"check Engine"

[1998BMWZ3]

I own a 1998 Z3. The "Check Engine" indicator went ON couple of days back. Sick of taking it to the mechanic, I ordered a "R5/fcx Ii Fault Code Tool" through BimmerZone store to do some preliminary investigation. I am expecting it to be delivered anytime now.

However, yesterday the "Check Engine" indicator went OFF by itself. I am not sure what to make out of this. Does it mean that everything is fine or is there a latent problem thats just waiting to show up? Now since the "Check Engine" indicator is OFF, if I run the scan tool will it tell me anything? Any responses greatly appreciated.

Thanks!!

[Bear]

Nice tool to have. I believe the system memorizes fault codes until you reboot by disconnecting the battery cable. Having said that, you should be able to pull a code for whatever was causing yur CEL to illuminate.

[djs1122]

I am not familiar with that tool. But I know some scanning devices only tell you what fault code is causing the check engine light to come on at that time, and only if the light is on at that time. If the light has gone off, it cannot read anything. The free one at Autozone is that type. While others like what the dealer uses will tell you all of the stored fault codes. I just had my 2000 Z3 at the dealer and they told me it had 3 stored codes in the cars computor.

[1998BMWZ3]

Thanks djs.

Though you didn't have the "Check Engine" light ON, still your dealer was able to get the codes. That means the codes do get stored.

The tool I have ordered is the best out there so hopefully it can retrieve the stored codes.

Thanks a lot guys!

[djs1122]

I just bought and received a code reader that reads pending and stored codes. It is an Equus CAN OBD2 3110. It cost $199 from Midway Auto Supply and comes with free software and a case. Easy to use and reads all codes.