Operation, maintenance -> OBD interface socket for your BMW 3 Series 1997-2006

Laws and regulations  
130 California Proposition 65 warning  
OBD interface socket  
California laws require us to state the  
following warning:  
Engine exhaust, some of its con-  
stituents, and certain vehicle com-  
ponents contain or emit chemicals  
known to the State of California to  
cause cancer and birth defects and  
reproductive harm. In addition, certain  
fluids contained in vehicles and certain  
products of component wear contain or  
emit chemicals known to the State of  
California to cause cancer and birth  
defects or other reproductive harm.  
Battery posts, terminals and related  
accessories contain lead and lead com-  
pounds. Wash your hands after hand-  
ling.  
The Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) inter-  
face socket is located on the left of the  
driver's side at the bottom of the instru-  
ment panel and under a cover. The  
cover has the letters OBD on it.  
The purpose of the OBD system is to  
assure proper emission-control system  
operation for the vehicle's lifetime by  
monitoring emission-related compo-  
nents and systems for deterioration and  
malfunction.  
Used engine oil contains chemicals that  
have caused cancer in laboratory ani-  
mals. Always protect your skin by  
washing thoroughly with soap and  
water.<  
An illuminated indicator informs  
you of the need for service, not  
that you need to stop the vehi-  
cle. However, the systems should be  
checked by your BMW center at the  
earliest possible opportunity.  
OBD interface socket  
131  
If the indicator blinks or flashes, this  
indicates a high level of engine misfire.  
Reduce speed and contact your near-  
est BMW center immediately. Severe  
engine misfiring for even a short period  
of time can seriously damage emission-  
control system components, especially  
the catalytic converter.  
Service Engine Soon warning  
lamp for Canadian models.  
If the fuel filler cap is not on tight  
enough, the OBD system can  
detect leaking vapor and the indicator  
will light up. If the fuel filler cap is then  
tightened, the indicator will usually go  
out after a short period of time.<