E36 Self Diagnostics - posible??

[shanbala]

Is it possible for E30 + E36 vehicles (up to 1995) to diagnose common engine problems without having to take it to a reputable BMW service centre (ie self diagnostic). I read a technical article yesterday, which stated that this self diagnostics is possible where cars are fitted with the Service Indicator Computers (the series of lights directly that remind you to change the oil & perform service). I tried to carry out this self diagnostics on my ride (E36 1995 325i manual) but was unable to get any such readings. One thing I noticed was that my ride did not have a "check oil" light when the ignition was in the one position (ie before starting the car). This light is suppose to go off once the car has started. Should the self diagnostics procedure work, this "check oil" light will blink once and than start blinking a series of four numbers. The number of times that this light blinks, will indicate the error code. The codes appear as a series of flashes for each digit. 1) has any E36 owner tried this self diagnostics2) does the instrument panel have this "check oil" light prior to starting the engine3) the absence of this "check oil" light on my vehicle could be due to either my ride does not have this function or the bulb has fused/removed?? rgds

 

[seb]

Only possible on system using OBD I

 

[shanbala]

OBD 1 ? how do I know/check if my ride has the OBD 1.


rgds

 

[seb]

BMW built before 1996

 

[LCP]

Is the "check oil" light the one with the alladin lamp icon? If it is, this is one of the most basic warning lights in any car... It will light up when you turn on the key, but will go off once the car is started, or sometimes a few seconds after engine starts. This indicates that the oil pressure have reached the bare minimum required for the engine. The bulb may be blown, so pls get it repaired.