"Cog" warning light...seeking a most probable cause

[wsmith2inc]

2002 E46 330ci
COG/transmission/TCS warning light has come one and from what I've viewed and read the possible causes for this are numerous and varied. Battery voltage, wheel speed sensors, MAs airflow, oil levels, etc. etc.
Just got it back from the shop after replacing most of the cooling system after the vehicle sat idle for about 10 months. New battery was installed at that time as well. My code reader (albeit not a top of the line) does not show error codes for that warning light or for the "Service engine soon" light that is on as well. I know I need to replace the valve cover and gasket due to oil leaks and the shop recommended updating/replacing the PVC system.
Any suggestions as to where to start due to the various causes for this warning light. I need to address the issues mentioned in a smart manner since my wife JUST started working again after about 2 years due to the pandemic so money is pretty tight right now.
Many Thanks!

[MichaelFloria]

I've been having very similar issues. Are you throwing a P0600 communication error as well as the transmission limp mode?

[snowfox]

If it's the cog with the exclamation point in the middle I got that after draining the engine oil and replacing the engine oil level sensor with a new one. After filling the car with oil the light went away. Perhaps check if your engine oil level sensor is working. It's about a 50 dollar part from the version with the OEM bmw logo grinded off, 80 for the one with the logo.

[EvanC]

Also having transmission warning light and TCS light and in limp mode. Error code p0600. Battery checks fine. Any thoughts where to start. I did have the ECM checked and it checked out fine.

[Sapote]

Also having transmission warning light and TCS light and in limp mode. Error code p0600. Battery checks fine. Any thoughts where to start. I did have the ECM checked and it checked out fine.

Post the description of P0600
What’s TCS?
Use inpa to read transmission error code

[EvanC]

I meant DSC ( dynamic stability control).
I’m a newbie and have seen inpa referred to. What exactly is it.

[Sapote]

I meant DSC ( dynamic stability control).
I’m a newbie and have seen inpa referred to. What exactly is it.

Google inpa for bmw

[E39 Newbie]

I meant DSC ( dynamic stability control).
I’m a newbie and have seen inpa referred to. What exactly is it.

INPA is the factory software that BMW used to use with cars of this vintage. Google "Mike's BMW Tools" and you'll find downloads for the software. It runs on a notebook - Windows XP is best but really hard to find. I'm told it runs on more modern versions of Windows, but I had an old WinXP unit laying around. You'll need a DCAN cable, available for a few $$ from Amazon. Be warned the interface is very clunky. You might be happier with something more modern, but more expensive. Google around for reviews on the Foxwell line of scan tools.

[Sapote]

Inpa runs on windows 7 and 10 too

[EvanC]

Thanx for advice. I just happen to have a computer that runs XP. I did Google INPA but it was in German. I’m sure there are others. Will do some of the things y’all suggested.

[E39 Newbie]

Thanx for advice. I just happen to have a computer that runs XP. I did Google INPA but it was in German. I’m sure there are others. Will do some of the things y’all suggested.

Go to Mike's BMW Tools and download it. Yes, unfortunately much of it is in German. Google Translate works wonders!