Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSBMW1993750IL (E32/2) V12-4988CC 5.0L SOHC (M70)REPAIR AND DIAGNOSISA L L DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES ( DTC )TESTING AND INSPECTIONDIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DESCRIPTIONSENGINE CONTROL SYSTEMWITH - BMW DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEMCODE 16 (CYLINDER REFERENCE)
1993 BMW 750iL (E32/2) V12-4988cc 5.0L SOHC (M70)
Code 16 (Cylinder Reference)
1993 BMW 750iL (E32/2) V12-4988cc 5.0L SOHC (M70)SECTION Code 16 (Cylinder Reference)
CYLINDER REFERENCE
Explanation
This trouble code is stored when the cylinder reference sensor on cylinder 6 or 12 no longer detects an ignition signal for a certain period of time.
NOTE: The injection signal is reduced to a minimum. Fuel is no longer injected (catalytic converter protection), however, the Electronic Throttle Control (EML) does not take up the emergency program since an injection signal is still applied.
Possible Causes
- Cylinder reference sensor or supply wires defective
- Cylinder 6 or 12 receives no ignition voltage signal
- No spark at the spark plug of cylinder 6 or 12
- Ignition coil defective
- Ignition output stage of Digital Motor Electronic (DME) control unit defective
Troubleshooting
- Proceed with displayed scan tool diagnostic instructions where applicable.
Explanation
This trouble code is stored when the cylinder reference sensor on cylinder 6 or 12 no longer detects an ignition signal for a certain period of time.
NOTE: The injection signal is reduced to a minimum. Fuel is no longer injected (catalytic converter protection), however, the Electronic Throttle Control (EML) does not take up the emergency program since an injection signal is still applied.
Possible Causes
- Cylinder reference sensor or supply wires defective
- Cylinder 6 or 12 receives no ignition voltage signal
- No spark at the spark plug of cylinder 6 or 12
- Ignition coil defective
- Ignition output stage of Digital Motor Electronic (DME) control unit defective
Troubleshooting
- Proceed with displayed scan tool diagnostic instructions where applicable.
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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.