Cheap way to find out why Service Engine Soon coming on...

[vagabond]

My 2001 M3 Service Engine Soon light came on during run-of-the-mill spirited driving last week. Not the filler cap (topped off gas tank and double checked) and no strange sounds, power loss, etc. Went out of warranty in June, and a sensor was replaced under warranty during its last visit (June 8th).

Any recommendations on a good independent mechanic near Fairfax/Chantilly to take a look at it? I feel like every time I drive near the dealer I get 200 dollars sucked out of my wallet.

Thanks!

[SMOODY]

I have two suggestions. 1) Find someone who has a Peake OBD tool that will read. (I have one btw and I work in Chantilly). 2) You could try Ron Willis at Manassas Motorwerks (301-393-1500). He specializes in BMWs. I went to him to have my car inspected for the most recent DE. He is a bit of a 2002 nut, and has several 2002s including one set up for endurance races.

[jkuper]

Which sensor was replaced?

[vagabond]

Thanks for the help- The sensor they replaced on my last visit was the Pulse Generator on the exhaust cam. Is this a common failure?

Since I work in Manassas, I may just stop by Manassas Motorwerks.

[AG]

Thanks for the help- The sensor they replaced on my last visit was the Pulse Generator on the exhaust cam. Is this a common failure?

Since I work in Manassas, I may just stop by Manassas Motorwerks.

The exhaust camshaft position sensor is a pretty common failure on regular E46's. I don't see why the M3 would be any different. Does your SES light go on and off? How many miles on your car?

[vagabond]

It's been on steady now for almost a week, and the car has 18.5k miles on it.