1999 323i BMW

check throttle body

possible causes are
crankshaft position sensor
cam shaft position sensor/s
ignition control module
broken timing belt/chain

The fault reason appears in the instrument panel or internal damage EML control module. EML system has self diagnosis function, also has the failure protection function, when the EML system failure, it can transmit the signal to the engine control module, common control solar term door position motor, maintain solar term door opening to suppress the rotation speed of the engine, so the fault that caused the engine speed can't go up. Use obd2 for automotive diagnostics , you can improve vehicle safety performance and driving more safer.

"EML" is BMW's system name for electronic throttle management. The "EML" system, in it's most basic sense consists of an accelerator pedal (with an electronic position sensor), a computer module (usu. integrated with the main engine computer), and an EDK (Elektronische Drosselklappe or Electronic throttle valve). The EDK is also known as a "drive by wire" throttle. "EDK" throttles use a computer controlled stepper motor rather than a purely mechanical linkage (usu. metal cable attached directly to the accelerator pedal) to control the opening and closing of the throttle plate.

EML means drive by wire throttle control system.Its a drive by wire not a mechanical linkage, A fault has been detected,in the throttle accelerator pedal position ot the TAC valve assemble.

The "EML" warning light in a BMW indicates a problem with the "drive by wire" throttle control system."

"EML" is an acronym for "Elektronische Motorleistungsregelung". Loosely translated from the original German for the BMW owner means Electrionic Engine Power Control.

"EML" is BMW's system name for electronic throttle management. The "EML" system, in it's most basic sense consists of an accelerator pedal (with an electronic position sensor), a computer module (usu. integrated with the main engine computer), and an EDK (Elektronische Drosselklappe or Electronic throttle valve). The EDK is also known as a "drive by wire" throttle. "EDK" throttles use a computer controlled stepper motor rather than a purely mechanical linkage (usu. metal cable attached directly to the accelerator pedal) to control the opening and closing of the throttle plate.

"Drive by wire" throttles are very common on modern vehicles starting in the late nineties up through the present day. "Drive by wire" technology enables very precise throttle control to improve drivability and vehicle emissions, as well as many convenience features like electronic cruise control, traction control & stability control.

BMW first implemented "drive by wire" in very limited quantities on the most expensive & sophistocated BMW models starting in 1988.

The latest generation of advanced vehicle features to take advandage of "drive by wire" technology are radar guided cruise control, accident avoidance control, autonomous-driving, and autonomous-parking systems.


Read more: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_does_eml_warning_light_on_a_bmw_mean#ixzz1OnBNssKH

Eitther the trottle valve or the wiring loom ( the plug that plugs into the trolttle valve, the crimping gets corroded.

Check the ABS brake sensors in your wheels, if they are not functioning properly. It will trigger the computer to engage the ASC auto stability control light as the asc uses the brakes to assist in control. I will also engage the EML engine management light to slow the rev point to limp mode

The EML light will come on if you have an emissions fault , the car may drive ok but you may find you are using more fuel , it would be better to get the problem checked just to be on the safe side , regards mark.

I finally fixed this problem!  Not sure if it will work for everyone but it did for me.  My new mechanic said there is an electronic 10 pin connector hooked up to the throttle body and mine had 2-3 pins that weren't making a good connection....THAT'S IT!