Check Engine Light On, But Only When I Start Car

[BMW-ATI]

Ok i have a weird problem?

See when I turn my key to the on position It shows the oil light, battery light, and check engine light........now I know my oil is fine, just changed it, and my batt is fine.

So why is my check engine light on?
cause when i actually start it up with the engine running, well the check engine light doesnt come on
Like it never has?

So whats the deal
Shouldnt if something was wrong with my car the check engine light would show up while I was driving?
but it only shows up when the car is just on, Like radio etc.?

any ideas?
hopefully it's not something major?

[97alpineM3]

I'f I'm not going crazy... the ON position of your ignition... lights up all of those warning lights... its a way of checking the bulb... its natural...

Les

[BMW-ATI]

u sure?

[97alpineM3]

I would go check on my car... but I'm in Iraq.... but yes I'm pretty sure... you turn the key.. the lights come on every time... you seem them for a little while.. then the go away...

Les

[dopeyx27]

I have a similar problem but my check engine light turns on right after I start my car, then it turns off like 5 seconds after. Is this a problem or is it just a glitch? Thanks

[NeverLeaned]

Your idiot lights are supposed to come on when you first start to the car....... its a self check to make sure they are working.

If for whatever reason you do not see an idiot light when you put the key in the on position, and when you first start the car then the system needs to be serviced....... (probably just a bad bulb)

Its just to let you know that its working because most people out there rely on these lights rather then check their oil or properly maintain their engines.