Update Needed for Rough-Running BMW

This bulletin applies to 2018 BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series and 7 Series vehicles. The vehicle may run rough when accelerating from a standing position and DTC FC 21A02D may be stored in the DME (digital motor electronics) fault memory.

Information courtesy of Mitchell 1

Mike Mavrigian

Jan. 7, 2023

This bulletin applies to 2018 BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series and 7 Series vehicles. The vehicle may run rough when accelerating from a standing position and DTC FC 21A02D (combustion control: valve lift correction when at idle) may be stored in the DME (digital motor electronics) fault memory.

A software error in the DME is likely the cause. BMW recommends updating the software using ISTA 4.27.10 or higher. Do not replace any parts if DTC FC 21A02D is the only fault found.

About the Author

Information courtesy of Mitchell 1

Information for Technical Service Bulletins comes from ProDemand, Mitchell 1's auto repair information software for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in San Diego, Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry since 1918.

Mike Mavrigian

Motor Age Editor

Mike Mavrigian has written thousands of automotive technical magazine articles involving a variety of specialties, from engine building to wheel alignment, and has authored more than a dozen books that crisscross the automotive spectrum. Mike operates Birchwood Automotive, an Ohio shop that builds custom engines and performs vintage vehicle restorations. The shop also features a professional photo studio to document projects and to create images for articles and books.