Difference between revisions of "Instruments"
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The [[E30]] was fitted with a multi-instrument binacle featuring all the standard clocks and dials expected of a car. A Speedometer, fuel guage and coolant temperature gauge were standard across the range, while all [[M20]] models received a Tachometer (rev counter) and econometer as standard. | The [[E30]] was fitted with a multi-instrument binacle featuring all the standard clocks and dials expected of a car. A Speedometer, fuel guage and coolant temperature gauge were standard across the range, while all [[M20]] models received a Tachometer (rev counter) and econometer as standard. | ||
| − | On the centre console, next to the [[E30 ICE|stereo]] (if fitted) and above the [[Heater_Controls|heater controls]], was the option of a Clock or an On-Board Computer (OBC). The OBC was available as a basic 6-button or an advanced 13-button instrument. | + | On the centre console, next to the [[E30 ICE|stereo]] (if fitted) and above the [[Heater_Controls|heater controls]], was the option of a Clock or an [[Instruments#OBC|On-Board Computer]] (OBC). The OBC was available as a basic 6-button or an advanced 13-button instrument. |
Above the rear view mirror of [[M20]] models was a check panel, which warned the driver of any problems with lights and fluids. | Above the rear view mirror of [[M20]] models was a check panel, which warned the driver of any problems with lights and fluids. | ||
=Dash Cluster= | =Dash Cluster= | ||
| + | |||
| + | The dash cluster is a one-piece circuit board inside a plastic shell, mounted to the [[Interior#Dashboard|dashboard]]. It receives its information through three plugs (white, blue and optional green) connected to the rear of the circuit board. | ||
| + | |||
| + | To control a number of the instruments, batteries are fitted to the back of the circuit board. Many problems associated with the dash cluster are caused by failing or leaking batteries which need to be replaced. Learn more about [http://www.e30zone.net/e30zonewiki/images/7/7f/Dash_battery.PDF replacing SI batteries] | ||
| + | |||
| + | Inside each dash cluster is a coding plug, which is specific to each engine, be it a [[E30_Engines|4-cylinder or 6-cylinder]] unit. When replacing your dash cluster with that from a different model, it is an incorrect coding plug that causes instrument problems. | ||
| + | |||
| + | Learn more about [[Instrument_Cluster_Replacement|replacing your Dash Cluster]]. | ||
| + | Learn more about [http://www.e30zone.net/e30zonewiki/images/3/3f/TechJul01.pdf Changing your dials]. | ||
==Speedometer== | ==Speedometer== | ||
| + | |||
| + | The speedometer takes its reading from a pulse generator in the [[E30_Differentials|differential]]. This is a very simple sensor and very rarely breaks; however the plug from the sensor is exposed to the road, and the wires very often corrode and break. If your speedo isn't working, cut off the plug and 30cm of wire from the differential sensor, and replace. | ||
===Odometer=== | ===Odometer=== | ||
| Line 14: | Line 25: | ||
==Temp Gauge== | ==Temp Gauge== | ||
| + | |||
| + | The E30 temperature gauge is not linear - it's compressed at each end, with the whole centre section, from just clear of the blue to just before the red, covering just a few degrees. The needle anywhere is this whole section is fine, according to BMW. In practice, E30's have the needle just past the 1/4 mark, or almost exactly on the centre mark, depending, presumably, on the thermostat fitted. | ||
==Tachometer== | ==Tachometer== | ||
| Line 19: | Line 32: | ||
===Econometer=== | ===Econometer=== | ||
| − | ==Inspection Lights== | + | ==Dash Lights== |
| + | |||
| + | ===Check Light=== | ||
| + | |||
| + | Some cars, specifically US and European models, were fitted with a CHECK light in the centre of the dash cluster. If a fault displayed on the [[Instruments#Check_Panel|check panel]], then the CHECK light would flash to warn the driver of the fault. The CHECK light would stop flashing once the Check button was pressed on the check panel. | ||
| + | |||
| + | It is sometimes possible to check [[Motronic]] faults using the CHECK light. Learn more about [[Motronic_Fault_Codes|Motronic fault codes]]. | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Brake Lights=== | ||
| + | |||
| + | For those cars fitted with brake pad sensors, a [[Brake_Pad_Sensor_Light|flickering light]] is a known issue. | ||
| + | ===Indicators=== | ||
| + | ===Inspection Lights=== | ||
| + | |||
| + | |||
=OBC= | =OBC= | ||
| + | '''Main article: [[On-board_Computer|13-button OBC]] | ||
=Check Panel= | =Check Panel= | ||
| + | |||
| + | [[Category| Technical]] | ||
| + | [[Category| Electrical]] | ||
Revision as of 09:47, 6 October 2011
The E30 was fitted with a multi-instrument binacle featuring all the standard clocks and dials expected of a car. A Speedometer, fuel guage and coolant temperature gauge were standard across the range, while all M20 models received a Tachometer (rev counter) and econometer as standard.
On the centre console, next to the stereo (if fitted) and above the heater controls, was the option of a Clock or an On-Board Computer (OBC). The OBC was available as a basic 6-button or an advanced 13-button instrument.
Above the rear view mirror of M20 models was a check panel, which warned the driver of any problems with lights and fluids.
Contents
Dash Cluster
The dash cluster is a one-piece circuit board inside a plastic shell, mounted to the dashboard. It receives its information through three plugs (white, blue and optional green) connected to the rear of the circuit board.
To control a number of the instruments, batteries are fitted to the back of the circuit board. Many problems associated with the dash cluster are caused by failing or leaking batteries which need to be replaced. Learn more about replacing SI batteries
Inside each dash cluster is a coding plug, which is specific to each engine, be it a 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder unit. When replacing your dash cluster with that from a different model, it is an incorrect coding plug that causes instrument problems.
Learn more about replacing your Dash Cluster. Learn more about Changing your dials.
Speedometer
The speedometer takes its reading from a pulse generator in the differential. This is a very simple sensor and very rarely breaks; however the plug from the sensor is exposed to the road, and the wires very often corrode and break. If your speedo isn't working, cut off the plug and 30cm of wire from the differential sensor, and replace.
Odometer
Fuel Gauge
Temp Gauge
The E30 temperature gauge is not linear - it's compressed at each end, with the whole centre section, from just clear of the blue to just before the red, covering just a few degrees. The needle anywhere is this whole section is fine, according to BMW. In practice, E30's have the needle just past the 1/4 mark, or almost exactly on the centre mark, depending, presumably, on the thermostat fitted.
Tachometer
Econometer
Dash Lights
Check Light
Some cars, specifically US and European models, were fitted with a CHECK light in the centre of the dash cluster. If a fault displayed on the check panel, then the CHECK light would flash to warn the driver of the fault. The CHECK light would stop flashing once the Check button was pressed on the check panel.
It is sometimes possible to check Motronic faults using the CHECK light. Learn more about Motronic fault codes.
Brake Lights
For those cars fitted with brake pad sensors, a flickering light is a known issue.
Indicators
Inspection Lights
OBC
Main article: 13-button OBC
