What am I doing wrong ?

[flg8r90]

I can't get the hidden menu to come up on my cluster. This is what I've tried:

1) While holding the reset button on the dash I turn the key to the on position and hold it for at least 10 sec to one minute.....nothing.

2) with the key in the on position, I hold the reset button for least 10 up to one minute.....nothing.

These are the directions that I've been trying to follow but the OBC NEVER shows test.

Instructions to access the hidden OBC functions:
1. Hold Trip Reset while turning ignition key to on position
2. OBC should show "Test"
3. Use Trip Reset to select function 19.0 that unlocks all the features
3. Wait for display to show "Off"
4. Depress Trip Reset for 1/4 second and release it
5. With no delay press Trip Reset several times to select one of the following function s
BMW E46 On-Board Computer (OBC) Hidden Codes
nr example description

Thanks Everyone !!

[TerminatorX5]

you got an 8-cyl, so probably you have high cluster... trip reset is the left knob, right? try the right knob, see what happens

[flg8r90]

Excellent !! Thanks it worked !!

[TerminatorX5]

you are welcome... you know the rest, right? how to unlock the tests...

[flg8r90]

Yes, thanks I found it in another post, where the sum of the last 5 digits of your vin is your unlock code. Very useful.

I was trying to check the voltage on my battery 12.2v and the condition of my alternator 13.5v. I think the 13.5v for the alternator may be a little low. Shouldn't it be in the low 14v range ? Hope my alternator is not going.

Thanks again

[Qsilver7]

With engine running & TEST 9 initiated...you should see the alternator/charging system fluctuate between 12.8v-14v. If you are seeing consistent readings above 14v+ (like 14v-16v)...then you may have an overcharging issue (usually from the regulator).

To check your battery...the engine should NOT be running and the ignition should be in position 1 (or 2...but less modules are running in position 1...so less draw on battery)...and it should be done before starting the engine or approx 2-3 hours after shutting down the engine which will deplete any "surface charge" from the engine running.