Section 19 (Engine Controls - Tests W/O Codes): Introduction

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 11 other vehicles, including the 1997 BMW Z3, 1997 BMW 840Ci, 1997 BMW 740iL, 1997 BMW 740i, and 1997 BMW 540i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Before diagnosing symptoms or intermittent faults, perform steps in appropriate BASIC TESTING and TESTS W/CODES articles below. Use this article to diagnose driveability problems existing when a hard fault code is not present.

Basic tests, see: BASIC TESTING
Diagnostic code tests, see: TESTS W/CODES

NOTE: Some driveability problems may have been corrected by manufacturer with a revised computer control unit. Check with manufacturer for latest chip or computer application.

Symptom checks can direct technician to malfunctioning component(s) for further diagnosis. A symptom should lead to a specific component, system test or an adjustment.

Use intermittent test procedures to locate driveability problems that DO NOT occur when the vehicle is being tested. These test procedures should also be used if a soft (intermittent) trouble code was present, but no problem was found during self-diagnostic testing.

NOTE: For component testing, see SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS article. For specifications, see the ADJUSTMENTS or the SPECIFICATIONS article.