Where is the diagnostic plugin on 740il?

[linx]

I've been looking at both the 740i and 740il models. I found a 1997 with 95,000 miles. It has a clean carfax report and was a one owner leased vehicle. I also noticed that the water pump was new. Overall, it was clean inside and out, including the engine compartment.

When I test drove it it was was idling smoothly and had plenty of power, but when I opened it up at 70 mph on the highway, the engine light came on and it ran like it was missing on a few cylinders, quite rough.

When I got back to the car dealer, I re-started it again and it idled smoothly, but the engine light still came back on. I test drove it again, there was no problem, and it ran smoothly right up to 60 mph.

Although I had my code scanner with me, I didn't see any OBDII plugin underneath the driver's dash or in the engine compartment. Where is the plugin located for the years 1996, 1997 and 1998?

Also, how reliable is the electronic system and wiring harness with this particular model? Is there a high failure rate with the sensors or engine management system?

Just trying to find a solid driver. Thanks.

[Mad Dragon]

The round connector next to the B.

[plik]

It's right next to the cup holder, under the "fancy" buttons.

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/collison944/cup%20console%20back%20in%20dash.JPG

[linx]

It's right next to the cup holder, under the "fancy" buttons.

Okay, will do.

[Mad Dragon]

That's the OBD port, and it will only give you generic engine and trans faults. If you want a complete list of faults for every system, you will have to use the 20-pin under the hood.

[linx]

That's the OBD port, and it will only give you generic engine and trans faults. If you want a complete list of faults for every system, you will have to use the 20-pin under the hood.
Thanks buddy, you rock.

[Qsilver7]

Granted, the diagnostic port under the hood may give more detailed information...but the only way to retrieve that info is with VERY expensive equipment that you usually find at the BMW dealership (DIS/MoDic/GST-1(?)...or whatever the newest machine nomenclature is)...or an Indy that has put up the expense for modern diagnostic equipment.

Since OBD II has been in the e38 since model year 1996...the OBD II port next to the cupholder will give info that indicates which sensors have created a fault code...and the fault code number can usually be found using an index that came with his scanning equipment...plus there are websites out there that will explain the CODES, too. (just go to google and type "OBD II CODES")

Just be careful when removing the cover...many people pull the wood trim off its backing NOT knowing there is a small handle under the trim piece. See, the image below for instrutions on its removal...and remember, too...that there may be another protective cover over the pins once the wood trim piece is removed.

http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/7/web/739000-739999/739005_110_full.jpg

[plik]

That's the OBD port, and it will only give you generic engine and trans faults. If you want a complete list of faults for every system, you will have to use the 20-pin under the hood.

Ya, but he was asking about the OBDII port.


... I had my code scanner with me, I didn't see any OBDII plugin underneath the driver's dash or in the engine compartment.