When that small light on a BMW dashboard with an inscription ‘Service Engine Soon’ comes on, it is enough to cause anxiety to any driver. While it is not as severe as the check engine light, it is still an indication that your BMW is trying to communicate with you. So, what does it mean, and how severe is it? Let’s go in-depth!
What Does the “Service Engine Soon” Light Mean on a BMW?
The “Service Engine Soon” or SES message on BMW is simply a general warning that your vehicle is due for servicing or a fault has been registered by the vehicle’s diagnostic system. This light is not always a sign of an emergency, but it is your BMW’s way of informing you that a certain part of the car requires service. It may be caused by anything ranging from a loose gas cap to engine misfires or emissions problems. If this light appears on your dashboard, it’s best to consider it as your car telling you that it needs a checkup soon.
How Serious Is SES Light And Can I Still Drive With It?
If it is the service engine soon light (not the check engine light), then your BMW is probably still safe to drive for the short term. However, that does not mean that you should not pay attention to the warning. If your BMW is running smoothly, then it is a notification for maintenance. But if you experience any abnormal sounds, the presence of smoke, or any unusual smell, then it is advisable to seek professional help immediately.
What You Should Do When the Light Comes On
- Check the Gas Cap First: If the light has just flickered and the vehicle seems to be in good condition, then the best thing to do is to check the gas cap. Ensure that the cap is well tightened and that the seal is not broken or damaged in any way. If the cap is loose, the light may turn off on its own after driving a few miles. This quick step can sometimes fix the problem without having to go to the shop.
- Check the Car’s Performance: Look out for any symptoms like rough idle, weak acceleration, or any unusual noises. If your vehicle is shaking, stalling, or the light begins blinking, this is more severe. A blinking light usually indicates that the engine is misfiring, and this is dangerous because it could damage the catalytic converter, so it should be checked as soon as possible.
- Schedule a Visit to a Trusted BMW Specialist: If you have identified the symptoms mentioned above or any other out-of-the-ordinary performance of your vehicle, the next best thing to do is to have your car checked by a professional BMW specialist. A BMW technician will then use tools that are specific to BMW to determine the problem and advise on the right repair. Once the fix is complete, the technician can then clear the warning light and run some tests to confirm the proper functioning of the vehicle.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore The SES Light
It’s important not to just dismiss the SES light as a minor issue that can easily be fixed because it may lead to a major issue that will cost a lot of money. What may be fixed for just $100 today may turn into a very costly problem, like a damaged catalytic converter or engine breakdown, tomorrow. Also, if you are residing in an area with high emission standards, an emissions-related problem would render your BMW unfit for road use. Dealing with the issue in advance prevents you from paying fines or experiencing delays.
Let Fifth Gear Automotive Help With Your BMW Warning Lights
Here at Fifth Gear Automotive, 
we offer our valued customers in Lewisville, Argyle, and McKinney, TX affordable professional services as compared to the dealerships. Our shop has been in business for more than 20 years, and we pride ourselves on the quality of our work and our customer relations. Whether it is a newly purchased BMW or an old car that you have been using for quite some time, we are here to ensure that your vehicle is running as it should. You can call us now to schedule an inspection for your BMW.
