Try this for a laugh. Turn off the ignition. Push and hold down the trip odometer reset button on the speedometer. Turn the ignition key to position one (first click) whilst still holding the reset button, may take a few attempts but as far I know it works on all E36s and some other BMWs.

You will now be treated to a very jolly show indeed. First the DME will display a few of it's internal registers in the mileometer LED space. Next all the gauges on the dash will cycle from zero to full scale deflection and back again whilst all the warning lights illuminate. Not only is this pretty but it's the only time you'll see the speedo on my 318iS indicate 160mph!

The registers displayed are

• Vehicle identification number
• Number for BMW internal use
• Number of wheel rotations needed to make up one kilometer
• Software version
• Hardware version
• Index of changes

My thanks to Alberto Schileo for the details above.

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