Electronic Control Module Incorrect Coding
1996-1999 BMW 318i E36 1.9L I4 M44
Description
The DME has detected that its internal coding does not match the vehicle configuration. This can occur after DME replacement, software update failure, or programming error. The DME variant coding must match the installed engine, transmission, and equipment.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Various system malfunctions
- Engine may run poorly
- Incorrect feature operation
- Emissions system faults
Common Causes
- DME recently replaced without proper coding
- Software update interrupted or failed
- Incorrect DME installed for vehicle
- Coding data corrupted
- Battery disconnected during programming
Diagnostic Steps
- Read DME coding data with BMW diagnostic tool
- Compare coding to vehicle equipment list
- Check for interrupted software updates
- Verify DME part number matches vehicle
- Attempt recoding with correct data
Repair Notes
Recode the DME with the correct variant coding using BMW ISTA or equivalent diagnostic software.
Related Codes
Other Powertrain Codes
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0011Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0012Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0013Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0014Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0015Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P1612 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P1612 mean on a 1996-1999 BMW 318i E36?
P1612 stands for "Electronic Control Module Incorrect Coding". The DME has detected that its internal coding does not match the vehicle configuration. This can occur after DME replacement, software update failure, or programming error. The DME variant coding must match the installed engine, transmission, and equipment.
What are the symptoms of P1612 on a BMW 318i E36?
Common symptoms of P1612 include: Check Engine Light, Various system malfunctions, Engine may run poorly, Incorrect feature operation, Emissions system faults.
What causes P1612 on a 1996-1999 BMW 318i E36?
Common causes of P1612 include: DME recently replaced without proper coding, Software update interrupted or failed, Incorrect DME installed for vehicle, Coding data corrupted, Battery disconnected during programming.