Airbag and diagnostic early '98 1.9 Z3

[stratos]

Hello all
Many threads cover this but I'm having trouble nailing down the answers to be specific to my car. So---
Battery failed completely and new one installed Before turning key to start all warning lights test and extinguish except airbag which goes out for 1 second then lights again and stays on during and after start.
I'm guessing (hoping) warning is spurious as others have found and a reset will cure it.
My choices are ;- PAY a garage to try a reset.
Use the saving to find a reset device on ebay or other
Buy a suitable diagnostic tool to cover more fault codes, at a realistic cost.
My problem is I am basically computer illiterate! and so complicated software use and loading is beyond me as is the terminology used so must be virtually plug and play.
Appreciate recommendations from owners of this model or can buy from anyone getting rid of any reader kit

Z3 1.9 140hp 1st reg March 1998 Only have 20 pin socket in engine bay and I only have 20/16 adapter cable from ebay
Thanks in advance Chris

 

[NZ00Z3]

What you need is a forum member who is local to you that has the right diagnostic kit.

There are 2 parts to the repair job:
1) Reading the trouble codes from the Airbag module. You then know what to fix.
2) If you replace the airbag module, you have to code the new module to the car.

Your car sounds like it has a build date of before 03/98, which may make the reading of the codes a bit tricky. See this thread. https://zroadster.org/threads/how-to-scan-early-model-z3s-pre-build-date-03-98.39937/

An airbag light coming up just after a battery change sounds like this problem. You'll need to read the trouble codes to confirm. https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/...nal-Error-(F0-240-errors)-Finally-found-a-fix!

 

[stratos]

NZ00Z3 Thanks for all My late mother born in Timaru would also have applauded your reply.
I have perused your links as well and am scared stiff as to what can happen but we shall see when I get a suitable software pack on it.
Can I try to reset all codes just to see what happens without investigating?
Thanks again for so much info -invaluable.
Anyone closer to me next to Gatwick airport able to help with the special equipment please?
Chris

 

[stratos]

Was looking at Foxwell nt530 but prices vary and many scammers out there.
Local member has offered to take a look (my other thread) so hopefully can resolve it.
Will report back but any other advice wellcome

 

[stratos]

Kind local member diagnosed fault code. Underseat drivers side plugs disconnected and connected Code reset-- cured! Will get myself my own setup to read codes

 

[NZ00Z3]

Excellent news.

I love it when forum members come together to sort out a Z3 problem.

 

[stratos]

Thanks you started it !

 

[MRH1966]

It was the seat belt pre-tensioner........the cable tie holding it on had come loose......reconnected the cable at the top.....new cable tie.......cleared the codes........all good..........happy to help out. We cleared all the codes to start with and none came back after the fix.

 

[Daspete]

I have the foxwell NT530. Great bit of kit, you can fault find and clear codes on the airbag system and ABS. You can bleed the ABS pump with it which is useful. Simple to use, I'm useless with computers too.

I found with the module if you buy the exact same part number from a similar specced car you will have no issues. No coding, plug it in and clear the codes. Job done hardest part is removing the centre console lol

 

[stratos]

Thanks Daspete May try to learn INPA as cheaper option and
MRH1966 Exactly! Like you said. Grateful thanks.