The engine light sometimes illuminates and then turns off, but no diagnostic trouble codes are detected.

[Uneripty]

Greetings, everyone. The engine light on my 2012 Cooper S consistently illuminates after about one hour of driving. After stopping the automobile for a duration of 5 minutes or more, when I return and start the engine, the engine light automatically goes off. I own an OBD meter and I inspect it when it is operational, but, no diagnostic code is being displayed. I presume that it is related to the issue of excessive heat, but I am not quite certain. (I reside in Texas) I just replaced the thermostat and coolant, but, the issue persists. I have not experience any power loss or disruptions when the lights are turned on, but it is causing me annoyance. I have not been able to locate any other individuals experiencing the same problem on the forum. We would appreciate any suggestions or insights. Thank you.

[FreexPatty]

Based on my inference, it seems that your OBD reader belongs to the bottom tier category.

It is possible that there are some BMW/Mini codes that are currently pending and have not been detected by your scanner.

In my opinion, I believe this to be of little value.

[Boxck]

The CEL may have a dual function. If there is an emissions issue, there will be at least one error code to notify you. Alternatively, it might be used to notify you of an issue that is not linked to emissions. Are you indicating that the engine is experiencing excessive heat? It is reasonable to anticipate the presence of a visual indicator that signals an engine overheating situation, however this may not always be the case.

Undoubtedly, Bigphil555's argument deserves meticulous study. The code reader you possess lacks comprehensive functionality and is incapable of reading the codes. In my honest opinion, I believe that this theory is more like to be correct.

[Uneripty]

Thank you, the vehicle does not seem to be experiencing overheating. The problem is being caused only by the duration of the drive. When the temperature decreases, the illumination ceases once again.

[Wordcar]

What is the purpose of an OBD reader? For example, the topics include brand, capabilities, bidirectional, and definition files.

Any generic parts or components are practically ineffective on these vehicles. In order to get all the codes, it is necessary to have BMW-specific definition files.

[Angurita]

It seems that the engine light is doing two functions simultaneously. If such is the case, one need a MINI scan tool capable of accessing a gateway and delving further into the vehicle's electrical system to identify the source of the illuminated warning light.

Do you believe that the engine is experiencing excessive heat? Is there not a gauge for measuring the temperature of the engine coolant? There is likely a warning light or symbol that indicates when the coolant temperature is too high or when the coolant level is low.

[Uneripty]

These automobiles lack a temperature gauge, but the coolant is fresh and at the proper level.

[Angurita]

There is no temperature gauge, but I suspect there is a warning indicator for coolant over temperature, and maybe for low coolant level. Resembles a thermometer immersed in water.

When you turn on the ignition, the sign should illuminate and then turn off when you start the engine. If this indicator stays unilluminated and there are no other indications of an engine that has become too hot, it is likely that there is no over temperature situation.

Bigphil555 was quicker than me. It is highly recommended that you use the scan tool to monitor the engine coolant temperature. Despite the presence of temperature gauges in automobiles, it is difficult to accurately determine the exact temperature. The gauge only provides a general indication of whether the coolant is cold, warm, or hot. An very high temperature will likely be indicated by a warning icon. A thermometer immersed in water.

[Uneripty]

I would want to express my gratitude to all those who have responded. It is highly valued. As you probably surmised, my scan tool is an inexpensive one. However, Austozone offers affordable scan tools, but they also have access to more advanced ones upon request. Despite specifically asking for these, I still did not get any error codes. If anybody has any recommendations, I am considering investing in a compact, specialised version. Regarding the vehicle's temperature, it is not experiencing overheating. I just assume that driving for an hour may be causing the car to heat up and perhaps cause the problem. I just acquired a new thermostat and coolant for my vehicle. However, as many of you are aware, these Mini Coopers seem to have a tendency to overheat even under normal conditions. Is it possible that the issue is caused by a faulty temperature sensor or another sensor related to the valve being stuck?

[FreexPatty]

It is possible that the new thermostat is defective. Is it an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) thermostat, since aftermarket ones may not necessarily meet the same quality standards. While I'm not asserting that anything is incorrect, I am attempting to eliminate potential problems.

Even with the use of your scanner, you should have the capability to observe and analyse engine data. What is the current temperature of the engine? 112C is a somewhat regular occurrence.

[Wordcar]

I use a Foxwell NT520 diagnostic tool equipped with the BMW package. Appears to have access to the majority (if not all) modules...