BMW fault code 0081
Engine electronics
In the engine electronics, code 0081 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.
DME: Request, CAN EGS
Module versions: Motor Electronics (BMS46DS0), Motor Electronics (BMS46DS1)
In: 3 Series (E36) 1990–2000, 3 Series (E46) 1998–2006
DME: Signal CAN SMG 1
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: Catalytic-converter protection function as result of empty tank or lack of fuel
Module version: Motor Electronics (MSS54DS0)
In: 3 Series (E46) 1998–2006
Reading and clearing it
Fault code 0081 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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