88 528e Running Problem

[lazerboy]

Randomly, the 528e will die when it starts. When this happens it starts with the check engine light on. When the car finally stays running, the car has to struggle to keep running. Today when I was stepping on the gas, the car did nothing at all, just barely stayed running. Pressing on the accelerator had no effect on the engine. Finally after like 30-45 seconds I regained control of the car. The check engine light stayed on the whole time home. Is there a way I can find out what code it is sending out without taking it to the shop? or maybe just a quick fix? Thanks in advance!