TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): 61 03 97, Date of Issue: May, 1997

BMW:	All Models
GROUP:	61 - General Electrical System

SUBJECT

Inability To Diagnose With DIS Tester Or MoDiC

GENERAL INFORMATION

Certain cases may be encountered in which diagnosis of one or more control modules is not possible with either the DIS Tester or MoDiC (Tester displays message: "Selected Control Unit Not Found"). If battery voltage is below 12.4 volts, charge the battery. If the voltage is 12.4 volts or higher, before extensive troubleshooting is performed, proceed as follows:

Disconnect positive and negative battery cables from the battery (from both batteries in the case of 8 Series vehicles).
Using a fused jumper (such as BMW Special Tools, Part Numbers 88 88 6 611 458 or 88 88 6 611 476), briefly connect the ends of the positive and negative battery cables. This will dissipate any residual charges in the control modules which could hold them in a state of malfunction.
NOTE: The cause of this problem could be a low battery or recent jump start.
Reconnect the battery cables, and resume diagnosis.

WARRANTY STATUS

Information Only.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.

• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.

• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.

• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.

• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Safety Warning

Inability To Diagnose With Dis Tester Or MODIC (61 03 97)