2004 BMW X3 EML, DSC and service engine soon lights all on

RYAN1276

MEMBER
2004 BMW X3
6 CYL
AWD
AUTOMATIC
36,000 MILES

I own a 2004 bmw x3 2.5i with 36k miles. I left for a week and came back to a dead battery. I jumped it and it started immediately but the DSC light came on for the first time. I drove the car and left it on for 15 mins, no issues. Went to restart the car and had to jump it again. After starting for the second time, the EML, DSC, and "service engine soon" lights came on along with a "chugging" sound in the engine that resulted in the rpms to fluctuate from 1000 to 1500. I released the emergency brake, its' light stayed on now but in yellow(not red), and the car accelerated intermittently when I stepped on the gas. Any ideas or suggestions?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

If the battery went dead again and required you to jump it again, I have to question two things, first the battery and second the alternator. First, the battery shouldn't have gone dead on one week, so that is my first guess. And yes, a weak battery could cause the RPM to change as mentioned.

In this case, I need you to have the computer scanned for codes. Since the lights have been on, the computer should have trouble codes stored. From them, we can focus on the problem at hand. Most nationally recognized parts stores will scan it for free. Also, while you are there, have them check the alternator and load test the battery. Again, most stores will do it for free.

Let me know what you find.