check engin light comes on

I have a 1997 BMW Z-3 with 95k miles and it runs great the only problem i have is that the check engin light comes on i had it check the said it was the Oxygen censer and then it was off they keep tellin me knothings wrong are they lynin

I'd suggest that you purchase a OBDII code reader. When the service light comes on, you can get the codes yourself and look up the service action on the internet. I purchased one and have saved over $1,000.00 by being able to do simple repairs myself. You are at the mercy of the techs if you don't have one. If you don't want to repair the unit yourself, you will be prepared with the correct information before you go to the repair shop, possibly saving you big bucks.
I replaced 2 oxygen sensors on my 2001 z3 3.0, cam sensor and an air flow sensor when I found out the codes turned on the "service engine soon" light appeared. Most of these repairs are simple bolt on items. Good Luck..

I'd suggest that you purchase a OBDII code reader. When the service light comes on, you can get the codes yourself and look up the service action on the internet. I purchased one and have saved over $1,000.00 by being able to do simple repairs myself. You are at the mercy of the techs if you don't have one. If you don't want to repair the unit yourself, you will be prepared with the correct information before you go to the repair shop, possibly saving you big bucks.
I replaced 2 oxygen sensors on my 2001 z3 3.0, cam sensor and an air flow sensor when I found out the codes turned on the "service engine soon" light appeared. Most of these repairs are simple bolt on items. Good Luck..

I'm a newbie to BMW (2000/Z3/2.3). The OBDII readers you refer to abnove - are athey all the same - or conversely - is the BMW compatible with them all?

Or is there a specific protocol I should be looking for?

I purchased the Autotap reader. The codes that it generates can be looked up online easily. Many of the codes are universal, and some are not! However, most of the repairs I've done have been easily repaired because the reader works with just about any vehicle made or sold in the USA since 1996. I'm sold on it, it has paid for itself many times over.... 2001 Z3 3.0 roadster, 91000+ miles and still running.

I have a 96 Z3, My car was acting like it was out of gas. However you could smell raw gasoline. I replaced the MAF sensor for way too much money. now if I let it idle for 10 minutes it will shut off. Any Ideas ??

You should consider checking your gas cap. A worn or not properly fitting gas cap will cause the check engine light to come on. You can replace the cap at a BMW dealer with a non locking one for under $10.00. The OEM locking cap runs around $80.00. You must have your VIN# to order the locking cap. Good Luck