list of codes

[bukzin]

I have a basic OBD unit ('Automatic' brand) to check status/issues
with my 2005 645Ci


Where might I find a list of what the codes mean?

Thanks

[Pelican Parts]

Hello - take a look at the link below to an earlier thread on this. There should be a PDF attachment with the list.

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=683744

[MauiM3Mania]

Moved from General BMW sub-forum.

[bmwdirtracer]

The first thing you need to know is that P-codes (as read by a generic OBD reader) are terribly inaccurate, completely inadequate, and often highly misleading for a BMW like yours.

These p-codes are for emissions items only.
The codes are translations by bureaucrats; then they're converted to numbers; then someone else reads the numbers again, then puts them on a chart with different information from a different manufacturer.
There are ~50 computers in your car; a generic reader can only listen to one of them .....but of course, an OBD reader is deaf.....so the advanced BMW has to try to say what's wrong with it in sets of 4 numbers.

Anyway, you can Google any of those codes. Don't be surprised when you find three different translations for the same code.

ECS Tuning has a good, easy, BMW diagnostic tool for $200. With this device, you can not only listen to, but also command the dozens of computers in your car.

[bukzin]

That will be helpful.


Can I also see past codes (issues on my car) ?



What is meant by 'P-codes' ?

Any tips on where I could read up on all this?

[bmwdirtracer]

P-codes are the codes which you get from your generic OBD reader. Each number is prefaced by a "P". BMW codes are NOT prefaced by a "P", and any good BMW scan tool will give you actual words, not just numbers.

Codes are generally held in memory for ~40 starts, and if they don't recur during that period, the computer clears them.

Your car is very complex; not exactly a good vehicle to learn DIY car care, but a good scan tool is step 1. A Bentley manual should be Step 2. (Note: Not Haynes, Not Chilton....BENTLEY.

Someone here will point you in the right direction for where to obtain one for your car.

[MarcoZandrini]

The "P" stands for passenger car, if I recall correctly. Heed Chris's advice on the proper scan tool and the proper manual.

[bmwdirtracer]

Damn, I always thought it stood for bullPuckey.

Got your new ride yet, Mark?

[MarcoZandrini]

Next week! It's on the boat that arrives in Baltimore tomorrow!!!