2009 BMW 3 Series Owner's Manual - Page 226

Maintenance Socket for Onboard Diagnosis OBD On the driver's side is an OBD socket for checking components relevant to the composition of the vehicle's emissions. Emissions The warning lamp lights up: The vehicle is producing higher emissions. The trip can be continued. Have the car checked as soon as possible. Canadian models display this warning lamp. The lamp flashes under certain conditions. This indicates excessive misfiring in the engine. If this happens, you should reduce your speed and visit your nearest BMW center as soon as possible. Severe engine misfiring can quickly lead to serious damage of emissions-related components, especially the catalytic converter. The warning lamp comes on if the gas cap is not properly tightened and the OBD system assumes that fuel vapor is escaping. Make sure that the gas cap is correctly positioned and close it until it audibly clicks. Data recorders Your vehicle may be equipped with one or several measuring or diagnostic modules or a device for recording or sending certain vehicle data or information. In addition, if you have signed a service contract for BMW Assist, certain vehicle data may be transmitted or recorded in order to facilitate the corresponding services. 224 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 603 048 - © 08/09 BMW AG