BMW fault code 0042
Engine electronics
In the engine electronics, code 0042 means different things depending on the version of the module in the car. Find your car below; the app shows the right one for yours.
Catalyst damaging misfire cylinder 4
Module versions: Motor Electronics (DM5212R5), Motor Electronics (DM5212R6), Motor Electronics (DM528DS3)
In: 5 Series (E39) 1995–2003, 7 Series (E38) 1994–2001, X5 (E53) 1999–2006
Line fault DWA/EWS input (short circuit or open circuit)
Module versions: Motor Electronics (DM338DS0), Motor Electronics (DM338DS1)
In: 7 Series (E38) 1994–2001
Misfire detection catalytic converter damaging cylinder 4 OBDII error !!
Module versions: Motor Electronics (DM524DS0), Motor Electronics (DM528DS0)
In: 3 Series (E36) 1990–2000, 5 Series (E39) 1995–2003, 7 Series (E38) 1994–2001, X5 (E53) 1999–2006
EWS interface
Module version: Motor Electronics (BMSS501)
In: 3 Series (E36) 1990–2000
DDE: DDE contr. module (EEPROM and configuration)
Module version: Digital Diesel Electronics (DDE30DS0)
Which BMWs have this version depends on the engine and equipment, so we don't list them here; AutoLingo for BMW reads which version your car has.
DME: Control-module self-test, plausibilization 4
Module version: Motor Electronics (MS430DS0)
In: 3 Series (E36) 1990–2000, 3 Series (E46) 1998–2006, 5 Series (E39) 1998–2003, X3 (E83) 2003–2010, X5 (E53) 1999–2006, Z4 (E85) 2002–2008
DME: EWS interface: no communication
Module version: Motor Electronics (MSS54DS0)
In: 3 Series (E46) 1998–2006
Reading and clearing it
Fault code 0042 is a BMW code, stored in the car's engine electronics, not a generic OBD2 code (P0xxx): a generic OBD2 reader only reaches the engine's emissions faults, so it won't show it. AutoLingo for BMW reads it with BMW's own diagnostic protocols, in plain English, with the details the module stored about it, and clears it after a repair. If a fault comes right back after it's cleared, the problem is still there.
The engine electronics is on: 8 Series (E31), 5 Series (E34), 3 Series (E36), Z3 (E36/7), 7 Series (E38), 5 Series (E39), 3 Series (E46), Z8 (E52), X5 (E53), X3 (E83), Z4 (E85), Z4 (E86)
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