Tech Tip: BMW Fault Code Reader & Service Reset Tool (16 Pin)

How to Use A Fault Code Reader
Part Number: 161390  Vehicles Affected:     2000-2006 BMW  E36/7, E38, E39 2000-2006 BMW E46 2000-2006 BMW E52, E53  2000-2006 BMW E60, E61  2000-2006 BMW E83, E85, E86
	Each year, performing your own service work on a late model BMW becomes more and more challenging. This is due, largely, to successively increasing difficulty for individuals to obtain access to the service reset and fault code information from the manufacturer. Only a few years ago all that was required after a basic service was to reset the service indicator light. This operation was fairly quick - you performed the required service based upon information from a list, and then simply reset the light. On the new generation vehicles, the process is identical. These vehicles, however, will now store and allow retrieval of the actual fault codes that have been triggered and held in memory. The codes help diagnose a component failure that has either occurred at some point in the past, or is currently a problem. In either situation, the tool also allows resetting of the code warning light ("service engine light"). Knowing this information also allows you to better understand your vehicle's service problems before going to the dealer for repairs. And with the power of the internet, you may be able to locate a person that had your same, exact fault code, which may give you the insight to repair the vehicle yourself. Using the tool is simple: The following steps were involved when we did the project on our 2003 BMW  E46 328i.
	Under the dash on the driver's side, we located the Diagnostic connector. The connector has a cover embossed with the letters "OBD". Remove the cover allowing access to the 6-pin connector. Turning the key to the "ON" position (not running). We then plugged our BMP fault code reader into the port. When the tool's display reads "FC" you are ready to activate the "MENU" functions listed in the instruction booklet. The 4 functions consisted of: Read Fault codes RESET "Check engine" or "Service engine soon" RESET "Oil service" RESET "Inspection"
	Naturally, if you are performing a service and there are no fault codes, you would simply reset the service indicator for the service performed and the job is complete. Note: For specific information about what to Change, and Check on your service, consult the "Service and Warranty Information" booklet in your vehicle's glove box. View This Full Article on Our Website:

Tech Tip: BMW Group Fuel System Cleaner Plus

The Problem: Since 2006, there has been a significant increase in various driveability issues due to excessive carbon deposits in engine combustion chambers on intake valves and fuel injectors. These problems are especially apparent on any performance vehicle including all BMW or MINI vehicles in the North American market with a greater level of poor gasoline quality. The solution by BMW North America is regular use of Fuel System Cleaner Plus with  Techron fuel system cleaner.  This product not only cleans restrictive deposits from the fuel system but also protects the fuel gauge from future malfunction by coating all metal surfaces of the system.

Combustion chamber deposit formation is a by-product of the gasoline burning process. This is especially problematic in any vehicle that is driven under severe conditions such as stop-and-go traffic, high ambient temperatures, higher altitudes, and short "start and stop" distance driving. Most common problems experienced include:

• Hesitation during acceleration or loss of power
• Poor fuel efficiency
• Poor driveability and rough idle
• Knocking, pinging, and engine idle surges
• Increased emissions

The Solution: Often times running gas that causes these problems cannot be avoided, but cleaning your fuel system is as easy as adding one bottle of Fuel System Cleaner Plus with  Techron before filling up about every 3000-5000 miles.  One bottle treats up to 20 gallons of fuel and is proven to clean deposits on fuel injectors, ports, and intake valves while causing absolutely no harm to catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, or any mechanical components of the engine or fuel delivery system. While it is true that this additive is not as effective in a turbo charged vehicle with direct injection since it doesn't help clean the intake valves, it still removes deposits from the fuel injectors that restrict normal performance.

BMP Part Number 65740

BMW Part # 82 14 0 413 341

BMW Shock and Strut Removal Socket

Over time, the ride and handling of your vehicle degrades from normal wear and tear on your struts and shocks. Our local service shop regularly replaces several struts and rear shocks on E36 and E46 3-Series BMWs as well as E34 and E39 5-Series BMWs from this type of wear. Routine replacement of these parts is the only way to keep your BMW at its original performance level, and is an excellent way to upgrade your suspension if you are looking for a sportier feel. BMW struts and shocks are simple to replace, but require a proper torque and tightening procedure for the lock nut to avoid damaging or breaking the delicate mounting stud.

Past practice has typically been to use a high speed impact gun to lock down shock center nuts, unfortunately spinning the internal shock components or applying an uneven weight could cause damage to the piston inside the shock.  Improper tightening of the lock nut may also result in breaking of the fragile upper shock center stud. Neither of these conditions would be covered by any manufacturers warranty.

BMP is proud to announce a new tool that makes strut and shock replacement easy and safe with no additional special tools required.  Any 1/2" drive socket wrench and appropriate allen wrench will work with our new Strut Removal Socket.  The factory upper front strut nut is typically 21mm, while most replacement struts or performance struts use a 22mm nut size.  We recommend the 2 piece kit for proper removal and installation of any replacement shock or strut on your model BMW.

21mm socket (Part Number 133128)

22mm socket (Part Number 33129)

Combination 21mm and 22mm socket kit (Part Number 33127)

We recommend replacing strut tower mounts at the time of strut replacement as they wear out with the struts.