Hi, everybody. Please advise me how I should correctly drive my new car, a step, during this process. I guess it is not as simple as the dealer told me. Thanks in advance. Meg.
With a Step, you have an auto with some of the capabilities (gear holding, for example) of a manual. Couple of musts:
1) Keep rpm's under 4,500 for the first 1,200 miles 2) don't drive at a constant speed for more than a few minutes at a time (i.e., don;t use cruise for first 1,200 miles)
Also, with the step, I'd use the Manual mode as mush as possible. Engine braking is good during the break-in period and usually won't be accomplished by the Auto mode. Downshift as you are coming to a stop or slowing, and let the engine supply the friction. In general, drive as SMOOTHLY as possible (no full-throttle starts, avoid slamming on brakes for first 200 miles) and vary it up (no prolonged constant speeds).
Once you hit the 1,200 mark, you should be able to gradually increase rpm's into the upper limits to exploit the engine's full potential. Remember, that's probably one of the key reasons you bought the car and what makes it so enjoyable. A little restraint on the front end of ownership goes a long way.
I'm sorry if I raised some concern about break-in -- did not intend to. Had more written but burrsr got there first (thanks). It is hard to interpret how long to drive before speed variations: my dealer offered 10 to 15 minutes but I lean more toward 3 to 5. I'm sure other times work out just fine.
Hi, it's me agian. Mention about duration. I have not driven for long trips. Just to and back from work about 22 miles each way. Will it be long enough? Thanks for all the advises. Meg
"Many GM insiders hope that a simple application of the BMW badge on the Aztek will entice multitudes of buyers to this unique vehicle." ...I don't care if they plaster $100 bills all over the thing. You could not pay me to drive that thing. The BMW badge won't change a thing!
Well after 3 days in my service loaner 3.0 Z3 its time to go back. A few impressions,
lots o fun, and I was suprised at the loudness of the exhaust on this car ......
for me the seats were very comfortable. and there was no sliding around.
only negative is i dont like the blind spots on this car, im used to being able to look over my shoulder guess i dont have enough faith in the side mirrors lol, and the rear plastic window had a horrible film on it, FYI this is a brand new 01MY with only 3k miles on the clock.
i agree with the ealier post this would make a great 2nd or 3rd car,.
Huper Optik window film i was quoted $495.00, for a 3er sedan, anyone else get quotes ?
Same distance that I drive everyday in my new 325. That distance is perfectly fine for break-in. I wish my wife was a fraction as conciencious as you appear to be. She would be asking...."Break-in? Why would I need to break-in if I have a key?"
The exhaust tip has a bolt, all you have to do is put the tail chrome tip in the rear and tighten it down (the bolt that is). The bolt is to hold the chrome tip in place, when your car runs, the muffler rattles and may cause the tip to fall out. I know the chrome tip sits snugley in, but with the rattle the car endures, it will come lose if you don't tighten it down. NO drilling is involved in this process at all. Mine was sooo tight, i could not even move it right to left, so I use a hammer and lightly tap it in, with a 2x4 cutted short and wrapped with a towel as i described in earlier post. I hat the bolt, but mine was missing the nut, so i had to go to a hardware store to find it. Hope this helps!
Guys, I am planning a trip to Canada in October. Hopefully, I'll get my bimmer sometime in August (I'm thinking late August). The itinerary: Manchester, NH-Quebec City-Montreal-Toronto-Manchester. That's like 1500 highway miles. I am not sure if I'll have the time to drive around much during September, maybe a couple of day trips. Anyway, 99% of my driving during the break-in period will be on the highway at pretty constant speeds. Is a 10 mph fluctuation good enough?
I'm sure that over the 1,500 miles you will have stopped and started the car several times (probably at least 5 for gas alone). I'd vary the speeds for, say, about 10 min at a time at speeds from 50-80mph. Don't use the cruise. Downshift to 4th every now and then, maybe even 3rd (not exceeding 4,500rpm). The key thing is that the engine experiences as many heating/cooling cycles as possible -- this happens, as Allano described so well, by varying the engine speeds. A 1,500 road-trip is probably the most efficient and timely way to achieve break-in. Otherwise, it's accomplished via stop-and-go routines which may take 1-2 months. So you'll be able to enjoy the full range that much sooner!
Something I never even thought about until reading your post... neither of my previous cars mentioned in my original post ever went beyond 3K miles without an oil change. I guess they just didn't have a chance to lose oil.
I think burrsr and I are joined at the hip when it comes to breaking in a car. I usually start the first 500 miles shifting a lot (3rd & 4th) with speeds under 60mph. This aids in keeping speeds at a level where you can stop gently and puts you at a mind-set where you are not likely to brutalize the clutch or over-rev the engine. After these initial 500 miles, I believe the break-in process should continue at high(er) speeds (burrsr's 50 - 80, mine from 55 to 85 in 3 min intervals) since this is the speed range most of us will drive normally - it extends the polishing process to higher temperatures.
I was going through the E46 Problems board, and someone mentioned this:
"...I made an offer on a BMW 3-series last year to a dealer who refused it because it was manufactured in S. Africa. He said the S. African cars are for dealer use only (demos, loaners, etc) and ARE NOT to be sold to the public."
I'm not sure if there is a consensus. If you're leasing, though, it makes no sense at all to me to change more often than the recommended 15,000 miles.
If you're keeping the car for 100,000 plus miles, and you're anal (like me) you'll probably want to change the oil at 1500 miles and then at every multiple of 3000 or 5000 miles. If you're just the opposite of anal, I think 15,000 is the number no matter how long you plan on keeping the car.
Hello everyone, Seeing all these posts about break-in periods it got me thinking. I took care of part my break-in period by taking an 700 mile(round-trip) Detroit-Pittsburgh. I kept under 4500rpm (except only a couple of times and that was only for half a second). The only thing that I did not know was about the cruise control 'cause I did use it. I don't remember for how long at a time I had it activated, but it was not for too long at a time. I am planning on keeping the car for 100K miles so I hope I did not do anything wrong.
Also, I was wondering about the Step and how much people use it. Do people use regular mode, Sport mode or manual mode the most? Is it good to use Manual Mode for engine breaking or will it not be good for the Step transmission in the long run? I like the Sport and Manual modes better and I was wondering if driving the car in these modes would be bad for the transmission in the long run.
Since none of the experts have answered yet, I'll give it a shot.
I read that at one point in time, South African built 3-series cars were for dealer use only. That has changed and cars built there are now sold to the public. I know that some 325i's are built there.
Thanks....I just wonder what the difference would be anyways, let's say, if the dealer were to use a model straight from German assembly instead....does it just come down to cost???
Do I smell a bad joke post here? The link ends in "com.de"-like "comedy" maybe? Isn't aculex one of M3 Frank's "buddies" from the BMW/MB/Lexus Comparison Board that was closed down because they couldn't make nice? What do you think, Frank, is aculex trolling?
I'M LOOKING TO BUY A 1993 BMW 325IS WITH 44000 MILES, SONY DETACHABLE FACE STEREO, SPOILER, TWO SETS OF WHEELS CHROME & SILVER, IN MINT CONDITION, FOR $13,000.00
I DO NOT KNOW MUCH ABOUT BMW'S, CAN SOME ONE ENLIGHTEN ME ON HOW GOOD OR BAD THIS CAR IS.
I've been comparing the pix side by side (2001 vs 2002) and I think that the front of the 2001 looks A LOT nicer. I don't like the fog lights on the new model. What do you guys think?
You've posted this in quite a number of discussions all over Town Hall and this is the second time you've posted this information in this particular discussion. Can you provide a link to this information? You've been asked to do so here and in some other places you have posted. The site you are quoting seems to not exist with or without "www" preceding what you have posted?
Seems like somebody, somewhere would have this in English. This is big news if it is true..
Drove to Boston for a day and a half (outbound leg got 33.4 mpg with an average speed of 73.1) and there are 139 new posts!
Newmoon,
There are a few other points to consider when looking at the oil change interval:
The 323, 325, 328 & 330 vehicles all take nearly 10 quarts of oil compared to a normal engine of this size taking between 4 and 5 quarts. Twice the oil will yield twice the distance before an oil change is needed.
These cars are certified as a "Low Emission Vehicle" (LEV), and as a result produce a mere fraction of the combustion byproducts when compared to cars from just 5 years ago. Fewer byproducts yield less junk for the oil to hold in suspension waiting for that next oil change, and of course a longer interval between said oil change.
Synthetic oil is both far more able so sustain it's lubricative properties and capable of holding far more contaminates in suspension than regular oil. Once again, yielding a longer interval between oil changes.
I am confident that my car will sustain no engine damage with the ~15K oil change interval. Indecently, it is my understanding that the computer calculates the interval based upon how much fuel you consume, not the miles driven. If you sit on the Interstate all day long with the Cruise Control set to 65, you are likely to see the computer calculate an interval well in excess of 16K miles, conversely, if you "Track" your car frequently, you might see an interval calculated at under 10K miles.
But I think what many of us are interested in is a link to the information about GM and BMW that you have posted in many discussions throughout Town Hall - a link in English would be outstanding, but it is puzzling to many of us that the site you referenced does not seem to exist.
There is no truth in the claim that South Africa cars are for any use different than Germany cars. The quality of these vehicles matches in every area those made in Germany and they are ordered for stock or as a sold order just the same as a German car. The only differences are that they only make the 325i version and only in 2WD.
Pontiac, like many manufactures, has and continue to copy BMW style. The 93 Grand Am with almost the same style kidney grill hood as the 93 3 series unsurprisingly boar a striking resemblance. Anyone who's automotive understanding leads them to make a statement like "I was a big fan of the 93 Grand Am" needs to be working in a totally different industry. As far away from cars as possible.
We won't be seeing the sale of BMW anytime in the near future.
I've been out of town for a week and have missed the latest on the boards. I was wondering if you could check once more on the status of my car: black 5 speed 330xi, PP, SP, CWP, CD going to Freeport, NY. Thanks.
drempt--I will sure to take photos of the momentous occasion! Thanks!
platypus--I'm in complete agreement w/ you about the 2002. There isn't a thing I would change about the styling of the 2001. They just ruined really good thing by making minor changes that just look plain wrong.
tchoo--What's the word on your car? Has your dealer even contacted you yet? Hopefully, you've gotten good news.
I will send an update tomorrow on my car after I take delivery and drive it (for a long time). No digital camera, so photos will have to wait a couple of days.
I'm pretty sure that the GMW revelation was concocted to rouse a few laughs; I thought it was hilarious. Any article which makes reference to a 93 Grand Am in a positive light is bound to be a parody. Bravo to aculex if it is an original creation, remarkably well written. If indeed it is true, then I have provided yet another example of my heighted sense of misperception. -Getz
since my insp 1 was completed late yesterday i went back and looked at the invoice, there are 4 different job #s. one being the oil change,one being a replaced roundel i noticed that was deffective and the 3rd and fourth say recall but don't explain, i will call service manager as see if i allready got the new therm.
WOW, took 3 hours to read all the past posts I missed for the last two weeks!
ordered my girl today - SP/Metallic Blue/'ette/CD/OBI/Split Rear seats, now nothing to but begin the long wait.
RE: BMW & GM I was privy to a meeting over a year ago with Ford personnel and there was discussion of Ford buying BMW but obviously that has not happened.
Comments
1) Keep rpm's under 4,500 for the first 1,200 miles
2) don't drive at a constant speed for more than a few minutes at a time (i.e., don;t use cruise for first 1,200 miles)
Also, with the step, I'd use the Manual mode as mush as possible. Engine braking is good during the break-in period and usually won't be accomplished by the Auto mode. Downshift as you are coming to a stop or slowing, and let the engine supply the friction. In general, drive as SMOOTHLY as possible (no full-throttle starts, avoid slamming on brakes for first 200 miles) and vary it up (no prolonged constant speeds).
Once you hit the 1,200 mark, you should be able to gradually increase rpm's into the upper limits to exploit the engine's full potential. Remember, that's probably one of the key reasons you bought the car and what makes it so enjoyable. A little restraint on the front end of ownership goes a long way.
It is hard to interpret how long to drive before speed variations: my dealer offered 10 to 15 minutes but I lean more toward 3 to 5. I'm sure other times work out just fine.
...I don't care if they plaster $100 bills all over the thing. You could not pay me to drive that thing. The BMW badge won't change a thing!
lots o fun, and I was suprised at the loudness of the exhaust on this car ......
for me the seats were very comfortable. and there was no sliding around.
only negative is i dont like the blind spots on this car, im used to being able to look over my shoulder guess i dont have enough faith in the side mirrors lol, and the rear plastic window had a horrible film on it, FYI this is a brand new 01MY with only 3k miles on the clock.
i agree with the ealier post this would make a great 2nd or 3rd car,.
Huper Optik window film i was quoted $495.00, for a 3er sedan, anyone else get quotes ?
Regards,
DL
I wish my wife was a fraction as conciencious as you appear to be. She would be asking...."Break-in? Why would I need to break-in if I have a key?"
Austin's section of I35 can be trecherous. Zero to 80 to zero in seconds. Then there's the stretch near UT.
Since the 2002 3er models are starting production in October 2001, when is the latest purchase/lease date so that I can make sure I get a 2001 model?
Also, what is the difference in the premium, or how much will I be paying more between a 2001 and 2002 325i/330i?
Thanks!
"...I made an offer on a BMW 3-series last year to a dealer who refused it because it was manufactured in S. Africa. He said the S. African cars are for dealer use only (demos, loaners, etc) and ARE NOT to be sold to the public."
Is there any truth to this statement???
Can you comment on this as opposed to the trunk mounted changer?
If you're keeping the car for 100,000 plus miles, and you're anal (like me) you'll probably want to change the oil at 1500 miles and then at every multiple of 3000 or 5000 miles. If you're just the opposite of anal, I think 15,000 is the number no matter how long you plan on keeping the car.
Seeing all these posts about break-in periods it got me thinking. I took care of part my break-in period by taking an 700 mile(round-trip) Detroit-Pittsburgh. I kept under 4500rpm (except only a couple of times and that was only for half a second). The only thing that I did not know was about the cruise control 'cause I did use it. I don't remember for how long at a time I had it activated, but it was not for too long at a time.
I am planning on keeping the car for 100K miles so I hope I did not do anything wrong.
Also, I was wondering about the Step and how much people use it. Do people use regular mode, Sport mode or manual mode the most? Is it good to use Manual Mode for engine breaking or will it not be good for the Step transmission in the long run?
I like the Sport and Manual modes better and I was wondering if driving the car in these modes would be bad for the transmission in the long run.
Thanks
I read that at one point in time, South African built 3-series cars were for dealer use only. That has changed and cars built there are now sold to the public. I know that some 325i's are built there.
The long wait is almost over...
AAAAAAAAAAAAAOOOOOOOOOGGGGGGGAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!
I DO NOT KNOW MUCH ABOUT BMW'S, CAN SOME ONE ENLIGHTEN ME ON HOW GOOD OR BAD THIS CAR IS.
TX
Seems like somebody, somewhere would have this in English. This is big news if it is true..
Let us know.
Pat
Host
Sedans and Women's Auto Center Message Boards
But I just don't like the shape of the grill on the 02s
Newmoon,
There are a few other points to consider when looking at the oil change interval:
The 323, 325, 328 & 330 vehicles all take nearly 10 quarts of oil compared to a normal engine of this size taking between 4 and 5 quarts. Twice the oil will yield twice the distance before an oil change is needed.
These cars are certified as a "Low Emission Vehicle" (LEV), and as a result produce a mere fraction of the combustion byproducts when compared to cars from just 5 years ago. Fewer byproducts yield less junk for the oil to hold in suspension waiting for that next oil change, and of course a longer interval between said oil change.
Synthetic oil is both far more able so sustain it's lubricative properties and capable of holding far more contaminates in suspension than regular oil. Once again, yielding a longer interval between oil changes.
I am confident that my car will sustain no engine damage with the ~15K oil change interval. Indecently, it is my understanding that the computer calculates the interval based upon how much fuel you consume, not the miles driven. If you sit on the Interstate all day long with the Cruise Control set to 65, you are likely to see the computer calculate an interval well in excess of 16K miles, conversely, if you "Track" your car frequently, you might see an interval calculated at under 10K miles.
Glad to be back.
Best Regards,
Shipo
- Headlamps on 2002 try too hard to be unique
- Front bumper is too plain
- Grill is too wide
- Rear taillamps are grotesque
Car has a softer, less aggressive look to it.
All IMHO of course.
But I think what many of us are interested in is a link to the information about GM and BMW that you have posted in many discussions throughout Town Hall - a link in English would be outstanding, but it is puzzling to many of us that the site you referenced does not seem to exist.
Can you clarify?
Pat
Host
Sedans and Women's Auto Center Message Boards
Pontiac, like many manufactures, has and continue to copy BMW style. The 93 Grand Am with almost the same style kidney grill hood as the 93 3 series unsurprisingly boar a striking resemblance. Anyone who's automotive understanding leads them to make a statement like "I was a big fan of the 93 Grand Am" needs to be working in a totally different industry. As far away from cars as possible.
We won't be seeing the sale of BMW anytime in the near future.
I've been out of town for a week and have missed the latest on the boards. I was wondering if you could check once more on the status of my car: black 5 speed 330xi, PP, SP, CWP, CD going to Freeport, NY. Thanks.
platypus--I'm in complete agreement w/ you about the 2002. There isn't a thing I would change about the styling of the 2001. They just ruined really good thing by making minor changes that just look plain wrong.
tchoo--What's the word on your car? Has your dealer even contacted you yet? Hopefully, you've gotten good news.
I will send an update tomorrow on my car after I take delivery and drive it (for a long time). No digital camera, so photos will have to wait a couple of days.
-Getz
Regards,
DL
ordered my girl today - SP/Metallic Blue/'ette/CD/OBI/Split Rear seats, now nothing to but begin the long wait.
RE: BMW & GM
I was privy to a meeting over a year ago with Ford personnel and there was discussion of Ford buying BMW but obviously that has not happened.