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Secondary Air Pump Check

Model: BMW Serie 3 E46 - Years: 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
Part: Pump

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Video tutorial

The air pump is located near the windshield washer fluid reservoir. To check the operation of the secondary air pump, disconnect the supply hose and power it directly for a short period.

If the pump does not operate correctly, there will be no air emission, which can be verified by checking the output flow, or it may operate while producing unusual noises such as rattling or hissing; in these cases, it must be replaced. These operational anomalies of the secondary air pump indicate that exhaust gas condensation has entered the pump due to a failure of the check valve.


Updated on 5 February 2026 by ScegliAuto


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