BMW Engine & Transmission Error Codes (all models)

On the dashboard of BMW cars, in the lower middle of the display, for some malfunctions, messages in German are displayed, which often remain incomprehensible, not everyone learned German) These messages are:

Einspritzanlagen - faulty engine management system.

 

Motornotprogramm - the engine management system went into emergency operation.

 

Kuhlwassertemperatur - engine (motor) overheating detected.

 

Kuhlwasserst. prufen - low level of coolant in the engine (motor).

 

Stop! Oldruck Motor - turn off the engine, low oil pressure!

 

Olstand Motor prufen - low oil level in the engine.

 

Bremsflussigk, prufen - low brake fluid in the brake system.

 

Bremsbelag prufen - worn brake pads.

 

Getriebenotprpgramm - Automatic transmission has switched over to emergency mode.

 

Bremslicht prufen - one or both brake lights do not work.

 

Abblendlicht prufen - dipped beam does not work.

 

Rucklicht prufen and Standlicht prufen - incorrect operation of the side lights.

 

Nebellicht hinten prufen and Nebellicht vorn prufen - incorrect operation of the front or rear fog lights.

 

Kennzeichenlicht prifen - license plate light does not work.

 

Fernlicht prufen - incorrect operation of high beam headlights.

 

Ruckfahricht prufen - incorrect operation of reversing lights.

 

Limit - speed exceeded.

 

Niveaurregel, inaktiv - a malfunction in the clearance adjustment system (clearance).

 

Parkbremse lossen - the manual (parking) brake is defective or activated.

 

Kofferraum offen - the trunk is open.

 

Tur offen - one or more doors are not closed.

 

Gurt angelen is a seat belt indicator.

 

Funkschlussel-Batt - you need to replace the batteries in the remote control.

 

Vorgluhen - glow plugs warm up.

 

Waschwasser fulen - low washer fluid.

101F01

Incorrect throttle opening angle pressure. It is necessary to test the operation of the mechanism, it may stick in the open or closed position.

138701

Failures in the radiator installation. The problem is the incorrect position of the engine cooling radiator screen. The device may be clogged or worn out.

123

Thermostat malfunction. The user needs to diagnose the device and check its wiring.

1613

Failures in the system of smooth idling. Possible jumps in speed up or down, reducing the power of the power unit.

2742

Failures in the formation of the air mixture or misfire in the first cylinder of the engine

2774

Incorrect air mass required to form an air-fuel mixture. The amount of air is critically large.

2854

Malfunction of the variable throttle mechanism. It is necessary to test the operation of the sensor and the assembly itself, possibly the shutter jammed.

2882

Depleted air-fuel mixture in the cylinders of the power unit

2883

Incorrect air-fuel ratio, problems in formation are fixed. If the throttle position, air and oxygen flow sensors are operational, then the functioning of the control module must be tested. Perhaps, as a result of a software malfunction, the device set the wrong parameters for the formation of the air mixture.

4203

The literal interpretation of the error is “the pre-start state of the glow plug.” It is necessary to check the operation of the devices and replace them in case of wear. If the spark plugs are new, the cause may be a malfunction or software failure of the glow plug control unit.

7B

Programmable Cooling Activation Message

285A

Malfunctions in the variable valve timing system. The problem is a malfunction of the servo drive control mechanism or directly in the drive unit.

274E

Multiple Misfire Reported

279C

Thermostat is malfunctioning (device is jammed), but this error code may indicate the following problems:

  1. Damage to the wiring or poor signal from the device to the control unit. It is necessary to check the integrity of the power line and make sure that the contact is good.
  2. Use of low quality fluid. As a result of the fact that the spent consumable cannot perform its functions of cooling the power unit, the microprocessor module regards this as a malfunction of the thermostat.
  3. Clogging of the cooling system channels with wear products and antifreeze deposits. To fix the problem, you will have to dismantle all the pipes and clean them. Critically clogged lines must be replaced.
  4. Malfunction of the gauge of temperature of a cooling liquid. The problem may result from a software failure.
  5. Mechanical damage to one of the pipes or the expansion tank, which led to the leakage of refrigerant from the system.

28A0

Incorrect throttle position angle. Inlet pressure is not in accordance with standardized data.

29D2

Microprocessor module registered misfire in the sixth cylinder of the engine

29D9

Misfire of fuel with a reduced amount of fuel in the tank. You need to erase the error, refuel the car and test the control unit again.

29E1

Error correction of fuel during the formation of a combustible mixture. It is necessary to diagnose the operation of sensors that affect the compositions - oxygen, air. Also, the problem may be a malfunction of the engine control unit.

2AA9

Common error code indicating a problem with the input collector

2AAB

Exhaust system malfunction

2AAC

Malfunctions associated with variable intake system 2, an error was recorded during the self-diagnosis

2A6B

Failures in the automatic valve control system, the problem must be sought in the functioning of the servomotor

2A67

Internal error in the operation of the adjustable valve lift system. With error 2A67, a detailed check of the elements for lack of wear and sticking is required.

2A7E

Mechanical valve seizing reported at Vanos

2A80

On BMW 87 and other versions, this code indicates a malfunction in the intake valve system

2A82

Mechanical seizure of vanos inlet valves, the course of devices may be impaired. If error 2A82 on the BMW E83 and other versions, it is necessary to check the operation of the drive element, if necessary, the valves change.

2A83

Translation from English of this error is “malfunctions of the Vanos system (inlet), the angle correction is outside the normalized range”. The first thing to do is to check the operation of the valves.

2A87

Malfunction of the solenoid valves of the Vanos system .

To fix the problem, the user must:

  • clean or replace the Vanos valve;
  • perform system adaptation;
  • check the oil filter housing; its “nose” may have broken off;
  • diagnose the actuator for jamming and seizing;
  • check the screws securing the actuator for loosening;
  • Diagnose the control module for software problems.

2A61

Failure in the learning function of the Valvetronic system. The problem should be sought for software malfunctions of the control module.

2A98

Violation of the synchronization of the cam shaft with the crankshaft. Possible malfunctioning of the respective sensors or wear of the timing belt. With Error 2A98, all pulleys should also be checked for defects.

2B68

Incorrect air mass flow. The problem may consist in the operation of the flowmeter sensor or a malfunction of one of the air lines. In rare cases, the cause is problems associated with the engine itself.

2B70

This error code may have several interpretations:

  1. Activation of the change in the length of the intake manifold. If the error is irregular, then the malfunction may be stuck in the servo drive. Failure is accompanied by a decrease in traction.
  2. Short circuit in the operation of the DISA actuator It is required to check the valves of the device.

2CF8

Throttle potentiometer malfunction, possible causes of the problem:

  • potentiometer sensor malfunction;
  • a short circuit inside the motor winding of the throttle valve;
  • lack of connection or poor-quality throttle contact with wiring;
  • wear of the insulating layer of the cable, which led to a change in the resistance value on the line.

2D06

Malfunction of the air mass supply system. The problem will lead to malfunctions in the formation of the combustible mixture.

Items to be diagnosed:

  • mass air flow sensor;
  • vacuum line for air leaks;
  • valve cover for possible damage;
  • EGR valve;
  • intercooler;
  • intake manifold assembly;
  • highways connected to the intercooler;
  • exhaust system with turbine;
  • swirl flaps;
  • air filter.

2EF7

This error code can have several notations:

  1. Thermostat malfunction. The user needs to check the operation of the device and make sure that it does not jam. The problem may be accompanied by malfunctions of the cooling system and overheating of the power unit. The malfunction of the thermostat may be due to clogging of the cooling system lines with sediment from antifreeze.
  2. Nitric oxide sensor error. It is necessary to check the connection quality of the device, as well as the absence of contamination on the connector.

29D1

Misfire in the fifth cylinder of the engine is fixed. With such a problem, you should first check the spark plugs themselves, and then make sure that they are in good contact with the car's electrical network, in particular, high-voltage wires. The cause of the problem may be a malfunction of the distributor.

29F4

The literal translation of the error is “catalytic conversion conversion”. The cause of the problem is a malfunction or poor connection of the catalytic converter.

29F5

Clogged catalyst that may be associated with the following problems:

  • regular use of low quality fuel;
  • natural wear of the unit;
  • clogged cell filter.

The power unit with such a problem starts to work unstably, it is possible to reduce power and the lack of reaction to pressing the gas pedal. The Check Engine indicator appears on the dashboard and the fuel consumption is also increased.

To check the catalyst for clogging, you can resort to one of the following methods:

  1. Light up the device using a flashlight. It is best to drive the car into a pit and dismantle the assembly.
  2. Try to identify clogging on the scent. If the catalyst device is clogged, a pungent odor gas will escape from the exhaust pipe.
  3. Substitute a hand to the muffler. If the node is working properly, the user will feel serious opposition. If the catalyst is clogged, there will be no serious resistance.

434E

Malfunctioning shutter system, activation of the device is broken

4A6E

On BMW 1 and other versions, this code indicates a malfunction in the functioning of the glow plug installed in the first cylinder of the engine. The power unit with this problem can start without fail. It is necessary to check the operation of the candle itself, as well as make sure its quality connection.

4A63

Intake manifold malfunctions, detailed unit diagnosis required

4B90

Malfunction in the work of the pressure control system in the rails when starting the power unit. It is necessary to check the operation of the system sensor, and also to make sure that there are no signs of damage to the assembly.

480A

Code 480A can have two decryption:

  • critical contamination of the particulate filter;
  • exhaust gas pressure is unacceptable - the operating parameter is out of the upper or lower range.

4D2D

A malfunction indicating a limitation of the power output of the power unit. The problem may be with the injectors or one of the engine sensors. Also, the cause may be a malfunction of the control module by the motor.

5F78

If diagnostics using the INPA system (INPA) showed this code, this indicates that the engine status is not received by the control unit or the data is invalid. If the microprocessor module works without failures and there are no software errors, then the problem must be sought in a poor connection.

A0b4

Starting the power unit on a car with a working starter.

Possible causes of the problem:

  1. Faulty CAS or DME module It is necessary to check both devices and test their connection quality. The problem may be a communication failure due to wire wear.
  2. Software malfunction of the control unit. It is necessary to test the module itself and its firmware.
  3. Faulty starter mechanism. Perhaps one of the structural elements of the device is stuck.

P12ba

Error in the fuel injection time in the fourth cylinder of the engine - the fuel supply is too early. It is necessary to check the operation of nozzles and wires. If the problem occurs after washing the engine, it is necessary to dry all the contacts on the high-voltage cables.

P13B4

Malfunctioning vanos valve or mesh device. The problem is accompanied by a decrease in the power of the power unit.

P14A3

Particulate filter malfunction. You can try to clean this device if it is clogged, but most likely, the filter element will have to be changed.

P0102

Malfunctions of the flowmeter in the car - a critically low signal arrives from the device to the engine control module. The problem is most likely related to the operation of the sensor itself or the wiring. In the first case, clogging of the device is possible, as a result of which a smaller air flow passes through the controller. In the second case, you should look for closures.

P0171

A depleted air-fuel mixture was recorded, possible causes of the malfunction:

  1. Malfunction of nozzles or their incorrect operation. One of the elements may be clogged, so cleaning will be required. To diagnose the nozzles you will need a special stand.
  2. Untimely replacement of filters. As a result, foreign particles can enter the engine.
  3. Clogged or malfunctioning mass air flow sensor. To fix the problem, you need to clean the device using a special tool or change it.
  4. Malfunction or malfunctioning of an EGR valve designed to return a certain amount of exhaust gas to the engine cylinder. The device may be clogged.
  5. Intake system malfunctions or throttle position controller malfunction. If the latter is clogged, it is cleaned. The position of the damper must correspond to the temperature of the power unit or gas pedal. If the engine is warm, the device should be open, if not, it should be at a certain angle.
  6. Malfunction of the absolute pressure controller installed in the intake manifold.
  7. The idle speed sensor is defective or clogged. Perhaps the problem is the poor tightness of the connection.
  8. Problems in the work of the gas distribution mechanism. You need to check how the tags are set and in what condition the videos are. If the latter are worn out, they must be replaced.
  9. Oxygen controller malfunction.
  10. Failure or clogging of the fuel pump.

If the error is not accidental, it will be accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • misfire in one or more engine cylinders;
  • the delay in the response of the power unit to pressing gas;
  • triple motor;
  • random engine shutdown when idling;
  • sharp jerks of the motor;
  • the appearance of new noises and sounds during engine operation;
  • unstable operation of the unit as a whole.

P0174

The depletion of the air-fuel mixture, the problem should be sought in the second bank of the engine

P0301

Misfire in the first cylinder of the engine was detected. We need to look for the cause and start by testing the oxygen sensors and air flow.

P0306

Misfire in the sixth cylinder of the power unit

P0313

The powertrain control unit detected misfire caused by a reduced fuel level in the tank. If error P0313, you need to make sure that there is enough fuel.

P0363

This combination indicates the misfire of the air-fuel mixture in one of the cylinders of the unit, the number must be verified by the diagnostic method. The problem is the lack of fuel supply.

P0430

Catalytic converter malfunctions. The control unit fixed a problem in the operation of the second engine bank - the efficiency of operation is below a critical threshold.

P1050

Malfunction of the Valvetronic system - raising the intake valves. The problem is accompanied by the appearance of the Check indicator on the dashboard, as well as the transition of the power unit to half power mode. The reason may be a malfunction of the system control module or damage to the power line.

P1062 (1062)

Malfunction of the variable valve timing system. The engine control unit can put the power unit into emergency operation mode. It is noted that the shafts do not reach the extreme position.

P1083

The lean air-fuel mixture recorded by the engine control unit in one of the engine cylinders. An error indicates a malfunction in the first oxygen sensor, but the problem may be with the control unit.

P1250

Critically high air pressure recorded in the intake manifold. First of all, the user needs to test the operation of the absolute pressure controller, as well as its wiring. If these elements are intact, the ECM is subject to diagnosis.

P1343

Combinations P1343 or 1343 report a misfire with a fuel cutoff recorded in the operation of the first engine cylinder. If one of the sensors is faulty, then with such a problem, the Check icons or exclamation mark in a circle are lit on the dashboard.

P1347

Misfire in the third cylinder of the power unit

P1349

Misfire recorded in the fourth cylinder of the power unit

P1351

Misfire in the fifth engine cylinder with fuel cut-off.

Reasons that could lead to this problem:

  1. No spark on the spark plug. Such a problem may occur as a result of wear of the device, contamination of the electrode or its malfunction. Also, the lack of spark appears when the switchgear fails or the armored wire connected to the candle is damaged. The lid on the distributor could crack, causing moisture to enter.
  2. Lack of fuel in the combustible mixture. This problem manifests itself as a result of clogging or failure of the nozzle. The reason may be insufficient fuel pressure, which is associated with a clogged filter or a failure of the pressure sensor. The latter could wear out and leak.
  3. The problem may be a breakdown of the exhaust valve or damage to the gasket located in the cylinder head. This leads to a decrease in the level of compression as a result of leakage of fuel or its non-combustion.

P1353

This code on BMW 38, 4 4 and other versions means disabling the sixth cylinder of the power unit and interrupting the supply of fuel. The problem is misfiring the fuel / air mixture with the fuel cut off.

Reasons that could lead to this malfunction:

  • damage or breakage of wiring;
  • reduced fuel level in the tank;
  • malfunction of the fuel system;
  • ignition problems - candles, high-voltage wires, switch, coils;
  • lack of tightness in the intake system;
  • mechanical malfunctions in the engine.

P3264

The literal translation of the error code P3264 is “a small ratio of the calculated and measured air mass”. First of all, it is necessary to check the operation of the mass air flow sensor and clean it if necessary. If this does not help, the device changes.

Transmission Errors

420531

Gearbox related malfunction. The transmission may go into speed limit mode.

5087

On BMW E32 and other versions, this code indicates a malfunction in the automatic gearbox selector controller. The problem is the functioning of the manual shift mechanism or torque converter.

5088

The general error code in the operation of an automatic transmission (automatic transmission), the following components are subject to diagnosis:

  • box control unit for defects and software problems;
  • module wiring and its contacts;
  • torque converter of the transmission unit and its petals;
  • lubrication in the device for lack of deposits.

A0b1

Incorrect gear shift lever position. The error may appear cold and disappear after warming up or restarting the engine. The user needs to test the operation of the sensors, as well as the transmission control unit. You will also need to diagnose the consumable - oil in the box. If a decrease in the liquid level or the appearance of wear products in it is detected, the lubricant is replaced.

A82e

Failures in the operation of the locking system E. The brake itself is defective; it is necessary to check in detail the operation of the system.

A833

On BMW X3 25, 32 and other versions, this code indicates a malfunction of the transmission gear selector

CDA7

Malfunction of the reverse monitoring system. The cause of the problem may be a malfunction associated with the operation of the sensor or gearbox. You should also pay attention to the operation of the DME module.

CF33

There is no signal from the control module of the transmission unit.

Possible causes of the problem:

  1. Failure in the operation of the box control unit, including software problems. It is necessary to test the device and make sure that the problem is not related to moisture exposure on the unit. If so, then the “device” is subject to replacement or drying of the board.
  2. Malfunction of the electrical component of the car. It is necessary to check the connection quality of the module and make sure that it is in good contact with the network.
  3. Malfunctioning battery or generator. Both devices are subject to diagnosis. The problem may be power surges.

F10

Code F10 reports a malfunction in the drive system. The problem must be sought in the wiring or the sensors of the mechanism. Also, the reason may be a malfunction of the control module.

F30

Drive error - full power is not available to the car. It is necessary to check the unit and its wiring, as well as diagnose the operation of the gearbox control unit.

2DB6

Switch malfunction for speed sensor

3EFC

The automatic transmission sensor is malfunctioning, possibly poor connection of the device. If the sensor and wiring are intact, the engine and gearbox control unit is subject to diagnosis. The cause may be a software malfunction.

4A63

Mismatch of gearbox and engine control modules

4E87

Malfunction of the automatic transmission solenoid. It is necessary to check the operation of the solenoid for a plus, as well as all the connectors of the transmission unit.

4F85

Transmission malfunctions, the microprocessor reports a malfunction in the gear ratio. It is necessary to check all the elements of the box.

4F89

Malfunctions of the gear ratio control system. The problem is the 3-4 gear shift mechanism. It is necessary to make a complete diagnosis of the transmission unit, if necessary, remove and disassemble the box. You may need to replace the structural elements - sensors, solenoids, torque converter.

4F8A

Malfunction of the gear shift control system. The control unit indicates an incorrect gear ratio of 4-5. It is necessary to dismantle the mechatronics and perform its cleaning or flushing along with the solenoids. It may be necessary to search the box with the replacement of damaged components.

4F8C

Malfunction in the mechanism of control of the gear ratio of switching 6-5 gears. It is necessary to test the sensors and the transmission control unit. The fault may lie in the selector itself.

4F8D

Failures in the operation of the gear ratio control system 5-4. After pressing the gas pedal, an error may occur when the emergency mode of the transmission unit is turned on. The problem may be using low quality oil and clogging of the filter device. It is necessary to check the quality of the consumable and replace it in the presence of sediments and deposits in the liquid.

4F81

Failures in the operation of the transmission clutch control system A. It is necessary to check the operation of the box, first of all, it is necessary to test the quality of the oil and its volume. If there is a lack of fluid in the unit, the grease must be added or replaced. Determine the cause of the leak.

5dea

Failures in the transfer case related to temperature imbalance. In other words, the problem is overheating of the transmission unit. Most likely, the consumable is to blame, in particular, its poor quality or poor performance.

5F2F

Faulty mechatronics electronic control module - vehicle gearbox. It is possible to turn on the emergency transmission mode.

51AD

The automatic transmission control unit EGS does not receive data from the DSC control module It is noted that the information does not reach the device via the digital CAN bus It is necessary to test the digital interface or the DSC module With such a problem, the gearbox can go into emergency operation.

51B0

No brake signal. The impulse does not correspond to the normalized indicators. The cause of the problem may be a malfunction of the gearbox control unit.

54C4

There is a malfunction in the transfer case or servomotor. It is necessary to test both nodes and their wiring, the problem may be the closure of the contact elements. Error 54C4 may be the inability to calibrate.

56C5

Error in the operation of the automatic transmission unit. Activation of the solenoid valve In the gearbox - the device jams in the open position.

In addition to the valve itself, problems may include the following:

  1. Malfunction of the solenoids, which led to a low pressure in the torque converter.
  2. Failures in the operation of the box control unit.
  3. The use of low-quality oil or grease has lost its working properties. The problem may be due to fluid leakage due to damage to the unit.
  4. Malfunction of one of the sensors.

54c6

Code 54C6 is a message from the control unit about wear in the use of gear oil that has lost its performance due to aging. If the lubricant has been replaced for a long time, then the oil must be changed.

54C8

Reported malfunctions recorded in the operation of the transfer gearbox. The problem is the servo classification resistance. It is necessary to check the wiring and ring the cable with a multimeter.

578E

Deteriorated oil in the gearbox of the car. It is necessary to check the quality of the transmission fluid for signs of deposits and sediment in it. If the oil contains wear products, the lubricant must be changed; it is also recommended to clean or replace the transmission filter.

5F3A

Malfunction in the transfer case. It is necessary to test the quality of the connection of the unit with the clutch. The problem may be a malfunction in the ECU.

5F39

The transfer gearbox control unit is locked or malfunctions. Possible disconnection of the contact from the module or software failure.

5F42

Malfunction in the CAN- bus control module automatic transmission. The problem is the lack of communication, respectively, the cause must be sought in damage to the cables or oxidation of the connectors on the microprocessors.

9C69

Transmission coupling clutch malfunction

P0733

Incorrect gear ratio in the third gear box. It is necessary to check the operation of the torque converter device, transmission control unit and all sensors.

P0748

Failure of the gearbox fluid pressure control solenoid valve. The problem is electrical, in this case, diagnostics of the connection and contacts are made.

P2731

Transmission Fluid Pressure Control Solenoid F Faulty. First of all, check the integrity of the circuit.

P2779 (2779)

Problems in the operation of the gear shifter (selector). The signal coming from the device is outside the permissible normalized range. A detailed check of the quality of connection and communication is required.

Comments: 5
  • #5

    Terra (Wednesday, 17 May 2023 20:08)

    What does code P1510 mean? 1999 BMW - 323i

  • #4

    Jorge Negroni (Saturday, 04 March 2023 00:19)

    2006 BMW X3

  • #3

    Gary Smith (Monday, 02 January 2023 22:12)

    What does the P180A code mean?

  • #2

    Kenny (Friday, 22 July 2022 21:13)

    What does the code 4f87 mean for 2006 bmw 530xi?

  • #1

    cyprian (Wednesday, 10 March 2021 18:10)

    what cause CF33 fault code and how to fix it