BMW316i Emissions warning light

[BMW Paul]

Hi Folks,
just looking for a bit of advice if possible. Got a BMW 316i, 1.8, E46. The other day the emissions warning light came on and has been on since. I've checked under the bonnet using my very limited knowledge of engines, i've topped up the oil, water, screen wash, kicked the tyres etc.

Can anyone advise if this is a serious fault, and if its likely to cost a lot to repair.

Many Thanks,

Paul

[tree]

Hi Paul, Not too sure what triggers an emissions warning light... most likely a llambda sensor.

which if it has identified a faulty mixture cant be at fault itself...
so soemthings causing an incorrect mixture.

unless the sensor is goosed and thinks the mixture is incorrect..

simple answer.. diagnostics machine

[BMW Paul]

Thanks for the reply. I'll pop into the garage on Mondayand get it on the diagnostic machine.

[tree]

Any more info add it up here, see if we can help further. Is it just the emissins light illuminating thats happened?
No change in engine chracteristics? loss of speed? anything like that

[BMW Paul]

Yeah, it seems to be just the emissions light. Not noticed any loss of power, speed or change to the way its driving.

Just had the car out for a spin from St Johns to Ballasalla and back with no problem, but the light was on the whole time.

Many thanks for the help so far.

Paul

[Geordie]

Could be a lot of things causing the light to come on. As mentioned, Diagnostic machine is the easiest way to find out. I'd avoid the local BMW Stealer unless it's under warranty though, as the last time i checked they charge a minimum of an hours labour to hook it up to the machine, which will burn a £100 hole in your pocket...

[Mallaby106]

Andy motors in Port St Mary has a diagnostics computer and he's cheap but not back to work till the new year.

[BMW Paul]

Could be a lot of things causing the light to come on. As mentioned, Diagnostic machine is the easiest way to find out. I'd avoid the local BMW Stealer unless it's under warranty though, as the last time i checked they charge a minimum of an hours labour to hook it up to the machine, which will burn a £100 hole in your pocket...

I dont plan on using the the dealer. I used Q & S motors a little while back for a minor fault and the work was spot on and only cost me a tenner, so would like to use them again. Do you know if they have a diagnostic machine?

[Sneak]

I would say pretty much all garages have a diagnostic machine.

[thinkinggrenades]

take the bulb out. much less costly. ignorance is bliss.