FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/5 Series/F10/F11 (2010-2017)/why does my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) engine light flash when accelerating?

why does my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) engine light flash when accelerating?

BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
587 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The engine light on your BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) is flashing during acceleration, indicating a potential misfire or other serious engine issue.

Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before inspecting or working on components to prevent burns.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light flashing
  • •Rough engine idle
  • •Decreased acceleration performance
  • •Unusual engine noises (e.g., sputtering)
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Possible loss of power during acceleration

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify specific fault codes.
  2. 2Inspect ignition components including spark plugs, ignition coils, and wiring for signs of wear or damage.
  3. 3Check fuel delivery system for issues such as fuel pump failure or clogged fuel filter.
  4. 4Examine the air intake system for blockages or leaks that could affect air-fuel mixture.
  5. 5Perform a compression test on engine cylinders to check for internal mechanical issues.
  6. 6Inspect exhaust system for back pressure issues or leaks that could indicate a malfunctioning catalytic converter.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts.

2. Inspect and Replace Ignition Components

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, pliers
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the engine cover (if applicable) by unscrewing bolts or lifting off.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the ignition coils.
    3. Remove the ignition coils using a socket wrench.
    4. Inspect and replace spark plugs if worn or fouled (set gap to manufacturer specifications).
    5. Reinstall new ignition coils, ensuring they are seated properly and reconnect electrical connectors.
    6. Reinstall the engine cover.

3. Check and Clean Fuel Delivery System

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge, fuel line disconnect tool
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Connect a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail.
    2. Turn the ignition to the "On" position (without starting) and check fuel pressure against specifications.
    3. If pressure is low, inspect and replace the fuel filter and check the fuel pump operation.
    4. If necessary, clean the fuel injectors using a recommended cleaning kit or replace them if defective.

4. Inspect Air Intake and Exhaust Systems

  • Tools Required: Screwdrivers, flashlight
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Inspect the air filter and replace it if dirty or clogged.
    2. Check the intake ducting for cracks or loose connections that could cause a vacuum leak.
    3. Examine the exhaust for any signs of blockage or leaks, especially at the catalytic converter.
    4. Replace components as necessary.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Sub-steps:**
  • Remove the engine cover (if applicable) by unscrewing bolts or lifting off.
  • Disconnect the electrical connectors from the ignition coils.
  • Remove the ignition coils using a socket wrench.
  • Inspect and replace spark plugs if worn or fouled (set gap to manufacturer specifications).
  • Reinstall the engine cover.

Parts Required

  • Spark plugs
  • Ignition coils (if faulty)
  • Fuel filter
  • Fuel injectors (if needed)
  • Air filter

Additional Information

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

5 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) have smoke coming from the exhaust

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) is experiencing smoke coming from the exhaust, indicating a potential internal engine issue ...

    Symptoms
    • •Blue smoke indicating oil burning
    • •White smoke suggesting coolant leakage
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix timing chain noise in my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017)?

    ## Problem Statement The vehicle is experiencing timing chain noise, which may indicate issues with the timing chain tensioner or the timing chain its...

    Symptoms
    • •Loud rattling or knocking noise from the engine, especially at startup
    • •Engine misfires or rough idling
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix the P0011 code on my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017)

    P0011

    ## Problem Statement The P0011 code indicates an issue with the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system on your BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017), specifica...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine may experience poor acceleration
    • +{count} more
  4. how to fix the P0171 lean code in my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017)

    P0171

    ## Problem Statement The P0171 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a lean air-fuel mixture in the engine of a BMW 5 Serie...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or unstable idle
    • +{count} more
  5. my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) has excessive smoke from the exhaust

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) is producing excessive smoke from the exhaust, indicating a potential issue related to engin...

    Symptoms
    • •Blue smoke during acceleration or idle
    • •Strong odor of burning oil
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix P0303 code in my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017)

    P0303

    ## Problem Statement The P0303 code indicates a misfire detected in cylinder 3 of a BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017). This can lead to performance iss...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or shaking during engine operation
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation