EML Light BMW
The Engine Management Light (EML) or check engine light is a warning indicator that is found on your BMW’s dashboard. It will illuminate when more severe issues are detected in your vehicle’s systems or parts that work with the engine and the connecting exhaust systems.
The engine management light connects directly to your BMW’s or Mini Cooper’s main computer, which is known as the ECU or Engine Control Unit. If the ECU detects an issue in one of the aforementioned systems, it will trigger the check engine light and send out an error code. This can be used to correctly diagnose and repair the problem.
Common Reasons Why the Check Engine Light may Illuminate
Damage Level: Low
Response: Lower your speed and locate the nearest auto shop.
Vacuum hoses are needed to channel both fresh air as well as emissions around the engine to allow it to run correctly. They’re made of rubber and can be exposed to high temperatures inside the engine which can lead to them cracking or deteriorating over time. When this happens, the precise balance of gases can be thrown off-kilter, leading to the engine’s sensors reporting issues to the ECU.
Damage Level: Low
Response: Check the cap and replace it as needed.
This issue is most commonly caused by drivers being distracted at the pumps and not correctly tightening their fuel cap. A loose cap allows extra air into the tank which distripts the pressure. This will cause one of the many sensors to detect an issue and inform the ECU. This is the most simple and most common cause for check engine light illumination and should always be ruled out first.
Damage Level: Medium
Response: Lower your speed and locate the nearest auto shop.
The fuel pump is what provides pressuriSed fuel to the fuel injectors. If the pump isn’t working correctly, then the fuel will not be able to be properly delivered to the engine, causing rough running. The engine light will be illuminated by the ECU and your BMW will likely be at an increased risk of misfiring.
Damage Level: High
What to do: Lower your speed and locate the nearest auto shop, or call for a tow.
The particulate filter is most commonly found in diesel models, but it is being introduced into petrol cars too. The particulate filter is responsible for capturing the soot which is produced by the combustion process. If this filter becomes clogged, then this soot will settle inside the engine and start to contaminate the delicate parts inside. This issue needs to be resolved quickly as if the filter becomes damaged beyond repair, you are likely to be footing an expensive bill.
Damage Level: High
The DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) is located within the exhaust system. As it becomes blocked, so does the flow of exhaust gases. This will result in a big drop in performance and fuel efficiency. A blocked DPF will lead to a build-up of gases and pressure which can cause damage to the exhaust system and even to the engine itself, If the vehicle is being driven and the ECUs detect the DPF is becoming badly clogged, the vehicle may be forced into ‘limp mode’, severely limiting the power of the engine to prevent further damage.
You can also check the other lights on your dashboard and their meanings. CLICK HERE
