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DTC codes / BMW codes / P1472

P1472 · BMWDiagnostic Module Tank Leakage DM-TL Switching Solenoid Control Circuit Electrical

P1472 on BMW vehicles indicates that the engine control module (DME) has detected an electrical fault in the control circuit for the tank leakage diagnostic module's switching solenoid (DM-TL). This solenoid is part of the evaporative emission (EVAP) system and is used during the tank leak test to seal or vent the system; the code sets when the DME sees an unexpected voltage or current on the solenoid control wire, such as an open circuit, short to ground, or short to power.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeBMW specific
SeverityLow
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaAuxiliary emission controls

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light (malfunction indicator lamp) on the dashboard.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, as the vehicle may drive normally.
  • A faint fuel odor may be present if the solenoid fails to seal the EVAP system properly.
  • Rough idle or slight hesitation in rare cases if the fault affects purge flow, though this is uncommon.
  • Failed emissions inspection due to the stored trouble code.
  • In some instances, a slight decrease in fuel economy if the EVAP system cannot perform its diagnostic routines.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Damaged or disconnected wiring harness at the DM-TL switching solenoid connector.
  2. Corroded or loose electrical connector pins at the solenoid or DME.
  3. Failed DM-TL switching solenoid (open or shorted coil).
  4. Faulty DME internal driver circuit for the solenoid control.
  5. Pinched or chafed wire between the DME and the solenoid, often near the fuel tank or under the rear seat.
  6. Water intrusion into the connector or solenoid causing corrosion and electrical faults.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Perform a visual inspection of the DM-TL solenoid, its connector, and the wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or loose pins.
  2. Use a scan tool to command the solenoid on and off and listen for an audible click; no click suggests a faulty solenoid or circuit.
  3. Measure resistance across the solenoid terminals and compare to BMW specifications; an open or shorted coil requires replacement.
  4. Check for battery voltage at the solenoid connector with the key on and engine off; absence indicates a wiring or fuse issue.
  5. Inspect the control wire from the DME to the solenoid for continuity and shorts to ground or power; repair as needed.
  6. If the wiring and solenoid test good, suspect the DME; perform a thorough circuit test before replacing the DME.
  7. Clear the fault memory and perform a drive cycle to verify the repair and ensure the code does not return.

Don't overlook the tank leakage module wiring

  • A common oversight is replacing the DM-TL solenoid without checking the wiring harness that runs under the rear seat and near the fuel tank, where chafing and corrosion frequently occur.
  • The code can be set by a poor ground connection at the solenoid mounting point, which is often missed during diagnosis.
  • Some technicians misdiagnose P1472 as a fuel cap issue, but the DM-TL switching solenoid is a separate component that controls the leak test, not the cap seal.
  • A faulty DME is rare, but water intrusion into the DME connector can cause this code along with other unrelated faults; always check for moisture in the DME compartment.
  • After repairs, the EVAP system may require several drive cycles to complete its self-test, so the code may not clear immediately even if the fault is fixed.

Can I keep driving with P1472?

The vehicle is generally safe to drive with P1472 because it does not affect engine performance or safety, but the check engine light will remain on and the vehicle may fail an emissions test. Avoid ignoring the code for extended periods, as a persistent EVAP leak could lead to fuel vapor release and reduced fuel efficiency.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for BMW vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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