Check Engine Light

[tomszafranski]

First time here folks. My 1992 325i starts running rough when warmed up. It runs ok until it gets warm then the check eng light comes on and often turns off only to return again. When it comes on I know it's going to run poorly. At it's worst, it'll cut off when I come to a stop. I bought it when it had 92,000 and it now has 145,000. I have not put a new O2 sensor in it yet. I'm taking it in tomorrow could use your input.

Thanks,

Tom

[Kevin325i]

Read out the codes with the pedal method. Turn ignition to position one then press the gas to the floor 5 times in 3 seconds, the CE will blink out the codes for you.

Kevin

[jrhaile]

o2 sensor would be a good start... then check your idle control valve also referred to as idle speed control. might need to be cleaned or replaced...then you could have a cat going out but usually you smell something... also could be using wrong kind of oil...

[tomszafranski]

I tried to get a read out by turning key to on pos and hit throttle 5 times to no avail. I tried twice. I didn't mention that when this started two days ago there was a strong sulfuric odor. I don't get that as long as I don't "get on it". I need to drive it about 6 miles to the shop. Will I incur any damage doing this?

Tom

[Kevin325i]

Sounds like a bad cat and it took the O2 sensor with it.

Kevin

[jllphan]

No, you'll be ok. I'm no expert, but it does sound like the O2 sensor could be the problem. Just wonder why it failed. Never been changed and worn out, bad cat, cheap gas?