How to Manually Reset the Service Engine Light in a BMW 3 Series


1. Put the key into the ignition and turn the vehicle to the 'on' position but don't start the engine.
2. Find the diagnostic port under the driver's side dashboard near the pedals. Plug the computerized scan tool into this port. The battery from the vehicle will automatically power on the tool.
3. Find arrows on the faceplate of the scan tool and use them to scroll through the menu until you find the 'Read All Codes' command. Select this command.
4. Scroll through the menu again and find 'Clear All Codes.' Select this option then wait for the service engine light to shut off.
5. Turn off the vehicle and wait five minutes. Start the engine and verify that the check engine light is still off.