Electronic switching or control units

In this manual: Electronic switching or control units
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air conditioning and heating — 1Air conditioner refrigerant — 1Refrigeration oil — 1Note, overview components climate control — 1Heater with operation — 1Auxiliary. heater with control elements — 1Nozzles and outlets — 1Microfilter — 1Air conditioning, leak detection — 1Ac housing/evaporator, switching elements — 1Compressor — 1Condenser and dryer with lines — 1Heating and air conditioning — 1Front axle repair instructions — 1Front axle suspension — 1Front sub-frame — 1Struts with rubber mounts — 1Wheel bearings and stub axle — 1Spring strut — 1Spring with suspension — 1Stabilizer bar — 1Front axle gearbox — 1Front axle — 1General information on high temperature multi-purpose grease — 1Integrated suspension systems repair instructions — 1Front control and suspension elements — 1Rear control and suspension elements — 1Electrical components — 1Electronic damping force adjustment — 1Integrated suspension systems — 1Approved hydraulic fluids — 1Rear axle repair instructions — 1Final drive — 1Final drive with cover — 1Final drive mounting — 1Output shafts — 1Rear sub-frame — 1Control arms and struts — 1Axle mounting — 1Wheel bearings — 1Shock absorber — 1Springs with suspension — 1Stabilizer bar — 1Rear axle — 1General information on final drive oil — 1Approved final drive oils for front and rear axle final drives with and without limited slip or viscous coupling — 1Final drive oil for bmw m1 motorsport coupe — 1Operating fluids as of 11/2015 — 1Electronic chassis alignment — 1Mechanical steering gear — 1Steering gear with servo unit — 1Steering arms, tie rods, steer. damper — 1Steering column — 1Steering wheel — 1Steering wheel for airbag — 1Pump and oil supply — 1Steering and wheel alignment — 1Wheels — 1Disc wheels (rims) — 1Tires — 1Wheels with tires — 1Tire mounting paste — 1Engine mounting — 1Transmission suspension, automatic. transmission — 1Engine and gearbox suspension — 1Transmission in general — 1Transmission case, oil sump — 1Extension housing, bearings, seal — 1Mechanical attachments — 1Hydr/el control components/elements — 1Oil pump — 1Shift valves, parking lock — 1Torque converter — 1Automatic transmission — 1Automatic transmission fluid for zf-transmission GA8HP45Z / GA8HP50Z / GA8HP70Z / GA8HP90Z / GA8P70H / GA8P75H / GA8HP75Z — 1General information on automatic transmission fluids — 1Approved automatic transmission fluids for initial fillings and correcting fluid levels — 1Checking transmission fluid level — 1Transmission fluid change intervals (if applicable) — 1Transfer case, general — 1Transfer box — 1Transmission shafts — 1Transfer box special tools — 1Transfer box in general (atc 45l) — 1Transmission in general — 1Bearing in housing, sealing ring — 1SELF-DIAGNOSTICS DTCS — 1
~14min read
  • Coding control module (dme/dde)
  • Removing/replacing knock sensor (1st and 2nd cylinder) (N20, N26)
  • Removing/replacing knock sensor (3rd and 4th cylinder) (N20, N26)
  • Removing/replacing knock sensors (N52T)
  • Removing/replacing knock sensors (N55)
  • Replacing (dde) control unit (N47 D20 O1)
  • Replacing control unit (dme) (N20, N26)
  • Replacing control unit (dme) (N52T)
  • Replacing control unit (dme) (N55)
  • Replacing crankshaft pulse sensor (N20, N26)
  • Replacing crankshaft pulse sensor (N52T)
  • Replacing crankshaft pulse sensor (N55)
  • Replacing pulse sensor on exhaust camshaft (N20)
  • Replacing pulse sensor on exhaust camshaft (N52T)
  • Replacing pulse sensor on exhaust camshaft (N55)
  • Replacing pulse sensor on intake camshaft (N20)
  • Replacing pulse sensor on intake camshaft (N55)
  • Replacing suction pressure sensor on intake plenum (N20, N26)
  • Replacing suction pressure sensor on intake plenum (N55)
  • Replacing suction pressure sensor on pressure pipe (N20, N26)

Coding control module (dme/dde)

Switch on ignition.

Connect MoDiC or DIS/GT1 Tester.

Select "Coding" program.

For subsequent procedure, follow instructions in MoDiC or DIS/GT1 Tester.

Carry out adjustment of following control units:

  • EWS (electronic immobilizer)
  • DME (Digital Motor Electronics) or
  • DDE (Digital Diesel Electronics)

Refer to "Diagnosis and Coding" service information bulletins on subject of coding.

PROGRAMMING CONTROL UNIT (DME/DDE)

Switch on ignition.

Connect MoDiC or DIS/GT1 Tester.

Select "Programming".

For subsequent procedure, follow instructions in MoDiC or DIS/GT1 Tester.

Carry out adjustment of following control units:

  • EWS (electronic immobilizer)
  • DME (Digital Motor Electronics) or
  • DDE (Digital Diesel Electronics)

Refer to "Diagnosis and Coding" service information bulletins on subject of programming.

Removing/replacing knock sensor (1st and 2nd cylinder) (N20, N26)

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove THROTTLE VALVE ASSEMBLY .

Unlock connector (1) and remove.

Release bolt (2) on knock sensor.

Remove knock sensor for 1st and 2nd cylinder.

Electrical

Installation note:

Clean contact surface of knock sensors on engine block.

Electrical

NOTE: Reassemble the vehicle.

Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

Removing/replacing knock sensor (3rd and 4th cylinder) (N20, N26)

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove STARTER MOTOR.

Unlock connector (1) and remove.

Release bolt (2) on knock sensor.

Remove knock sensor for 3rd and 4th cylinders.

Electrical

Installation note:

Clean contact surface of knock sensor on engine block.

Electrical

NOTE: Reassemble the vehicle.

Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

Removing/replacing knock sensors (N52T)

IMPORTANT: Aluminum-magnesium materials.

No steel screws/bolts may be used due to the threat of electrochemical corrosion.

A magnesium crankcase requires aluminum screws/bolts exclusively.

Aluminum screws/bolts must be replaced each time they are released .

Aluminum screws/bolts are permitted with and without color coding (blue).

For reliable identification: Aluminum screws/bolts are not magnetic .

Jointing torque and angle of rotation must be observed without fail (risk of damage) .

Necessary preliminary work:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove INTAKE PLENUM .

Unlock connector (1) and remove.

Electrical

Release screws on both knock sensors (1) and remove knock sensors (1).

Installation note:

Replace aluminum screws.

Electrical

Installation note:

Clean contact surface of knock sensors on engine block.

Electrical

NOTE: Check stored fault messages.

Clear diagnostic fault entries from fault memory.

Removing/replacing knock sensors (N55)

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove INTAKE PLENUM .
  • Vehicles with the Bosch high pressure pump only :

Remove HIGH PRESSURE PUMP .

Unlock connector (1) and remove.

Feed out connector (1) behind feed line, remove FEED LINE if necessary.

Electrical

Release screws on both knock sensors (1) and remove knock sensors (1).

Electrical

Installation note:

Clean contact surface of knock sensors on engine block.

Electrical

NOTE: Reassemble the vehicle.

Check stored error/fault messages.

Clear diagnostic fault entries from fault memory.

Replacing (dde) control unit (N47 D20 O1)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with NOTES on protection against electrostatic damage (ESD protection).

Necessary preliminary work:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DDE control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD .
  • FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS FOR REMOVING AND INSTALLING CONTROL UNITS.

Replacement:

  • Carry out programming/encoding.
  • If no data can be read out from the previous control unit, carry out injection quantity compensation (description at end of instructions).

IMPORTANT: It is absolutely essential to read out the fault memory with the BMW diagnosis system and to create a fault memory printout.

Switch off ignition.

Release screws (1).

Detach coolant hose from cover of electronics box.

Remove electronics box cover (3).

Electrical

Unlock all connectors (1) from control unit and disconnect.

Detach rubber grommets (2) from electronics box. Place wiring harnesses to the side.

Installation note:

Make sure grommets are correctly fitted (watertightness).

Electrical

Release retainers (1) on control unit.

Pull out control unit (2) towards top.

Electrical

Injector adjustment:

If the DDE control unit has been replaced, it will also be necessary to carry out injection quantity compensation! The adjustment value (7-position letter/number code) is engraved on each injector.

Enter the numbers/letters according to the installation position (cylinder) of the injectors.

Electrical
  • Select "DDE".
  • Select "Adjustment, injection quantity compensation"
  • Select "Test plan"

The adjustment must be entered for each injector.

It is necessary to adjust the injectors to ensure their full operability.

NOTE: Check stored fault messages.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing control unit (dme) (N20, N26)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on protection against electrostatic damage (ESD protection)

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Switch off ignition.
  • Disconnect BATTERY NEGATIVE LEAD .
  • Remove ACOUSTIC COVER

IMPORTANT: Follow INSTRUCTIONS for removing and installing control units

Replacement:

  • Carry out programming/encoding
  • If no data can be read out from the previous control unit, carry out injection quantity compensation (description at end of instructions).

IMPORTANT: It is absolutely essential to read out the fault memory with the BMW diagnosis system and to create a fault memory printout.

Switch off ignition.

Unlock and pull off all connectors (1) from the DME control unit (2).

Release screws.

Remove DME control unit.

Electrical

Injection quantity compensation:

If the DME control unit has been replaced, it will also be necessary to carry out adjustment of the injectors! Injection quantity compensation is carried out with the aid of so-called adjustment values.

The adjustment value is printed on each injector in three digits.

The adjustment values must be stored in the new control unit! If injector quantity compensation is not carried out, the engine may run roughly or fail to start.

Read off the adjustment values and enter according to the installation location (cylinder) of the injectors:

  • Connect BMW diagnosis system
  • Identify vehicle
  • Select "Function selection"
  • Select "Service functions"
Electrical
  • Select "Engine electronics"
  • Select "Adjustment function"
  • Select "Adjust injectors"
  • Select "Test plan"
  • The adjustment value must be entered for each cylinder.

NOTE: Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing control unit (dme) (N52T)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD PROTECTION)

Necessary preliminary work:

  • Switch off ignition.
  • Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD .
  • Remove ACOUSTIC COVER

IMPORTANT: FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS FOR REMOVING AND INSTALLING CONTROL UNITS.

Replacement:

  • CARRY OUT PROGRAMMING/ENCODING

IMPORTANT: It is absolutely essential to read out the fault memory with the BMW diagnosis system and to create a fault memory printout.

Switch off ignition.

Unlock all plugs from control unit (1) and detach.

Unfasten screws (2).

Remove control unit.

Electrical

NOTE: Check stored fault messages.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing control unit (dme) (N55)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD protection).

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Switch off ignition.
  • Disconnect BATTERY NEGATIVE LEAD .
  • Remove INTAKE PLENUM .

IMPORTANT: FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS FOR REMOVING AND INSTALLING CONTROL UNITS.

Replacement:

  • Carry out programming/encoding
  • If no data can be read out from the previous control unit, carry out injection quantity compensation (description at end of instructions).

IMPORTANT: It is absolutely essential to read out the fault memory with the BMW diagnosis system and to create a fault memory printout.

Switch off ignition.

Release screws (1).

Electrical

Release screws (1).

Remove control unit from intake plenum.

Installation note:

Renew gasket between intake plenum and control unit.

Electrical

Injection quantity compensation:

If the DME control unit has been replaced, it will also be necessary to carry out adjustment of the injectors! Injection quantity compensation is carried out with the aid of so-called adjustment values.

The adjustment value is printed on each injector in three digits.

If necessary, remove EMC panel.

The adjustment values must be stored in the new control unit! If injector quantity compensation is not carried out, the engine may run roughly or fail to start.

Read off the adjustment values and enter according to the installation location (cylinder) of the injectors:

  • Connect BMW diagnosis system
  • Identify vehicle
  • Select "Function selection"
  • Select "Service functions"
  • Select "Engine electronics"
  • Select "Adjustment function"
  • Select "Adjust injectors"
  • Select "Test plan"
  • The adjustment value must be entered for each cylinder.
Electrical

NOTE: Check stored fault message.

Clear diagnostic fault entries from fault memory.

Replacing crankshaft pulse sensor (N20, N26)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD PROTECTION) .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove STARTER MOTOR.

Unlock connector (1) and remove.

Release screw (2).

Remove connector housing from crankcase.

Release screw (3).

Pull pulse sensor from crankcase and remove.

Electrical

Installation note:

During installation of pulse sensor make sure that guide pin (1) of pulse sensor is inserted in guiding groove (2) of crankcase.

Electrical

NOTE: Assemble engine.

Check stored fault message.

Clear diagnostic fault entries from fault memory.

Replacing crankshaft pulse sensor (N52T)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD PROTECTION) .

IMPORTANT: Aluminum-magnesium materials.

No steel screws/bolts may be used due to the threat of electrochemical corrosion.

A magnesium crankcase requires aluminum screws/bolts exclusively.

Aluminum screws/bolts must be replaced each time they are released .

Aluminum screws/bolts are permitted with and without color coding (blue).

For reliable identification: Aluminum screws/bolts are not magnetic .

Jointing torque and angle of rotation must be observed without fail (risk of damage) .

Necessary preliminary work:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove INTAKE PLENUM .

NOTE: Installation location of pulse sensor for crankshaft is underneath starter motor.

Detach plug (1) from crankshaft pulse sensor (2).

Release screw.

Installation note:

Replace aluminum screws.

Electrical

Withdraw pulse sensor (2) from crankcase.

Installation note:

Replace sealing ring.

NOTE: Check stored fault messages.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing crankshaft pulse sensor (N55)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD PROTECTION) .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove STARTER MOTOR.

Unlock connector (1) and remove.

Release screw (2).

Remove connector housing from crankcase.

Release screw (3).

Pull pulse sensor from crankcase and remove.

Electrical

Installation note:

During installation of pulse sensor make sure that guide pin (1) of pulse sensor is inserted in guiding groove (2) of crankcase.

Electrical

NOTE: Assemble engine.

Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing pulse sensor on exhaust camshaft (N20)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD PROTECTION) .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.

Unlock connector (1) and remove.

Release screw (2).

Remove pulse sensor (2).

Check gasket, renew damaged gasket.

Electrical

NOTE: Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing pulse sensor on exhaust camshaft (N52T)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD PROTECTION) .

Necessary preliminary work:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove ACOUSTIC COVER

Release screw (1).

Release holder (2) from cylinder head.

Electrical

Release connector (1) and remove.

Release screw.

Installation note:

Replace screw.

Remove pulse sensor (2).

Installation note:

Replace gasket.

Electrical

NOTE: Check stored fault messages.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing pulse sensor on exhaust camshaft (N55)

IMPORTANT: Aluminum screws/bolts must be replaced each time they are released .

Aluminum screws/bolts are permitted with and without color coding (blue).

For reliable identification: Jointing torque and angle of rotation must be observed without fail (risk of damage) .

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DAMAGE (ESD PROTECTION) .

Necessary preliminary work:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove FAN COWL .

Release connector (1) and remove.

Release screw.

Remove pulse sensor (2).

Electrical

NOTE: Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing pulse sensor on intake camshaft (N20)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD PROTECTION) .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.

Unlock connector (1) and remove.

Release screw.

Remove pulse sensor (2).

Check gasket, renew damaged gasket.

Electrical

NOTE: Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD PROTECTION) .

Necessary preliminary work:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove ACOUSTIC COVER

Release connector (1) and remove.

Release screw.

Installation note:

Replace screw.

Remove pulse sensor (2).

Installation note:

Replace sealing ring.

Electrical

NOTE: Check stored fault messages.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing pulse sensor on intake camshaft (N55)

IMPORTANT: Aluminum screws/bolts must be replaced each time they are released .

Aluminum screws/bolts are permitted with and without color coding (blue).

For reliable identification: Jointing torque and angle of rotation must be observed without fail (risk of damage) .

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DAMAGE (ESD PROTECTION) .

Necessary preliminary work:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove FAN COWL .

Release connector (1) and remove.

Release screw.

Remove pulse sensor (2).

Electrical

NOTE: Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing suction pressure sensor on intake plenum (N20, N26)

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Partially undo the acoustic cover.

Unlock connector (1) and remove.

Unfasten screws (2).

Pull out the vacuum pressure sensor (3) from the intake plenum.

Electrical

Installation note:

Check sealing ring for damage. Replace damaged sealing ring.

When installing, coat sealing ring with suitable lubricant.

Electrical

NOTE: Reassemble the vehicle.

Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing suction pressure sensor on intake plenum (N55)

Necessary preliminary work:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.
  • Remove INTAKE FILTER HOUSING .

Release connector (1) and remove.

Release screws and pull suction pressure sensor (2) out of intake plenum.

Electrical

Installation note:

Check sealing ring for damage. Replace damaged sealing ring.

When installing, coat sealing ring with suitable lubricant.

Electrical

NOTE: Reassemble the vehicle.

Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

Replacing suction pressure sensor on pressure pipe (N20, N26)

Necessary preliminary tasks:

  • Read out the fault memory of the DME control unit.
  • Switch off ignition.

Unlock connector (1) and remove.

Unfasten screws (2).

Pull suction pressure sensor (3) out of pressure pipe.

Electrical

Installation note:

Check sealing ring for damage. Replace damaged sealing ring.

When installing, coat sealing ring with suitable lubricant.

Electrical

NOTE: Reassemble the vehicle.

Check stored fault message.

Delete fault memory.

Test yourself

A quick BMW X3 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.