onboard computer help...
 

Hi there,
I have a 98 328is with an onboard computer. Is there a way to make the onboard computer display turn on when you start the car? Everytime I start the car the display is off, and I have to push a button in order for it to turn on, I find that really annoying. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

I always thought that it did turn on when you turn the car on,,ummm, strange. give the dealer a call, I think it can be re-programed via the modic connection.

Mine is off when i start up the car (unless there is some problem then stupid check whatevers light comes on). I like it that way, the obc is a novelty in the beginning, then just takes up space after awhile.

If you have to press a button for it to come on, i would suspect tha something is wrong there. You should only have to turn on the car and it turns on automatically.

Exept for the clock, It will only display when a function button is pushed or if the check control senses a problem.

yeah, same here

hmmm...how come everyone is saying different things :confused: Jared is saying that I shouldn't have to push a button to turn it on, and others are saying that I/they do. I want Jared's computer then! Well maybe there's a way to program it to be on when you turn on the car. Anyone know for sure??? What's a modic connection? Thanks.

Well I do have an E30 rather than an E36, that is the first thing, sorry.

In the engine compartment ther is a large plug wher the dealer connects their sysytme to the car (modic) thats how they check codes and reprogram the computers.

The right side of the unit is the 'time' & 'date' display, which is always on. The entire left side is an informational display that comes on when either prompted, or detects a problem. The temperature is one button, which only displays when you press it. Now the 'check control' button can be pressed to read fault codes, but usually says 'check control ok' unless you've got a problem. When a problem is detected, the yellow check control dummy light on the instrument cluster comes on first, in conjunction with the error description on the OBC. I personally haven’t found the check control feature all that useful. However under a few circumstances it has come in handy. I've got a minor leak in my coolant tank, so when the level dips too low, the OBC will flash "coolant level low-see owners manual" or something to that effect. It's nice cause it prevents you from missing something that could cause bigger problems. It's not an exact science though. I was getting a "break light failure" warning for a while, but after I replaced the bulb it appeared to be, the code persisted. Finally I replaced the 'plug n play' holder that the bulb sits in, & twists into the back of the light assembly. It finally worked.

I just use the clicker on the turn signal stalk to scroll through my pre-programmed display on the OBC. I hate reaching down for the individual buttons when I'm driving!

If i am correct, i believe that the OBC for the 3 Series E36 was the same used on the 5 series. Am i incorrect?

Not sure about the OBC for the 3 and 5 series....

Steve, I use that too, but it's just annoying having to push any button to turn it on. Wish it would just come on when you start up the car! I sent an email to a BMW dealer, still waiting for their response...

called the dealer and ask them if it was possible to reprogram, and they said no. i kind of find that hard to believe, becuz electronically speaker, that should be something quite simple. I dunno...maybe i'll call a different dealer and see if they say something else...

Nothing wrong with OBC. Only comes on if you have a prob.