Help ! Code reading.

[Ryan atkins]

I’ve got a 1998 z3 2.8 with the 20 pin diag socket under the bonnet.

As of today it’s developed a strange missfire.
First time was at around 4,500 rpm and I watched the Rev counter drop off and come back and then the second time was just at 1500 rpm and the car just missed and then carried on fine.
I’m a tech myself and have been trying to find a way of reading the codes but currently unable to connect with the vehicle. My friend has a adaptor and DIS but that wouldn’t read the car either.
Has anyone on here got a code reader and adaptor that works so I could purchase one. Or is anyone local to me that would let me read the codes for a drink ?

Thanks Ryan.

 

[t-tony]

Where is Yapton Ryan?

Tony.

 

[Ryan atkins]

Ha ha sorry yapton is in West Sussex,
South coast in between Brighton and Portsmouth.

 

[t-tony]

Hey mate, I hope there's someone local to help you out mate. TBH it does sound like a crankshaft sensor issue but don't bank on that. Good luck.

Tony.

 

[Ryan atkins]

Thanks for the reply.
Also do all z3’s have a eml light ?
I don’t get one with even just ignition on

 

[t-tony]

Thanks for the reply.
Also do all z3’s have a eml light ?
I don’t get one with even just ignition on

Possibly there is a bulb out in the display mate. Easy enough to remove the instruments to check though.

Tony.

 

[andyglym]

A long shot but the earlier Z3's sometimes only recognise the code reader with the ignition on, not engine, and then plug in as apposed to plug in then ignition on. That's the case with mine.

 

[MRH1966]

Hi Ryan. We are in Lewes if that is any good for you? We have INPA . If you have an old laptop and the leads, I am sure my son would be able to get it connected for you.

 

[roadvoyager1]

You can buy INPA software and cables from https://www.bcables.com. Choose the correct options for your car or phone them if unsure.
it runs on a laptop as a virtual machine and is somewhat clunky to use, but if you use the 20 pin socket allows you to look at diagnostics in most of the control modules.

 

[Ryan atkins]

Thank you everyone for your replies.

I’ve sourced a snap on scanner so fingers crossed that will read it. I’m booked onto Bedford for 1st December. Just typical it happens now.

Thanks Ryan.

 

[motco]

I just had to read the codes on my 2.2 and it was a simple matter. Connected the reader, switched on ignition, scrolled to the codes, cleared the codes. Bob's your uncle! Misfire on Nos.3&6 probably due to lack of use recently. Okay now I think.

Sorry, nowhere near Yapton...

 

[Mazza]

Hi Ryan
Sorry for not replying sooner....just seen this

I have a code reader and the 20 pin adaptor lead if you need to borrow it.

I will be going over to Ford Indoor Football Arena tonight so could drop it in

I will also soon have a Laptop with the INPA program on it, which you are welcome to borrow anytime.

 

[Ryan atkins]

Thanks mazza I’ve just sent you a text.

 

[Jack Ratt]

https://www.bimmerforums.co.uk/forum/f99/bmw-inpa-diagnostics-idiots-guide-getting-started-t85220/

If your car is pre facelift you may experience difficulties with some diagnostic scanners. If you have a facelift car it may be easier. Have a look at the above link. It will tell you what you need.