Difference between Service Engine Soon and Check Engine Light

[Kinky Twinkie]

Hi, new E46 owner and new to this forum. Can anyone tell me the difference between the check engine light (light that looks like an engine) and service engine soon light (light that just says "service engine soon")?
Thanks

[Critter7r]

Nothing. It's two different ways of saying the same thing.

[jamin325i]

.

[02325]

Nothing. It's two different ways of saying the same thing.


BMW used both in different cars, they mean the exact same thing.