BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

shipo

Yeah, I forgot to mention that. Most (if not all) vehicle manufacturers activate the A/C compressor (at least at warmer OATs) when the defroster is selected. What I like about the BMW HVAC controls is that you can select the "Defrost" program (top right button) which uses the compressor in combination with "gonzo max tornado" fan speed, or simply direct air to the windscreen (compressor optional depending on the Snowflake button) by using the top left Airflow button. I cannot think of any other manufacturer that offers that flexibility. Yeah, yeah, yeah, I hear you saying, "Who cares?" Well, I do. There are plenty of times when the windscreen needs to be demisted just a little and the need for the extra dry air from the compressor is unnecessary, and the last thing I need is more dry air being directed at my eyes (thus demisting my them too). ;-)

Best Regards,
Shipo

jasond

For routine tire rotation and balancing is it adequate to take the car to Discount Tire or would it be preferable to take it to the BMW dealership?

shipo

Call me a cynic but I don’t think either are very good places to perform your tire rotations. Why? I have yet to see one remove and replace a wheel without using a pneumatic impact wrench, which can WAY over torque your lug bolts. Two very nasty things can happen when impact wrenches are used, 1) damage to your expensive alloy wheels, and 2) warping of your brake rotors.

IMHO, the best choice is to do in yourself, using a torque wrench to properly tighten the lug bolts to 88.5 lb-ft of torque (using the "STAR" pattern to tighten them of course).

Best Regards,
Shipo

grantchstr

Question -
Are you sure that on new cars that a torque wrench was used in the first place?

And second, I just had a tire fixed on a almost brand new car, will BMW roadside assistance properly retorque the wheel - I called them initially but they wouldt put a plug in the tire (which had a nasty nail in it) - they would ONLY put on the spare and that would have been more of a hassle than just driving slowly to the nearest tire shop where they definitely used a pneumatic wrench. Does the BMW tool kit have a torque wrench? I think I know the answer, but it should anyway.

shipo

No, I'm not sure that they use a torque wrench at the factory. That said, I've never had a problem breaking loose a lug bolt on a new car. The same cannot be said after the first trip to the dealership, where they took the wheels for some reason or another. :-/

I have no experience with BMW Roadside Assistance, however, I wrote the MB-USA Roadside Assistance Program (RAP) dispatch system (among others), and know that their "RAP Wagons" carry a torque wrench (or at least did). Do/did the RAP folks use it to change a tire? Don't know.

The BMW tool kit does not include a torque wrench, however, the lug wrench included with the car is quite sufficient for tightning the lug bolts until you get to somewhere where you can have them re-torqued. I say this because it is highly unlikely (if not impossible) to over-torque a lug bolt with said lug wrench (just not enough arm).

Best Regards,
Shipo

vcheng

They use a special tool with five (or whatever the number of lug nuts being used on the production live) to put on all the nuts at the same time, with precise monitoring of the torque applied. This tool also has a guide to center the wheel on the hub perfectly.

ericec

kyfdx

My BMW service department uses torque wrenches... I can't imagine any BMW dealer not using one.. And, I'm sure the factory does, as well.. Even my Honda dealer uses them..

Also, my little independent tire dealer (2 employees) uses a torque wrench.. I wouldn't be going there if they didn't.

I think things have changed a lot over the last 5-6 years...

Everyone still uses impact wrenches to loosen the bolts, I'm assuming...

regards,
kyfdx

jamesspot

I have a manual '04 330i with 9k miles. When I run up the rpms in 2nd gear it feels like staging afterburner in a fighter as I go through 4100 rpm. It's a momentary lull and then an acceleration rush as the rpms climb. I've read on other boards about defective DISA valve going through knock retardation. My question is: has anyone had their DISA valve changed under warranty and updated software loaded?
I'm about to take my car for its' first oil change, get new wipers, and I think I want this done if it improves the smoothness of the acceleration.

erickpl

Shipo, is that a technical term somewhere in the manual?

I love how well the defrost works, but hate the fact that I about get blown away when it is activiated!

-Paul

blueguydotcom

I haven't had that done to my 330i yet but I've heard it helps.

On my side, not one dealer has responded regarding my shock question. Weird.

kyfdx

While you are at it... ask about suspension bushings, control arms, etc..

I've heard that it is much more likely to be a problem with those, than with the actual shock or strut..

I only know what I've heard.. I'm not really mechanically or technically proficient.. I just drive them..

regards,
kyfdx

shipo

"I love how well the defrost works, but hate the fact that I about get blown away when it is activiated!"

That's why you can "Defrost" two ways:

Per the "Shipo" manual:

Rapid Defrost --Gonzo Max Tornado Mode--
Press the upper right button on the HVAC control panel, and DUCK!

Standard Defrost --Civilized/Can Still Hear the Symphony of the Engine Mode--
Press the upper left button on the HVAC control panel, and if necessary, press/enable the "Snowflake" button as well.

Best Regards,
Shipo

grantchstr

Having had a nail repair job for FREE including plug and patch and rebalancing at my local tire shop I called up my local BMW dealer (Greenwich CT) to ask to have the wheel retorqued correctly (even though the tire shop SAID they used a torque wrench I only saw a pneumatic wrench actually used).
BMW wanted $20 ! For one wheel. Thats maybe a five minute job? There is NFW I will ever take my car to that dealer for any servicing. You would have thought that something like that would be a no-brainer freebie for a new customer.

seivwrig

Well, I have the jet black with black leather and wood. It is ok but I will probably get the black trim that was available on the 2001 325i. Order what you want, if you know anyone going to Europe, you can get trim colors that are not available in the US. Eurobuyer also offer some stuff. BMW NA ticks me off when they determine what we want.

shner

I have found a dealer that on a invoice price of $34,690 has agreed to Invoice + $1500, Total = $36,200 (MSRP is $37,795)

How much should the lease cost me per month on a 24 month lease with either 12k or 15k miles per year based on the above agreed price,

Any help much appriciated.

tootsie1

I have a 2005 325i steptronic with less than 300 miles. ( I don't know which is the second car, my bmw or the my mustang convertible, that is why such low mileage after a month. I do know the BMW is pampered morel lol) Anyway, it has a trip computer and navigation. here is the question while the trip computer is on (sometimes I keep it on outside temp, mpg or range) I will look down while I am driving and it seems to do a countdown effect of 200, 100, 50 and then it returns to the normal display. What's up with that? Any insight would be appreciated.

TIA.

venture

I'm going to replace the license plate bracket with the clean looking piece to neaten up the front end of my '05 325i.

To remove the black strip in the middle of the front bumper that holds the license plate:

It appears that you just carefully pry off the inboard part of each outside strip, then pry off the middle strip. The new middle strip then tucks under each outside strip. I see where the inside piece is keyed to fit at each end.

Am I missing anything. Any "gotchas"?

It looks too easy.

amt7565

I am not putting my front plates on. I hear Texas is passing a legislation in a few months requiring only 1 license plate. Even with the new rule not in effect as of yet, many Bimmer owners don't put font plates.
Check with your state to see if there is any laws coming into effect.
AMT-

jasond

Thanks Shipo, I'm not too good at doing this kind of thing. Any suggestions as to how I could get this done, if I can't use the dealership or Discount Tire? Would the dealership not still be safer? Thanks, Jason

venture

We don't have front plates here in Pennsylvania, but the dealer put a plate on with their name on it. The rubber molding that has the bracket integrated with the black strip can be removed and replaced with part number 51.11 7 030 611

It's just a straight piece of rubber that matches the end pieces - without the license plate bracket. Makes for a cleaner looking front end.

I was just wondering if there were any tricks to remove it or if it was as easy as it looks.

dl7265

Where did you hear this ? usually traffic laws/penal laws are changed every 2 September's. Unfortuantly the E60 unlike the E46 does not have any mounting bracket set up, So you have to drill 2 holes in the bumper cover

rworrell

Tootsie, the countdown is the number of feet until the next turn indicated by the nav system (you can switch it to yards if you want). I really liked that feature on my nav-equipped 330.

shipo

"Would the dealership not still be safer?"

I suppose that depends upon the dealership. In your shoes, I'd ask around until I found a dealership that DOES use a torque wrench. Failing that, I'd look around for a good independent garage that works on imports and request that they do the rotations "properly". Hang in there, you will find someone to do it correctly.

Best Regards,
Shipo

amt7565

I am not 100% certain it has passed. I heard that it passed the house, but it was too late getting to the senate and hence, it might be attached as an amendment. Here is the link:

Click on 'house committee report and then click under "text".
The bill is HB3540. Look for article 9 (reduction in license plates).
http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/cgi-bin/db2www/tlo/billhist/Hmatrix.d2w/report?LEG=79&SESS=- R&CHAMBER=H&BILLTYPE=B&BILLSUFFIX=03540

Let me know if you find anything else. Yesterday I installed only my rear plates.

AMT-

hgeyer

One trick that you should be aware of is that the black trim on the left and right side of the front plate mounting will slide about 1" in either direction. This is helpful in closing any space between the middle strip vis-a-vis the left/right pieces. You can grip the side pieces with pliers (use a cloth to avoid marring the finish) and pull.

dl7265

Unfortunatly if you were issued plates prior to any law change ( would be September) you are required to display said 2 plates. They try this every session,without success. There have been too many crimes IE Hit and Run, MURDER that have been solved by a witness seeing and copying a license plate number. Personally i would be surprised if its ever changed.

Did you notice your new Reg sticker includes your Vin#, LP# and county now ? efforts to combat the huge amout of fraud of these stickers.

DL

kyfdx

I'm not sure of the front of the '05 325i.. Is it exactly the same as the '03 and '04? A big flat expanse of bumper?

I have an '03 that I bought used.... I replaced the dealer ad plate with a black BMW plate that has the roundel on it..

For months, I kept looking at it.. thinking that I wanted to remove the bracket and replace it with the strip.. I was sure it would look better. But, I had never seen my model with it done.. Every car at the dealer has a front plate or bracket of some kind.

Finally, I saw one with just the strip.. No thanks.. On a coupe, or a 330i ZHP, I'm sure it looks better... But, if you have the same front end that I do on my '03 325i, I suggest a chrome or black BMW plate.. Make sure you have seen a car like yours without the bracket, before you make the change.

The instructions I've seen make me nervous... This is exactly the kind of simple job that turns into a nightmare for me... Good luck with it.

regards,
kyfdx

venture

You were right. Each side piece slid out a little. I used pliers and a towel to pull them back in where the keys lined up.

Only a screwdriver required to take off the license plate and the two screws at the bottom of the plate bracket. It looks MUCH better than that old license plate hanging on there. Much sleeker looking. Only took about five minutes.

There were two holes left in the plastic bumper at the bottom and I just put the black screws back in. You can hardly see them sitting still, and invisible at speed. If the car wasn't black I would have painted the screws to match.

Not bad for less than $20.

amt7565

Thanks! I have left out the front plates for now.
AMT-

amt7565

Yes, I noticed the new registration stickers....

Some states only require 1 license plate. So it would be nice to have the same thing here in Texas....really don't know how much a front plate will help though....most cars get away with their rear ends towards us, not the front

AMT-

fedlawman

I've read that the Yokohama ES100 is one of the best summer compound tires on the market. I decided to pick up a set - attached to this car...





She's a 1988 325is with 119,000 miles. Original paint and perfect interior (original Recaros and all). - No accidents, dings, or blemishes of any kind. M3 suspension components (steering rack, aluminum control arms, bushings, mounts, springs, etc.), Koni adjustable shocks, 16" ASA's with Yokohama ES100's. Maintenance is current (timing belt, valves, etc.). All electronics work. Powertrain is completely stock. It's been owned and maintained by a fanatical BMW enthusiast and friend of mine (he just completely restored an E30 M3 to Evo III specs). This 325is was his "baby" until the M3 came along. It's got a solid history and no hidden surprises.

I'm thrilled to have found it. I pick it up in 2 weeks!

kyfdx

Are you torturing me on purpose?

Nice car.. how much?

regards,
kyfdx

fedlawman

No, I just thought you (and a few others) would appreciate it.

I paid more than I wanted to, less than I was willing to - but a fair price.

$7,500

kyfdx

It really looks great.. I'm setting my sights a little lower.. '91 318is...

SSShhhhhhh... don't tell my wife..

fedlawman

Not lower, just different strengths.

S42...yum!

nyccarguy

That's a great looking E30 feldmanlaw. Enjoy it!

byronwalter

...very, very nice... too bad you probably can't park it in your living room.

Byron

kominsky

SWEET!!! I wonder how my wife would react if I bought a new set of tires and they had a $7300 car attached...

fedlawman

My wife was so excited that she bought some cloth mats so I can park it in the living room (great idea Byron!). Now I just need to figure out where to put the coffee table...

brave1heart

She's a beauty! Congratulations!

brave1heart

You can only be absolutely sure that the shocks are worn out if they are leaking. They may well have their effectiveness reduced somewhat by 40,000 miles or so but most will last 100,000 or more without noticeable loss in performance on the street. Mine have 82K miles on them and seem to be holding up well. For $800, you can get Bilstein shocks AND H&R springs... Or even a TC Kline suspension on sale ;o)

kyfdx

I took our '03 325i in for the 30K inspection yesterday.. WOW... I'm going to think really hard about dumping this car before it gets out of warranty and free maintenance..

I had no other complaint, other than the sunroof shade is kind of "sticky". They replaced the clips in it, once before..

On the plus side... they really inspect the car... They replaced the front brakes/rotors/sensors (no problems or complaints previously), the front passenger window regulator (said cable was loose.. no complaint from us).

In addition to the Inspection I, they flush the brake system.. Plus, gave me a loaner ('05 525i).

It is really great to go pick up your car, and walk away without pulling out your wallet.. and the invoice has no dollar amounts...

But, they do list the labor hours... The total for the inspections and repairs was 6 hours.. This dealer charges $94/hr.. Plus, there were parts for the window regulator, brake pads, rotors, brake sensors, oil, brake fluid, oil filter, microfilter, sunroof slide...

This was a regularly scheduled service, with just one small complaint about the sunroof shade..

I figure the bill would have been between $1200-$1500.

A bill like that for the 60K service will make me sick..

Or am I just rationalizing getting a new car next summer?

regards,
kyfdx

shipo

Admit it, you really want to go to Germany and pick up an ED E90. :shades:

Best Regards,
Shipo

kyfdx

Well... duh!!

We stopped by the dealer a couple of Sundays ago, when they were closed...

I almost hate to say it, but the E90 did not exactly knock my socks off.. But, fortunately, good looks is not the highest thing on my list...

Don't get me wrong.. I like it, but it didn't make me want it more than the leftover E46s sitting next to it..

One problem... almost every one they have is Jet Black or Sparkling Graphite.. Both are kind of dull.. While the Sparkling Graphite looks great on the '05 E46 coupes and convertibles, it seems drab on the E90... Maybe they will look better when they start coming out with more colors.. I haven't driven one, yet.. From everything I hear, I'm pretty sure I will like it.. :surprise:

I had an '05 525i for a loaner... While I really like the look of them, they seem huge from the driving position.. On the E39, I almost felt like I was in an E46, but not so with the E60... One thing that didn't bother me.... I didn't really miss the cockpit feel, like I thought I would.. And, the I-drive didn't seem to be a problem... The "lawyer" screen that comes up every time you start the car is kind of goofy, though....

I did like the electric steering wheel adjustments, and how it moves up and away, when you turn the car off.. It took me ten minutes to find the power lock button (up on the dash between the vents). I like the window buttons on the door, instead of the console. It seems they wanted to keep the console free of anything but the shifter and the I-drive controls.. Cupholders.. goofy, but 5-series owners are used to that..

It is just too big for my likes... If the next car is for me, I'm sure it will be an E90, or maybe a 1-series.. As much as I like our 325i, if the next car is for my wife, it will probably be a TSX. She likes the BMW, but really doesn't need or appreciate the driving capabilities... and complains about how many other ones she sees every day..

Geez... I have the day off work, can you tell?

regards,
kyfdx

webby1

I must admit my feelings are very similar to yours, I looked at the car 3 times and also took my wife once...it took her only 5 seconds to decide she did not like it. My dealer had the cars parked together ( 4 E90 ) next to E46 so it was a fair comparison.
Again, I find that the 325i with 16 inch wheels look out of proportion.

Also, I received this ( see below letter ) from my dealer, just wondering if anyone else got anything similar ?
I am scheduled to participate in this test drive so I will get a real test on the new 3 series.

Regards,
Webby



"We will be hosting a 3 Series Drive Event on Tuesday, June 7th from 12 Noon until 8 p.m. and would like to invite all interested parties to attend.
Two professional driver's will be here with a fleet of 2006 3 Series. We have arranged to go out in groups of 7 vehicles, the lead and chase vehicles being the professionals with 5 cars in between consisting of two guests per car.
The designated drive will be approximately 45 minutes in duration.
We will ask you to be here one half hour prior to your test drive to check in. Please bring your driver's licence with you. Refreshments and sandwiches will be provided.
Only 10 guests per hour can be accommodated. We have set up 6 time frames; 12p.m., 1p.m., 2p.m., 3p.m., 4p.m, and 6:30p.m.
We hope your schedule allows you to attend.
 
Thank You,"
 

fedlawman

I wanna go...

kyfdx

Sounds great..

My dealer's service department is having a "grand-opening" of their upgraded/new facility and sent an invitation.. It is for this coming Sunday (when the dealership is usually closed).

You are cordially invited to the Grand Opening of the new service facilities of The BMW Store and to the introduction of the New 2006 BMW Three Series.

If you are a driving enthusiast, you won't want to miss this special event. Be among the first to experience BMW's newest, most exciting sports sedan, the all new 3 series.

Refreshments and door prizes!

"Experience"... I wonder if that means drive?

Your event sounds better..

regards,
kyfdx

amt7565

KYFDX-
You have got the new 3 in your system now....only way to get it out is to buy one

AMT-

grantchstr

Sorry folks - the reason I just bought a 2005 325xi is that I dont like the shape and style of the E90. I consider it similar to the new 700 Series fiasco - the 700 Series shape was quickly changed by BMW. It just looks "Guido" to me rather than "Classico".