2001 BMW M5FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

12 13 ... Further Fault Patterns With Evaluation

Evaluation of sparking period and ignition voltage peaks at idling speed:

  1. Normal combustion period.
  2. Normal ignition voltage peak. Ignition system is OK.
  3. Fig 1: Evaluation Of Sparking Period & Ignition Voltage Peaks At Idle Speed
    G00313225Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Long sparking period (1) with low ignition voltage peak (2). Indicates low compression.

Fluctuating sparking period: Indicates contamination on spark plug (shunt).

Fig 2: Long Sparking Period With Low Ignition Voltage Peak
G00313226Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Short sparking period (1) with high ignition voltage peak. Constant but short sparking period: Indicates defective ignition lead.

Fig 3: Short Sparking Period With High Ignition Voltage Peak
G00313227Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
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Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

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