Check Engine Light - Strong Exhaust Smell - BMW Forum

GatorInSC · 02-21-2005, 10:15 AM

I have a 1994 325ic. My check engine light came on a few days ago and I haven't had the opportunity to have the code read yet. Autozone doesn't have the tool for pre-1996 cars. Anyway, ever since the light came on I have noticed a much stronger than normal exhaust smell when I stop and get out of the car. This is especially true when I pull into my garage.

Can anyone speculate as to what the problem might be? I have not noticed a difference in the performance of the car. Thanks in advance.

93 325i · 02-21-2005, 11:13 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by GatorInSC@Feb 21 2005, 11:15 AM
I have a 1994 325ic. My check engine light came on a few days ago and I haven't had the opportunity to have the code read yet. Autozone doesn't have the tool for pre-1996 cars. Anyway, ever since the light came on I have noticed a much stronger than normal exhaust smell when I stop and get out of the car. This is especially true when I pull into my garage.

Can anyone speculate as to what the problem might be? I have not noticed a difference in the performance of the car. Thanks in advance.

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You can read the codes yourself using your gas pedal. Here is the link:
Fault Code DIY
I guarentee your problem will be a faulty O2 Sensor. Just had mine replaced..

GatorInSC · 02-21-2005, 11:22 AM

I have tried like crazy to get the codes by using this method but can't get it to work. When I turn the key to the on position without cranking it up the check engine light comes on. When I depress and release the pedal 5 times the light just remains on and does not flash.

What is the typical cost of having a faulty O2 sensor replaced?

93 325i · 02-21-2005, 12:10 PM

If you keep trying the pedal method it will eventually work for you. Try pessing the pedal with different speeds. With mine I have to press the pedal 5 times as fast as I can..

Well I bought my O2 sensor from Bimmerworld.com -$85.00
I tried installing it myself but it proved to be a HUGE PITA. It is located before the cats and on top of the exhaust pipe. Space is tight and I couldn't get nearly enough leverage to budge it. So I took it down to meineke and they did it for $40. After, the guy said there was no way I would have ever gotten it off with the car just on jack stands. Make sure the new O2 sensor goes in with antiseize compound (Bimmerworld sends their sensors with anti seize already on it). If you just go to a mechanic without a part it will prolly cost you upwards of $175-$200.

GatorInSC · 02-21-2005, 12:52 PM

I kept trying and finally got it to work! My error code is a 1221 which indicates the oxygen sensor #1 might be faulty.

93 325i · 02-21-2005, 01:12 PM

There you go..just replace that and you'll be good to go. For your reference, the check engine light will turn off automatically after about 5-10 min of driving. So don't be alarmed that the light is still on. Just drive it a few minutes and it will go out..goodluck

jllphan · 02-21-2005, 01:13 PM

yup, guess I came in late to this one, but I would've guessed that too! Your O2 sensors should be replaced every 60-80K miles, but most people wait until they get that error message. Replacement is relatively easy if you have acess to a lift, if not, I'd pay to have it done.