 13 41 1 435 846 should be installed.
Relays
Model:
All BMW
Complaint:
If a relay sticks in the closed position after the ignition is turned off the following complaints could arise:
-The auxiliary fan continues running.
-A/C heater blower motor continues running.
-Fog lights and/or headlights stay on.
-The battery goes dead overnight.
-The rear window defogger stays on.
This is due to the battery voltage still being present when the ignition is turned off. Apart from the auxiliary
fan the components need their control switch left on for the situation to occur. The auxiliary fan will
automatically continue running in this condition.
Remedy:
Replace the defective relay.
Vibration Resistant Battery
Model:
BMW E36 Convertible
Complaint:
Not only is the E36 convertible battery an energy source it is also a vibration damper. The battery also
has a special battery tray with integrated vibration absorber.
Remedy:
If the battery needs to be replaced a vibration resistant one must be installed.

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

All owner read, some remedies and fixes for E38's

All information was copied and pasted.

Relays
Model:
All BMW
Complaint:
If a relay sticks in the closed position after the ignition is turned off the following complaints could arise:
-The auxiliary fan continues running.
-A/C heater blower motor continues running.
-Fog lights and/or headlights stay on.
-The battery goes dead overnight.

-The rear window defogger stays on.

This is due to the battery voltage still being present when the ignition is turned off. Apart from the auxiliary
fan the components need their control switch left on for the situation to occur. The auxiliary fan will
automatically continue running in this condition.
Remedy:
Replace the defective relay.

Reprogramming of Engine Control Module May Not Be Possible

Model:
BMW E38 740i/iLA with M62 engine and DSC 3 produced as of September 1998
BMW E38 _ 540i/iA/iTA with M62 engine and DSC 3 produced as of September 1998
BMW E39 _ 528i/iA/iTA with M52 engine and DSC 3 produced as of September 1998
Complaint:
Due to the DSC 3 control module troubling the communication path between the DIS/MODIC
and the DME and/or EGS module, the reprogramming procedure is unable to perform and the
following message is displayed: Programming cannot be performed correctly! Test code
002400 Repeat programming if necessary.
Remedy:
Before starting the programming operation the power supply to the DSC 3 module must be
removed.

M73 Secondary Air Pump Circuit Rewiring

Model:
BMW E38_750iLA with M73 engine produced between August 1998 and October 1998
Complaint:
Due to the wiring for the secondary air circuit at the Engine Control Modules being reversed, the
illumination of the check engine light may result causing the fault FC 79 (4F) Undefined.
Remedy:
Utilize the Service Menu of the Dealer Communication System, and based upon the response of the
system either proceed with corrective action, or take no action at all.
If action is necessary the wiring in module connector number 4 of DME I pin 3 and DME II pin 31 must be
swapped.

THERMOSAT SOFTWARE &OXYGEN SENSOR/MISFIRE REPROGRAMMING

MODELS AFFECTED:
E38-740I/IL with M62/M62TU produced 4/97-8/99
E39-540I/IA with M62/M62TU produced 4/97-8/99
FAULT:
The check engine light is illuminated and stored in the Engine Control Module(ECM/DME)
are one or all of the following fault codes due to a software error:
FC 10-02 sensor pre catalyst (bank 1)
FC 12-02 sensor post catalyst (bank 1)

 FC 18-02 sensor pre catalyst (bank 2)

FC 20_02 sensor post catalyst(bank 2)
Various misfire faults
CAUSE:
DME calibration software.
SOLUTION:
Check the DME program number& if necessary the DME must be reprogrammed.
Note:
When ever any of the previously listed faults are set, there is no need to replace the oxygen
sensor(s) with this programming update.

REPROGRAMMING OF ECM MAY NOT BE POSSIBLE

MODELS AFFECTED:
E38-740i/iLA with M62 engine and DSC3 produced from 9/98
E39-540i/iA/ITA with M62 engine &DSC3 produced from 9/98
E39-528i/iA/ITA with M52 engine& DSC3 produced from 9/98
FAULT:
Reprogramming procedure can not be performed. This error message is displayed: "Programming
cannot be performed correctly! Test code 002400 repeat programming if necessary."
CAUSE:
The communication path between the DIS/MODIC & DME and/or EGS Modules are disturbed by the
DSC3 control module.
SOLUTION:
Remove the power supply to the DSC3 module before beginning the programming operation.
Remove the following fuses to do so:
MODEL FUSE LOCATION
E38-740 17 Engine compartment
E39-540i/iA/iTa 17.31 Glove box
E39-528i/iA/iTA 17.31 Glove box

INCREASE IDLE SPEED BY REPROGRAMMING ECM/DME(M5.2)

MODELS AFFECTED:
E38-740i/iLA with M62 engine prod 12/95-4/97
E39-540i/iA with M62 engine prod 3/96-4/97
FAULT:
Engine seems to stumble & engine idle speed appears to be low especially with the A/C off, steering
wheel turned fully to the right or left or when the reverse gear is selected with automatic transmission.
CAUSE:
Increased load requirements from steering/transmission.
SOLUTION:
Reprogram the DME control module using CD P15.0 OR higher. This will increase engine idling
speed by approximately 100 RPM

ASC LAMP ON, FAULT CODES

MODELS AFFECTED: E38(7 series), E39 (5 series) with M62, or M73 engine.
FAULT: The ASC lamp is on and no fault codes are stored. If the under hood diagnostic connector is
removed the ASC lamp goes off.
CAUSE: Incorrect under hood OBD cap fitted
SOLUTION: Install correct OBD connector cap (part number 12 52 1 703 202).The part number is
inscribed into the OBD cap moulding
ABS WARNING LIGHT COMES ON
MODELS AFFECTED: All with ABS
FAULT:
ABS warning light comes on intermittently. Normal troubleshooting procedures find no defect.
CAUSE:
If cars have recently had two new tires, or snow tires put on. Sometimes when the car is driven over 50
MPH.
SOLUTION:
Check all four tires on the car, make sure they are the same brand, style, and size. Check if any of the
new tires have substantially more tread than the rest. These differences may cause enough variance in
rolling diameters to confuse the ABS control unit, which intern gives a false signal to the ABS warning
light.

ABS, ASC, AND ASC+T MALFUNCTION

MODELS AFFECTED:
All models equipped with ABS,ASC OR ASC+T
FAULT:
Any of the ABS ASC and ASC+T systems inoperative, intermittently inoperative, or illuminating the
warning lamp.
CAUSE:
All BMW'S with slip control systems use 4 wheel speed sensors which monitor each wheels speed of
rotation with a high accuracy. The system control unit uses this information to calculate a vehicle speed.
In this way it detects wheel speed variation. If the inputs vary from each other by a certain amount, the
control unit is not able to do the calculation reliably (plausibility fault) and takes its self off-line as a safety
precaution(fail-safe).This can be because the wheels and tires are non-approved parts
and therefore do not agree with the system.
SOLUTION:
Make sure the vehicle is fitted with BMW approved wheels and tires. Then do further diagnostic testing to
check if fault is resolved
ENGINE APPEARS TO MISFIRE OR STUMBLE INTERMITINTLY
MODELS AFFECTED:
5 Series(E34), 7 series(E32), 8 series(E31) all equipped with ACS.
FAULT:
Under certain specific conditions an apparent engine misfire or bucking may occur. This is not an engine
misfire.
CAUSE:
Short (less than 100 milliseconds) fuel injection cut-off, as a result of MSR (engine drag torque control)
regulation. This is a normal ASC function that may occur under these conditions: -The vehicle is equipped
with ASC -Vehicle speed between 45 and 60 MPH -A rough road surface (e.g. potholes, railroad tracks)
-Light throttle(accelerator pedal only depressed 1/8) -ASC not switched off.

SOLUTION:
Replace the ASC control unit. no further diagnosis of the ABS/ASC system should be necessary.

MICROPROCESSOR CONTROLLED ABS(uC-ABS)STORES ERRONEOUS INTERNAL DEFECT

FAULT
MODELS AFFECTED:
7series(E32)-vehicles produced 06/91 and later, equipped with M30 engine. 5 series (E34)-vehicles
produced 9/91 and later.
FAULT:
Increasing number of uC-ABS control units are being returned for showing internal defect during
troubleshooting and readout of the fault memory. In most cases the fault is erroneous.
CAUSE:
If the ignition is switched on with the cap of the D100 diagnostic connector removed, the erroneous fault
can be set by a low voltage condition on the TTD lead to this control unit.
SOLUTION: Erase the fault in the uC-ABS fault memory, while the diagnostic module is still connected and the ignition
is switched on. -Before disconnecting the diagnostic cable, switch off the ignition -Reconnect the cap for
the D100 diagnostic connector, then switch on the ignition again. -Do not replace control unit.
ASC LAMP ON, FAULT CODES
MODELS AFFECTED:
E38(7 series), E39 (5 series) with M62, or M73 engine.
FAULT:
The ASC lamp is on and no fault codes are stored. If the under hood diagnostic connector is removed the
ASC lamp goes off.
CAUSE:
Incorrect under hood OBD cap fitted.
SOLUTION: I
nstall correct OBD connector cap (part number 12 52 1 703 202).The part number is inscribed into the
OBD cap moulding
ABS WARNING LIGHT COMES ON
MODELS AFFECTED: A
ll with ABS
FAULT:
ABS warning light comes on intermittently. Normal troubleshooting procedures find no defect.
CAUSE:
If cars have recently had two new tires, or snow tires put on. Sometimes when the car is driven over 50
MPH.
SOLUTION:
Check all four tires on the car, make sure they are the same brand, style, and size. Check if any of the
new tires have substantially more tread than the rest. These differences may cause enough variance in
rolling diameters to confuse the ABS control unit, which intern gives a false signal to the ABS warning
light.

ABS, ASC, AND ASC+T MALFUNCTION

MODELS AFFECTED:
All models equipped with ABS,ASC OR ASC+T
FAULT:
Any of the ABS ASC and ASC+T systems inoperative, intermittently inoperative, or illuminating the
warning lamp.
CAUSE:
All BMW'S with slip control systems use 4 wheel speed sensors which monitor each wheels speed of
rotation with a high accuracy. The system control unit uses this information to calculate a vehicle speed.
In this way it detects wheel speed variation. If the inputs vary from each other by a certain amount, the
control unit is not able to do the calculation reliably (plausibility fault) and takes its self off-line as a safety
precaution(fail-safe).This can be because the wheels and tires are non-approved parts
and therefore do not agree with the system.
SOLUTION:
Make sure the vehicle is fitted with BMW approved wheels and tires. Then do further diagnostic testing to
check if fault is resolved.

ABS, ASC/DSC, ECM FAULTS

MODELS AFFECTED:
E38(7 series)
FAULTS:
The wire harness can get damaged. ABS, ASC/DSC ECM faults show:
- 66 wheel sensor signal supply voltage
- 67 intermittent interference
- 5,6,7 wheel speed (plausibility)
- 30 left rear wheel sensor
CAUSE:
The sharp edges on the tilt sensor(NAG) bracket damage the wire. The leak diagnosis pump(LDP) and
the wire harness from the left rear wheel sensor is routed through the slot in the tilt sensor(NAG) bracket.
SOLUTION:
Remove the tilt(NAG) sensor, located behind the wheel arch in the left side of the trunk. Tape the sharp
edges of the tilt sensor bracket with electrical tape to prevent further damage to the wire harness. Repair
the wire harness and reinstall the tilt sensor. Using the DIS tester clear the fault codes
Quality Monitoring M44/M62 Camshaft Sensor
Model:
E36 BMW 318i/A/ti with M44 engine produced February 1996 to February 1997
E39 BMW 540i/iA with M62 engine produced February 1996 to February 1997
E38 BMW 740i/iA/iL with M62 engine produced February 1996 to February 1997
BMW Z3 with M44 engine produced February 1996 to February 1997
Complaint:
The above listed models need to replaced with a new sensor and the old sensor must be sent back to the
Warranty Parts Return Centre with a copy of any of the DME fault codes if they are present.
Based on the results of the Dealer Communications System the following procedure must be followed:
Remedy:
The customers permission and signature must be obtained before the procedure begins.
Read and print out DME fault codes if present. Ignore the camshaft sensor fault codes if they are present.

Clear all fault codes stored in the DME

Replace the camshaft sensor as outlined in the repair manual group.

Oil Pressure Warning Light Comes On

Model:
BMW E38 with M60, M62 and M73 Engines
Complaint:
During production an oil pressure switch wiring harness was installed which could let water into the
electrical connector, which in turn will cause corrosion at the oil pressure switch pin connections. As a
consequence of this corrosion the engine oil pressure warning light will come on, even if the oil pressure
is fine.
Remedy:
The oil pressure switch and the oil pressure switch wiring harness needs to be replaced. This procedure
will apply to vehicles produced before January 1996

Evaporative Emission Control On Board Diagnostic System

Model:
E36 BMW 318i and BMW Z3 with M44 produced from January 1997
E36 BMW 328i produced from October 1995
E36 BMW M3 produced from March 1996
E38 BMW 740i/iL and BMW 750iL produced from May 1997
Complaint:
The check engine lamp is illuminated, and one or more of the following faults are set in the Engine
Control Module (DME):
-In the M52 Engine the complaints include the tank venting system, minor leak (Code 251), Tank
ventilation (Code 252), Shut-off valve, activated charcoal filter, jammed shut (Code 253) or Tank venting
system, major leak (Code 254).
-In the M44, M62 or M73 Engine the complaints include the tank venting system, major leak (Code 94),
Shut off valve, activated charcoal filter, jammed shut (Code 96) or Tank venting system, minor leak
(Code 97).
Remedy:
The check engine lamp will only be illuminated if the fault is present during two consecutive drive cycles.
To complete a check of these systems the vehicle needs to run in a way that allows these functions to
work fully. Any attempt to duplicate the specific driving condition will be unsuccessful, thus it is
recommended that the test modules through BMW specific test tools are utilized. One driving cycle
includes engine start up - drive - engine shutoff and will test the:
-Evaporative system component functional check
-Evaporative system leak detection
-Tank venting/shutoff valve operation
-Monitoring catalytic converter efficiency
-Secondary air induction operation
If a fault occurs due to a major leak or a minor leak being present then check if the fuel filler cap has been
installed correctly. This can be easily detected if the cap can be easily pulled off. To clear the fault
properly install the cap, printout the fault information, clear the fault, select service functions, select DME

system test, select 3- Leakage diagnosis, tank venting system.

If the fault returns the system needs to be checked for further leaks using the Evaporative System Leak
Test Pool with an A/C leak detector.
If NO leak is detected the following component checks need to be carried out:
-Check the fuel filler gasket has not been damaged.
-Check operation of purge valve.
-Check purge valve using a hand held vacuum pump to check the valve can hold a vacuum.
-Check the o-ring is properly installed.
-Check for any broken hose fittings in the expansion tank.
-Check the operation of the shut-off valve.
-Check the shut-off valve has been correctly installed into the charcoal canister.
-Check routing of hose going to the fuel tank pressure sensor. If the hose is pinched it should be rerouted
or shortened.
If the fault occurs through the shut-off valve the following must be checked:
-The routing of the hose going to the fuel tank pressure sensor. If the hose is pinched it should be
rerouted or shortened.
-The operation of the Shut-off Valve, Purge Valve and Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor should be tested.
-Remove the shut-off valve from the charcoal canister and look for obstructions which do not allow the
valve to shut correctly.

Stabilant 22A Electrical Contact Enhancer

Model:
All BMW
Complaint:
Connectors which carry low current are more likely to form deposits which affect the resistance of the
circuit through the plug connector. Depending upon the particular circuit these deposits can cause
malfunctions and consequently activate warning lamps and check control indicators.
Remedy:
Part replacement can temporarily stop the problem.
If the connector is the problem then without disconnecting the connector measure the resistance of the
circuit running through the connector to make sure the connector has a high resistance. A good resistor
will have close to 0 ohms resistance.
Visually examine the male and female terminals in the connector housing by removing them. Look at the
integrity of the wire crimps, and in some male terminals the integrity of the weld of the male pin to the
terminal. Then reinstall.
With a zero residue electrical contact cleaner liberally spray the male and female connectors, and allow
the air to dry.
Apply Stabilant 22A to both male and female terminals so they are saturated, and reconnect the
connectors while they are still wet. When the Stabilant 22A dries it will leave a thin coating of polymer film
which is conductive between mating surfaces, and is non-conductive between adjacent pins. It can also
prevent the formation of more harmful deposits.

Service Action to Recode General Module

Model:
BMW E38 (7 series), BMW E39 (5 series). Vehicles produced from August 1998 to November

1998
Complaint:
If the boot lock is set to horizontal or Valet position, a discharged battery could result when the
vehicle is parked. This is due to the vehicle electrical system neglecting to go into consumer cut
off.
Remedy:
Utilize the Service Menu of the Dealer Communication System, and based upon the response
of the system either proceed with corrective action, or take no action at all.

Faulty Ignition/Starter Switch

Model:
BMW 5 Series (E39), BMW 7 Series (E38)
Complaint:
A possibility of poor contact in the ignition/starter switch through production tolerances could lead to
problems starting the vehicle at a later date.
Remedy:
Utilize the Service Menu of the Dealer Communication System, and based upon the response of the
system either proceed with corrective action, or take no action at all. If corrective action is necessary then
replace the ignition/starter switch.
Please note: The switch must not be mounted with its weight on one side, therefore tighten the two grub
screws alternately to avoid misaligning the switch. Before the cable connector is connected check the
ignition key snaps back from position 3.

Various Functions Inoperative on Instrument Cluster

Model:
BMW E38, BMW E39, Model 1998
Complaint:
-Some functions on the instrument cluster with integrated IKE are inoperative or locked up.
- When the power is turned off the instrument cluster may not fully power down which can lead to a dead
battery. If the transmission range signal is lost a no start situation will occur.
These can be caused by:
-Use of the OBC code could occasionally cause the loss of K-Bus communications between the IKE and
General Module. (The OBC code is the security code added in to the board computer or MID by the
vehicle owner when exiting the vehicle and re-entering the vehicle.)
-An error in Instrument Clusters with software lower than SW11.0.
Remedy:
Fit replacement Instrument Cluster SW11.0, or higher.

Replacement of Water-cooled Generator on BMW E38 M73TU Vehicles

Model:
BMW E38 750iL 750iLP produced September 1998 May 2000
Complaint:

As a result of frequent short journeys with a large number of electrical consumers switched on, an
adequate charge level may not be maintained by the vehicles electrical system battery which can as a
consequence result in a no-start situation.
Remedy:
A modified water-cooled generator with a new ribbed V-belt can be installed. This is able to cope with
short journeys due to its higher generator voltage and higher current capacity at slower speeds. The
following services should be carried out on all effected vehicles.
-SI 61 09 00 Replacement of the Battery Isolation Switch on E38 M73TU vehicles.
- SI 61 10 00 Replacement of the Vehicle Electrical System Battery on E38 M73TU vehicles.
- SI 12 09 00 Increase of Idle Speed on E38 M73TU vehicles.

Reprogramming the DME/ECM E38 m73TU Vehicles

Model:
BMW E38 750iL, 750iLP produced August 1998 February 2000
Complaint:
As a result of frequent short journeys with a large number of electrical consumers switched on, an
adequate charge level may not be maintained by the vehicles electrical system battery which can as a
consequence result in a no-start situation.
Remedy:
The battery voltage needs to be at the correct specification, once this happens the engine speed will
return to base idle. In order to do this using CD V22.0 or higher, reprogramme the ECM/DME of the
effected vehicles, this will temporarily increase the engine idle speed but only if the battery voltage is
below specification. The following services should be carried out on all effected vehicles:
-SIB # 12 08 00 Replacement of Alternator on E38/M73TU
- SIB # 61 09 00 Replacement of Battery Isolation Switch E38 M73TU
- SIB # 61 10 00 Replacement of Vehicle Battery on E38 M73TU
- SIB # 84 06 00 Retrofitting Adaptor Cable for MK II Plus
Navigator Computer on E38, E39, E46 Vehicles

Replacement of Water-cooled Generator on BMW E38 M73TU Vehicles

Model:
BMW E38 750iL 750iLP produced September 1998 May 2000
Complaint:
As a result of frequent short journeys with a large number of electrical consumers switched on, an
adequate charge level may not be maintained by the vehicles electrical system battery which can as a
consequence result in a no-start situation.
Remedy:
A modified water-cooled generator with a new ribbed V-belt can be installed. This is able to cope with
short journeys due to its higher generator voltage and higher current capacity at slower speeds. The
following services should be carried out on all effected vehicles.
-SI 61 09 00 Replacement of the Battery Isolation Switch on E38 M73TU vehicles.
- SI 61 10 00 Replacement of the Vehicle Electrical System Battery on E38 M73TU vehicles.
- SI 12 09 00 Increase of Idle Speed on E38 M73TU vehicles.

Reprogramming the DME/ECM E38 m73TU Vehicles

Model:
BMW E38 750iL, 750iLP produced August 1998 February 2000
Complaint:
As a result of frequent short journeys with a large number of electrical consumers switched on, an
adequate charge level may not be maintained by the vehicles electrical system battery which can as a
consequence result in a no-start situation.
Remedy:
The battery voltage needs to be at the correct specification, once this happens the engine speed will
return to base idle. In order to do this using CD V22.0 or higher, reprogramme the ECM/DME of the
effected vehicles, this will temporarily increase the engine idle speed but only if the battery voltage is
below specification. The following services should be carried out on all effected vehicles:
-SIB # 12 08 00 Replacement of Alternator on E38/M73TU
- SIB # 61 09 00 Replacement of Battery Isolation Switch E38 M73TU
- SIB # 61 10 00 Replacement of Vehicle Battery on E38 M73TU
- SIB # 84 06 00 Retrofitting Adaptor Cable for MK II Plus
Navigator Computer on E38, E39, E46 Vehicles

Replacement of Battery Isolation Switch

Model:
BMW E38 750iL, 750iLP produced in September 1998 to October 1999.
Complaint:
As a result of frequent short journeys with a large number of electrical consumers switched on, an
adequate charge level may not be maintained by the vehicles electrical system battery which can as a
consequence result in the vehicle not starting.
Remedy:
Check the wiring at the X1806 and the part number of the battery isolation switch, if required install a
retrofit wiring harness and/or replace the battery isolation switch. If the retrofit harness is installed, then
the ignition starter switch also needs to be replaced.
The following Service Actions should also be carried out on all affected vehicles:
-SI 61 10 00 Replacement of Vehicle Electrical System Battery on E38 M73TU Vehicles.
-SI 12 08 00 Replacement of Water-cooled Generator on E38 73TU Vehicles.
- SI 12 09 00 Increase of Idle Speed on E38 M73TU Vehicles.

Replacement of Vehicles System Battery and Battery Holder on E38 M73TU Vehicles
Model:
BMW E38 750iL, 750iLP produced from September 1998 April 2000
Complaint:
As a result of frequent short journeys with a large number of electrical consumers switched on, an
adequate charge level may not be maintained by the vehicles electrical system battery which can as a
consequence result in the vehicle not starting.
Remedy:
To find if a vehicle is affected by this Service Action then the Service Menu of the Dealer Communication
Programme must be employed. If necessary after the results of the system continue with the corrective
action or take no action at all.
If the vehicle has been affected then install a larger capacity (70 Ah) system battery and a new battery

holder. The following services must also be carried out:

-SI 61 09 00 Replacement of Isolation Switch on E38 M73TU Vehicles.
-SI 12 08 00 Replacement of Water-cooled Generator on E38 M73TU Vehicles.
- SI 12 09 00 Increase of Idle Speed on E38 M73TU Vehicles

Last edited by njdjh2o; 04-30-2009 at 04:24 PM.