Siemens DME interchangability - 97 M3

[ArtS]

I have a '97 M3 (E-36) with a 9-96 build date.

The DME appears to be flakey.

Question:

Are the following DME's interchangable

Siemens
5WK9 0172 index 02 _______________1 405 854
DME MS41.1 ________________Made in Germany I


Siemens
5WK9 0354 index 03 _______________1 406 464
DME MS41.1 ________________Made in Germany R

I believe the R is later, but I don't know what else is different - I intend to take it in for reprogramming/sychronization.

Any knowledge/experience would be most welcome!

Art S.

[thejlevie]

What are the symptoms? In the general case the DME is the last suspect if the engine isn't running right. There are plenty of other possible causes that should be investigated first.

[BRAAP]

If it helps, I happen to have a virgin DME for sale out of my US '97 M3 sedan 5 speed, (car build date 10/96), in the ad linked below. (MAF and cruise control also listed in the ad)

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum....php?t=1451117

[Matt]

All OBD2 M3 DMEs are compatible... they can be updated by the dealer to the latest software when they synch your EWS.

OBD2 328 DMEs are the same hardware but the dealership software (GT1 or whatever) won't let you switch them to M3 software.

So, if both your DMEs are from WBSB VIN numbered vehicles, they can be interchanged.

[ArtS]

Thank you everyone!

Regards,

Art S.

[brduke]

Help, Help - I have a 97 E36 Sedan.

Check Engine light is 'on'.
Car runs great, although I cannot get it to pass emissions (per local EPA rules where I live) with the light 'on'.

Does anyone have an available DME for this car?
Not even sure if this is it but I will try.

This is what is listed on the unit:
BMW 1406442
Siemens 5WK9 172 Index 02
DME MS41.1
1 405 854
I

Thank you very much for any assistance
Brian 781-654-7479

[pbonsalb]

I doubt your problem is the DME. Use a good tool like the Foxwell NT510 or 520 or 530 with bmw software to scan codes. Then ask how to fix. Or take the car to a professional.

[brduke]

Thanks for the advice.
The car is with a great reputable BMW / German car shop.

Car runs awesome but will NOT clear the Check Engine code.

We can find no other reason the light is on.

Do these DMEs fail often or have issues. I can't get an emissions certificate with the bloody light on.

Need additional tips, tricks or help....
Thanks
BD
781.654.7479

[328 Power 04]

Scan for codes!

It's on for a reason. The DME is not the fault.

[pbonsalb]

If it’s just the light and no codes show, pull the bulb, pass inspection, put the bulb back in and figure out the issue.

[ross1]

If it’s just the light and no codes show, pull the bulb, pass inspection, put the bulb back in and figure out the issue.

That won't work as the MIL bulb also needs to be functioning.
OP,
The DMEs are usually robust BUT the E36 chassis places them in a poor spot prone to flooding. Open the compartment and check for signs of this.
I can't explain why no codes with light on but suspect there are codes you aren't seeing. Using a good diagnostic scanner?
Are you connecting at the OBD port in the car or at the 19 pin under the hood? If the former is the cover properly on the 19 pin one?
Unless a wet DME I think another scan with different equipment may spot the reason for the MIL.

[bmwdirtracer]

If the car is an automatic, make sure to check the EGS (transmission computer) for codes. This computer can set a Check Engine light also. You will need to connect to the underhood 20 pin BMW diagnostic port, not the OBD port.