Gauges

[BA3]

The gauges in my '96 328is have some strange problems. Temp and tach are dead. Gas says the car has the same amount of gas in it as it did when this problem started. The speedometer works most of the time, but occasionally it will go up to 70 or 80 when I am manuevering the car around in parking lots at low speeds. Almost like it is trying to do the tach's job. The car did this about a year and a half ago, then it fixed itself. The problem is now back, and I would rather not wait again. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Steve G]

I don't know what the problem is, but you can try the gauge test.

Hold the odometer reset button down and turn the key to ignition (don't start engine). All the gauges should move from min to max and back.

If it tests normal, try it again when the problem returns.

[BA3]

Thank you Steve. I'll give that a shot.

[BA3]

It failed the test Steve G. I forgot to mention in my first post that it also seems that the console computer display is brighter when the gauges are malfunctioning, and that the warning buzzer for the lights and the chime that plays when you have the door open and the key in the right ignition place doesn't chime.

[Brian 328is]

Instrument panel reset, faulty gas gauge or odometer

pull fuse # 31 and then try to turn on the car(it wont),then turn the car off and replace or insert the same fuse

[BA3]

That worked. Thanks!

[Brian 328is]

I got that from a previous post here in these forums.

Brian

[zub]

Hi guys. I have BMW 96 318 and having instrument panel problem. All gauges suddenly went down to zero and then start again automatically with no fix duration. Sometimes after 3-5 seconds and sometimes 5-10 minutes. But when they are up they are up to date with current condition. There is no affect on other things. It seems some wire is detaching and attaching again n again. Just like a car speaker with broken wire! Any clue! it is quite annoying while driving. Thanks.