1993 BMW 525i Panel Board Warinings Amok!

1993 BMW 525I
320,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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DENISENAUMAN
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My husband just changed the fuel pump and filter in my 1993 525I, but the check engine lite is still on. Of course, the "coolant level is low" lite flicks on every now and then ( there is coolant in it) as well as the "windshield wiper fluid is low" lite (again, fluid in it!) And every now and then the time and temperature comes up.....lasts for about three minutes, and I see it every couple of weeks...then POOF......gone!

In other words I think that my "electrical system" needs rebooted. Is there some way we can do that? The car is running PERFECTLY!

thanks!
Denise
Apr 20, 2009 at 10:58 AM
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DOCHAGERTY
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The early production M-50 motor would have the check engine light on for only a few reasons, the first of which is possibly an oxygen sensor, and at 320k miles it may need one. As to the instrument cluster, I am not sure what the fix is going to be, but it would start with checking the inputs from the coolant level sensor and from the washer reservoir. Those sending units are prone to failure in your older BMW. Then, the possibility exists that the cluster itself is crazy and can not be cured of the disease which plagues some semi conductors and the devices built with them. As to the temperature indicator in the instrument cluster going up, please tell me what you mean by up, is it to the limit line or is it to the red zone? If it is to the limit line, that is normal operation because it is an analog gauge and reads what the temperature really is instead of an estimated reading from some mathematical derivative, so do not ignore it. This may simply be an indicator that the fan clutch may be weak and if it fails muster it should be considered for replacement.
Apr 20, 2009 at 12:02 PM
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DENISENAUMAN
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When I say that the time and temperature "come up" I mean that every now and then it lites up on my dash (like,where it says Coolant level low) The time and the temperature outside. Sorry, I didn't mean to confuse you. I just wanted to give you an indication of the fact that the instrument cluster has "issues". The temperature indicator of the car itself is always normal.....never overheats or anything like that.

One other thing to note, I have no heat or air conditioning. The guy I bought it from said it was a fan problem, but now, with what you are telling me here, I am wondering if the lack of heat and A/C might have something to do with ALL of this????

thanks! You have been VERY helpful!
Apr 20, 2009 at 1:53 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
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OK, the reason the HVAC is inop is due to the failure of the final stage or the sword as it so affectionately known. Part number 64-11-8-390-015 and lists for $517.00 There are alternatives, try the salvage yards. Or go to Realoem.com
Apr 20, 2009 at 2:14 PM
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DENISENAUMAN
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$517?????

I only paid $1000 for the car!!

Other alternative are to wear a VERY warm coat in the winter, and open the windows and sun roof over the summer!!!!

SMILE

Thanks!!!!
Apr 20, 2009 at 3:00 PM