Quick question, does my 2005 E61 BMW 530D need to have the dignostic socket cover fitted when driven. Mine is just hanging loose and when I looked at it it seemed to have 3 pins that I presume locate onto the diagnostic socket? Will it stop my car from running ? Why is it there do I need it connected?

 

I have no idea what pins you are referring to but no the cover does not need to be on it to drive the car.

 

it has 3 pins inside the blanking cover

The pins as in the photo

 

Did you see the above photo. I have tried to start the car and all seems to work without the blanking cover fitted, so am not sure if it is required for some other service operation?

 

The cover is not required for the car to operate

 

So why is it there if it serves no purpose?

 

What year is your car? You saw those on older models for factory diagnostics. That was solely for the 20 pin connector to complete a bus circuit. It has nothing to do with the drive ability of the car.

 

Thanks yes mine is a 2005 model.

 

I never seen that on an 05 model as you shouldn't have a 20 pin connector. Apparently they were still being fitted after they got rid of it

 

They could have just had leftovers and used them up (instead of tossing them).

If those pins have no cross continuity, then they most likely serve no purpose. I wouldn't worry about it if the vehicle is running fine and not throwing codes.