3-Series (E36)Chat relating to the BMW 3-Series from 1992-1999. Autodoodad
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Recently, out of the blue, my check engine light came on... The vehicle is running stock and i have disconnected the battery. I ran the OBD-II diagnostic codes and they appeared P1423 and P1421. I have had no help so far in deciphering these codes!! If anyone has had this problem or if anyone can help, I would be extremely appreciative. I plan on going to the track on saturday and I dont want to run under these conditions if serious. Thanks again...
lol, I have a 1997 328i as well. They both have to do with emission problems. i forget which is which, but one is for your secondary air pump, and the other is O2 sensors. Im assuming your millage is somewhere in the 90-120k range. Unless you have an insteaction comming up they aren't a dyer emergency, but replacing the O2's will probably help your mpg. I just replaced my pre-cat O2 sensors and it took care of one fault code. Now I just need to do the SAP. Start by replacing you Pre-cat O2 sensors... (theres 2 before and two after the cat. blows cuz each is like $120)
This is a pretty routine failure on the E36 cars (P1423 & P1421 at the same time...). The secondary air pump seizes up due to condensation caused by a leaky gate valve. You need to replace both the air pump and the gate valve to solve your problem.
Parts Needed:
--One (1) secondary air pump (BMW part no. 11 72 1 744 490; list price $199.00)
--One (1) non-return valve (Gate Valve) (BMW part no. 11 72 1 744 255; list price $94.50)
--One (1) gasket for non-return valve (BMW part no. 11 72 7 505 259; list price $3.95)
I appreciate the help...i did hear a few grinding noises from the secondary air pump a while back...i was told i just need a new filter but the only way to do it is to replace the whole shebang . With only 83k i guess its just a routine upkeep deal. Thanks again
The only thing the SAP does occording to what ive read is basically turn on for the first 2-3 mins the car is turned on. It wont cause any damage really from what ive heard. Just let her get nice and warm before you mess around.
secondary air pump is an OBD 2 feature right? I am glad that I have OBD 1 sometimes.
Yes, OBD II feature. I have heard that Active Autowerke makes a simulator for the secondary air pump for about $150. I guess it replaces the pump and valve. MIght want to call Active and check, could save some money.
Oh, and both codes refer to the air pump and air valve, no o2 sensors.
__________________ 1995 325I, window tint, K&N, debaffled airbox, BMW #104 wheels, Nighthawk low beams, smoked side markers, smoked corners, smoked taillights, M3 stlye heated mirrors, various interior bits, Bosal cat-back.
so this deletes the whole system?? im assuming its a stupid thing in the first place... will it pass emissions with out it? my bad about the O2 sensor code. I would still change them tho...
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. With only 83k i guess its just a routine upkeep deal. Thanks again 
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