ECM - Codes and Hardware Numbers
GROUP 13Fuel System
Bulletin Number
13 02 90 (3009)
Woodcliff Lake, NJ
Aug. 1993
Product Engineering
This Service Information bulletin supersedes S.I. 13 02 90 (3009) dated March 1991, which should be removed from your S.I. binder and discarded.
SUBJECT:
Engine Control Module Codes
Versions:
M1.1, M1.2, M1.3, M1.7, M3.1, M3.3, M3.3.1
Situation:
Successful diagnosis requires that BMW technicians be able to recognize and verify all engine control module codes.
Solution:
The Illustrations shown provide a quick cross-reference of all known compatible U.S. engine control module codes and hardware numbers. The information provided is also available in a separate reference booklet format.
Note:
Additional engine control module reference booklets are available.
With the introduction of this new format, the previous slide chart insert (SD 90-012) and sleeve (SD 90-010) are invalid and no longer available.
Action:
The engine control module codes should be checked whenever any troubleshooting (drivetrain related) is conducted or when using the BMW MoDiC to enter an engine control module variant code.
A mismatch of engine control module codes can produce driveability complaints. Such complaints will generally elude regular troubleshooting techniques. Therefore, when troubleshooting the first step is to verify all engine control module codes using the latest information available.
Identification Information:
Illustration "A" shows the locations of the codes on the engine control module as well as how the codes appear on the engine control module identification page when using the BMW Service Tester.
As shown, the engine control module codes are printed at various places on the outside of each control module. This information is helpful when handling the actual control module, but final verification must always be made electronically using the BMW MoDiC or Service Tester.
Code Explanation:
Bosch Hardware Number (10 digits)
Assigned by the vendor, this code is related to the engine control module series and engine size. Typically, only the last three digits indicate changes.
BMW Hardware Number (7 digits)
The application or use of the control unit is specified by the BMW Hardware Number. Application can include self-diagnosis, maximum RPM limit, and related system compatibility (ABS, EML, etc.).
Engine Control Module Variant Code (4 digits)
The variant code "personalizes" the Bosch and BMW Hardware characteristics by signaling anticipated fuel grade, on-board emissions equipment, and transmission control type.
Only the engine control module variant code can be changed using the BMW MoDiC (except on M3.1, M3.3, M3.3.1). Control modules having hardware numbers which are incorrect for the subject vehicle must be replaced. In such instances, the vehicle repair history should be reviewed for previous repairs involving engine control module replacement.
A control module which has been installed in the wrong vehicle and is not defective is not a warranty matter. Any claim of this type will be declined.
All available resources should be consulted when an incorrect control module application is suspected. In addition to the information contained in this bulletin, an international listing of control module hardware numbers and variant codes can be found in Group 13 of the Technical Data microfiche. If these resources lead you to believe that the control module is Incorrect for the application, it Is recommended that this be confirmed with the BMW Technical Hotline.
Variant Code:
The variant code can be entered or changed up to seven times using the BMW MoDiC. See ID 03/92-14 for complete MoDiC operating information.
NOTE:
ENGINE CONTROL MODULE VERSIONS M3.1, M3.3, AND M3.3.1 CANNOT BE CODED USING A VARIANT CODE.
Variant code entry or changes are only approved for the following situations:
A) Replacement engine control modules supplied in a "basic state" bearing the variant code FF01 After installation, the correct variant code should be entered using the BMW MoDiC.
B) Variant code changing provides greater utilization of existing parts stock. Engine control modules having compatible BMW and Bosch Hardware Numbers can undergo a variant code change using the BMW MoDiC.
Example:
One engine control module bearing the following hardware numbers can be used in six different U.S. models.
BMW Hardware Number: 1 722 611
Bosch Hardware Number: 0 261 200 179
Entering or changing of variant codes is only approved with strict adherence to the following designation limitations:
- engine family
- BMW Hardware Number
- engine size
- Bosch Hardware Number
These classifications are fixed and limited to each specific engine size. Illustration "B" shows all known approved U.S. variant code/hardware number combinations. An international listing of control module hardware numbers and variant codes can be found in Group 13 of the Technical Data microfiche.
WARNING:
BMW personnel are reminded that it impossible to change the engine family of size through variant code changing. The variant code is only used to precisely match the control module hardware with other variables such as vehicle type, market, equipment, and so forth. Intentional miscoding will not serve any useful purpose and may result in poor engine performance or engine damage. Repairs for poor engine performance or engine damage as a result of miscoding are not covered under warranty.
Parts Information:
Refer to the appropriate film area to find the engine control module that fits your vehicle. Precoded engine control modules can be identified on the microfilm by the description field, which contains the variant code for the vehicle for which you are replacing the control module.
Non-coded engine control modules contain the description, "Basic Control Unit" or "Control Unit DME Without Code" and must have the variant code entered using the BMW MoDiC after installation.
NOTES
1) 3 Series M1.3 Model Year 87 may use replacement control modules and variant codes from 3 Series M1.3 Model Year 88 and later
2) 6 Series M1.3 may use replacement control modules and variant codes from 7 Series M1.3
3) For vehicles without oxygen sensor heater relay
4) For vehicles with oxygen sensor heater relay or pull-up resitor installed in harness
5) Control modules on each bank may have different hardware numbers