Another E36 Question...

[Zerotonine]

When you have the key turned to ignition 1 and you press the tripmeter reset button, the clocks come up with a code. I hear its supposed to be the last digits of VIN, what do the other 5 things mean when if you keep pressing the button? On one of them the dial needles all go to top then drop again. Anyone know?

[darkchild]

I know as much as you I'm afraid. One, as you correctly state, is the last few digits of the chassis number. I've no idea what the other numbers are. Someone who works at a dealers may know.

[Zerotonine]

Ah well. I'll find out somehow.

[peejay]

Apparently you should be able to access 15 informative stages. Things like service history, mileage covered plus its a check system that certain functions are in order.

Sorry don't know any more than that.

PJ.

[Zerotonine]

mine had 6 before it went back to normal, but never been able to do it again. Thanks for your wisdom.

[johnono]

i think its milage stored in the ecu, the next till oil, insp 1, insp 2, or something like that ?

[Zerotonine]

I haven't been able to make it go through the different numbers since! It could be something to do with that

[johnono]

when you start the sequence off dont press any buttons, just let it run.

the sequence with play out, then do a dial check with the needles (flaaash )

i can find out what the sequence is if you have trouble tracking it down

[jcjdavis1]

A neat feature of the gauge cluster is the self-test function. This is used by the BMW dealers to diagnose various problems with the cluster, and also to test the various instrument modules. To activate the diagnostic mode, press and hold the odometer button. Then turn the ignition switch to the radio position, which is the first position on the ignition switch. The display should read something like “tESt 01.â€a Once you see that message, let go of the odometer button. The instrument cluster will then cycle through some test cycles and display some numbers. Here is what they mean:

First display: BMW part number (six digits)

Second display: code number (five digits)—athe internal coding plug number

Third display: K number (four digits)

Fourth display: chassis number (five digits)©part of your BMW's VIN number

Fifth display: software version (three digits)

Sixth display: revision index (two digits)—ahardware number

After all of the information is displayed, a set of tests of the analog gauges will be performed. You can also use this test/diagnostic mode to reset your odometer. See www.101Projects.com/BMW/95.htm for more details on this procedure.

[Zerotonine]

Cheers thank you very much I will remember that and have another look tomorrow!