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BMW 5-Series Maintenance and Repair

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Comments

  • stamia2kstamia2k Member Posts: 1
    have a 1998 bmw 528i car want stay running when iginition is turned. If i put my foot on the accelartion it will stay running, but has soon as i release it it shuts down. Had fixed before was told something about floor sensor. can i replace this?
  • tayl0rdtayl0rd Member Posts: 1,926
    I had a '99 Mustang GT several years ago that developed that same problem. Turned out to be a faulty Idle Air Control solenoid. I don't know if BMWs use a similar device, but it was a ~$20 part and only took about two minutes to replace it myself.
  • andrewky33andrewky33 Member Posts: 4
    This is my 4th BMW, having had a 2000 528i, an '03 Z-3, and an '06 330cic. I took delivery of my 528xi in late February 2008. All was good until early May when I got a message on the I-Drive screen that the transmission was overheated, but that the car could still be driven albeit with reduced performance. Since that message appeared, the transmission has developed a severe shifting problem where the car will violently downshift into first gear when accelerating after turning a corner or from a very low speed. It's even worse when turning onto an uphill grade and then accelerating. The BMW Store has been superb in their efforts to repair the car, but unfortunately it seems that the issue is a software problem that BMW engineering has yet to address. I have been told that they are working on the problem and that hopefully an update will be available sometime in September. The person at BMW's customer service department with whom I spoke was of no help whatsoever and was actually quite condescending during our conversation. I have now driven my car 4 months with this shifting problem, and am hoping that no internal hard part damage is being done to the transmission when it slams into first gear. Has anyone else experienced anything similar?
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    SI B 24 23 07
    Automatic Transmission

    February 2008
    Technical Service

    This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B24 23 07 dated December 2007.

    [NEW] designates changes to this revision
    SUBJECT:
    6-Speed Automatic Transmissions Diagnosis and Troubleshooting Hints

    MODEL:
    All with ZF 6HP transmission
    All with GM6 transmission

    [NEW] SITUATION

    Diagnosing symptoms involving 6-speed automatic transmissions and determining the root causes of the complaints are the areas where specialized assistance is often needed. Due to the high cost and complexity of the 6-speed automatic transmissions, an Enhanced Technical Support process has been developed to help identify the root causes of customer complaints relating to Automatic Transmissions concerns.

    All diagnostic and troubleshooting steps listed in this Service Bulletin should be performed prior to submitting a PuMA case ("TC Case" or regular technical support "Case").

    A PuMA case may be submitted ONLY after all appropriate diagnostic steps and/or hints listed below were performed and diagnostic results are inconclusive (regular technical support case), or when a component replacement (transmission, Mechatronic, or VB-TECHM) is requested ("TC Case"). Such a PuMA case has to include all the necessary information required by B24 23 07.
    IMPORTANT Both "TC Cases" and regular technical support "Cases" are NOT going to be processed, and will be rejected as "unjustified", if the basic diagnostic troubleshooting procedures and pertaining information required by SI B24 23 07 are not performed and submitted.

    PROCEDURE

    When diagnosing the 6-speed automatic transmission complaints, the following troubleshooting steps should be performed, and required information needs to be included in a PuMA contact (both "TC Case" or a regular technical support case):
    1. Customer Concern

    ^ Drive the vehicle to reproduce the customer's complaint.

    ^ Be as specific as possible when describing the issue at hand, including the exact driving and environmental conditions required to reproduce the complaint. ("Transmission is shifting badly" will create more questions than answers).

    ^ If the complaint cannot be verified, contact the customer to obtain a specific description of the problem. If possible, test drive with the customer, observing any unusual driving habits (e.g., "Two-footed driver").

    2. FASTA Data

    ^ Perform a "Short Test" and transmit the FASTA data prior to programming or troubleshooting. In many instances, the "uncontaminated" FASTA information may be helpful in determining the root cause.

    3. Transmission Fluid Level/Fluid Condition

    ^ Check the fluid level for all transmission concerns, even if there are no obvious signs of external leakage.

    ^ Follow the appropriate fluid level checking procedures. The main items to remember are:

    ^ Check the level at fluid temperature between 30°to 50°C.

    ^ Engine running at idle.

    ^ Transmission in Park.

    ^ Vehicle leveled and secured against movements.

    ^ If the fluid does not flow out when the plug is removed, then add the appropriate amount until it trickles out. DO NOT insert your fingers into the filler hole to check where the transmission fluid is! !!

    ^ Make sure that you are checking the fluid level at the correct filler (overflow) plug, since they have different locations. (On the E53 with 6HP26, the overflow plug is in the pan; on other applications, it is located on the side or at the rear of the transmission.)

    4. Transmission Shift Concerns and Fluid Leaks

    ^ Adjust and/or correct the fluid level, and then clear the EGS adaptation values and test drive.

    ^ If the shift issue is resolved, then address the root cause of the leak.

    ^ If the complaint is unresolved, then submit a PuMA case for further instruction.

    5. External Damage

    ^ Inspect the transmission oil pan for obvious signs of impact.

    ^ Inspect the external shift or emergency release cable adjustment, bracket and lever.

    6. Transmission Fault Codes

    ^ Diagnostic fault codes are an essential tool for troubleshooting. Print and secure the fault codes before clearing. Perform all applicable DIS/GT1 test plans as prompted by the EGS fault codes stored.

    ^ For the EDS (pressure regulators) and the MV (magnetic valves) fault codes, check the environmental conditions when the faults were set. In general, electronic transmission control units work correctly when the voltage range is between 10V and 15V. If the fault codes environmental conditions indicate voltage below 10V or above 15V, then troubleshoot vehicle's electrical system, e.g., the battery, battery connections, grounds, charging system, the integrity of the vehicle's transmission harness and its connector (X85xx).

    ^ Prioritize the relevance of all driveability-related faults stored in the DME, DSC or EGS control modules. For example, if the vehicle ran out of fuel and the engine stalled, the consecutive misfire and transmission gear monitoring faults (slippage faults) are irrelevant. Various engine driveability complaints ("stumbling, poor running, hesitation") caused by poor fuel quality may also result in transmission shift quality complaints.

    7. Aftermarket Equipment

    ^ Inspect the vehicle for the presence of any aftermarket equipment (including wheels and tires), or software which may affect vehicle performance or may cause customer concern.

    ^ Mention any modifications to the vehicle (e.g., "Conversion to a stretch limo") in the submitted PuMA case.

    8. Programming Replacement Transmissions and Mechatroniks/VB-TECHMs

    ^ Print the short and the long EGS ID page before removing the transmission or Mechatronik (VB-TECHM). You may need the part numbers for the programming of the replacement unit. Refer to SI B24 18 07 (Programming of replacement Transmission or Mechatronic) for helpful hints on EGS programming.

    ^ On vehicles equipped with the GWS gear shifter, prior to transmission or Mechatronic replacement, perform the "EWS Reset Function" using the DIS/GT1 path: "Service Functions/Transmission control/Calibrations/EWS Reset/Test plan".

    9. Repair History

    ^ Check the repair history to see if there were any recent repairs that could affect the proper operation of the transmission. (If the vehicle returns with a transmission slippage concern after an oil leak repair, chances are that the transmission fluid level is incorrect, causing a new driveability complaint.)

    10. SI Bulletins

    ^ Check to see if there are any Service Information Bulletins that apply to your specific complaint. Make sure that both "subject" content and the affected vehicle model match your case.

    ^ Follow the SI B instructions exactly. (SI B24 14 07 states that the guibo needs to be removed for the inspection; a visual external inspection will not be sufficient to reveal the loose bushings that we are checking it for.)

    11. Vehicle VIN Number

    ^ Double check the VIN number before submitting a PuMA case. The incorrect VIN will prevent access to FASTA information. Also, the requested IBAC programming codes will not work with an incorrect VIN.

    12. [NEW] Transmission Serial Number/Part Number

    ^ Always provide a transmission serial number and part number from the transmission's ID tag. The transmission serial number is an essential piece of information needed by the Hotline Expert; it is especially useful on repeat complaints afier a transmission replacement.

    13. PuMA Reporter and Valid Phone Number

    ^ Preferably, the reporter listed in the PuMA case should also be the person who works on the vehicle. If it's not possible, mention your name in the "Work performed" section of the case.

    ^ Always provide a direct and a valid phone number so that you can be easily contacted if necessary by the Transmission Expert.

    14. Warranty, CPO or Goodwill Replacements

    ^ Transmission and Mechatronik/VB-TECHM replacements covered under BMW Warranty, Goodwill or Certified Pre-Owned programs require PuMA authorization. Use the PuMA contact number as your replacement authorization. Refer to SI B24 09 00 (Automatic Transmission Repair & Replacement) for more details.

    ^ Goodwill considerations also require you to contact your BMW NA field representative and to inform him of the PuMA case and your intentions.
  • wax_71wax_71 Member Posts: 3
    Hi I just purchased a 2002 530iA with 57k from a BMW dealership.Never had a 5 before. Had a 04 330xi before but this car is much more my thing.I love it ( 2 days in)
    After looking through the great forum info I think it would be good to find an independent BMW technician.Does anyone know of anybody out this way? I live in the southwest suburbs of Chicago.
    I guesst he car is due for its Service 2 at 60k
    Approx how much does a Inspection/Service 2 cost at a dealership?
    The car as documented history through 40k and then nothing. Which worries me a little but i hope that getting it from a BMW dealership means that the work they did on it ( $1400 worth) when they took it in means I'm not gonna be stuck with a wallet sucking car.
    Thanks
    Wax
  • andys120andys120 Member Posts: 23,368
    Does anyone know of anybody out this way? I live in the southwest suburbs of Chicago.

    Bimrs.org has a website listing member repair shops, all are BMW Specialists (including the folks who take care of my car). There's several in Illinois.

    Or you could join the BMW Car Club of America and check their database,
    www.bmwcca.org.

    Good luck with your E39. :shades:

    2001 BMW 330ci/E46, 2008 BMW 335i conv/E93

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    Approx how much does a Inspection/Service 2 cost at a dealership?

    Swope BMW in Louisville, Ky only charged $382 to perform an Inspection II on my wife's 2004 X3 2.5- and that figure included a brake fluid flush as well as the cost of repairing a bit of curb rash on the RF wheel. I brought my own Mobil 1 0W-40 so the grand total was $424.
    As for indie shops, I'm sure that members of the local CCA chapter(Windy City) would be happy to provide recommendations.
    And let me echo what Andy said; enjoy your 5er. The E39 is still one of the best sports/luxury sedans out there.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • jhox85jhox85 Member Posts: 35
    Guys I need help. I tried to look in the past discussions to see if I find something on my problem but found nothing. Anyway I have a 2002, 530i BMW 5-speed stick that has been a great car except for one thing. When I turn on the fan to get some air in the car (or even with A/C) the speed of the fan suddenly goes high and then low as if someone just arbitrarily changes the fan speed, quickly. If I shut the fan off completely I still can hear it run. The bad thing is that even when I shut the engine off and take the keys out, the fan still runs and it typically stops after about 5-10 minutes. But apparently last time it must have been running longer than usual so it drained the battery. One other electrical snafu that I have with this car is that sometimes when I put a CD to play it says “no disc” but after about 5-10 minutes of driving it starts to play.

    I just need some guidance so when I take it in for repair then I have some ideas. Thanks a bunch.
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    I just need some guidance so when I take it in for repair then I have some ideas.

    The problem is almost certainly what BMW calls the Final Stage Unit. It's an extremely simple DIY fix. The how-to can be found here. You should be able to find the part for under $90.
    As for the CD changer, you might try a different CD magazine to see if the problem persists. Failing that, you will have to take it to an auto sound shop.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    What IS that thing exactly?
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    What IS that thing exactly?

    As I understand it, the FSU is essentially a somewhat complex resistor pack- which explains the strange HVAC fan behavior when it goes bad.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • andys120andys120 Member Posts: 23,368
    the FSU is essentially a somewhat complex resistor pack

    Leave it those German engineers, the Ashtray in my Bimmer has like 20 parts. ;)

    2001 BMW 330ci/E46, 2008 BMW 335i conv/E93

  • r34r34 Member Posts: 178
    Nowadays, a V8 BMW could be around the same price as a V6 BMW. I have a question.

    Consumer report said the V8 was unreliable but I didn't know whether they were based on 545i or 550i.

    I saw quiet a number of V8 5-series on the roads. Any comments?
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    Nowadays, a V8 BMW could be around the same price as a V6 BMW. I have a question.

    There is no such thing as a BMW V6.

    Consumer report said the V8 was unreliable but I didn't know whether they were based on 545i or 550i

    They require a bit more maintenance than the sixes, but most owners believe that the V8's power and torque characteristics outweigh any additional service/repair costs. In any event, Consumer Report's ratings do not provide conclusive evidence of a vehicle's overall reliability.

    I saw quite a number of V8 5-series on the roads. Any comments?

    See above.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • r34r34 Member Posts: 178
    Oh, you are right. It should be I6 for BMW.

    More maintenance? Does it mean more repairs or it means it will cost more for the same kind of maintenance?

    For Consumer Report, I am ok with their consumer electronics reviews but I don't really trust their car reviews. It seems that they were looking cars for A to B drivers.
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    More maintenance? Does it mean more repairs or it means it will cost more for the same kind of maintenance?

    The V8s valve covers tend to leak, and the eights also will usually require a new radiator at @60K-70K. You might check out BMW Tips.com for some specific information- at least as to E39 5ers.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • andys120andys120 Member Posts: 23,368
    Wasn't there an issue with the Nikasil cyclinder liners on early E39 V8s ('98-'99), (BMW replaced most under warranty IIRC)?

    2001 BMW 330ci/E46, 2008 BMW 335i conv/E93

  • shiposhipo Member Posts: 9,148
    Wasn't there an issue with the Nikasil cyclinder liners on early E39 V8s ('98-'99), (BMW replaced most under warranty IIRC)?

    I believe that you're thinking of the V8 issues the previous generation of the 5-Series had. As far as I know, the E39 V8s were quite durable.

    Best regards,
    Shipo
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    Shipo is correct; in the US the Nikasil problems only affected the E34 V8s.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • sirdarby1sirdarby1 Member Posts: 36
    Hey Guys:

    I have a 2003 530i with 70k miles.

    One of my coworkers told me my car alarm was going off in the parking garage yesterday. By the time I got there it was off but the same thing happened at the grocery store later and then again in my garage last night.

    Is there a reset button or do I have to take to dealer?

    Thanks
  • sirdarby1sirdarby1 Member Posts: 36
    Same thing is happening to me now. How did you fix it.
  • andys120andys120 Member Posts: 23,368
    I find that the motion sensor built into the BMW factory alarm on my E39 is hair-trigger sensitive, a passing breeze can set it off if the roof is open.

    The solution is to either close the sunroof or double click the LOCK button, this turns the motion sensor off. I've even set it off by standing next to the car w/o touching it!

    2001 BMW 330ci/E46, 2008 BMW 335i conv/E93

  • sirdarby1sirdarby1 Member Posts: 36
    Thanks a bunch. I double clicked the lock button and it worked.

    On another note, on the same 2003 530i, upon tuning the key in the morning, the motor turns over fine, but I hear a slight spinning sound like a loose belt or pulley after it turns over.

    The dealer replicated it once during service, but could not sustain the sound long enough to determine the cause. Now I am hearing it a little more frequently.

    Any ideas?
  • sirdarby1sirdarby1 Member Posts: 36
    Actually doubleclicking didn't work after all and I took the car to the dealer.

    They found a defective sensor under the hood. They also found a leaky antifreeze tank.

    This is my third BMW and they are like dating high maintenance women.
  • pen101pen101 Member Posts: 238
    The car: 2002 530 5-speed SP, PP
    Current Mileage: 75K

    I intend to keep the car for at least 2 more years. These past few years I've been averaging about 8K miles per year. Had Inspection II performed at 58K and oil changed again at 68K. Do I wait for dash computer to tell me that next inspection is due, or do I perform preventative maintenance now. If answer is preventative maintence, is that just Inspection I again or is there more involved. I wanted to get info here before I call the dealer or go to an independent shop.
  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 235,188
    I'm about 99% sure that the 75K is just an oil service... Inspection I comes again at 90K...

    regards,
    kyfdx

    Edmunds Price Checker
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  • fbfan02fbfan02 Member Posts: 2
    2 months ago I replaced the radiator, tank, upper and lower hoses, and replaced the thermostat. 2 weeks ago after driving approx. 120 miles on freeway I stopped and upon restart the gauge went into the red. I let the car sit for 3-4 hours and then topped of the coolant with less than a pint of water. Was the able to drive approx. 5 miles with no overheating. Trailered the car home and had the fan clutch replaced as well as the bleeder valve which had a small leak, and another thermostat. Drove in city for 2 days and then it overheated again. Mechanic suggested burping the system to remove any air bubbles. There are no indications that would suggest a head gasket problem. The water pump is working. The thing still overheats. I'm into this for over $1000 now. At this point the car is just sitting. Any suggestions would be appreciated. In other words what else can I try before giving up and taking it to the dealership.
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    Yes you could have air in the system, so I'd have the mechanic do that procedure of bleeding the cooling system. A head gasket would be a much faster overheat than you are experiencing but I'd have the coolant checked for combustion gases nonetheless.

    If you bleed it, and check for combustion gases and it still overheats---well, then maybe the water pump needs to come out and be examined for corrosion of the impeller blades or broken impeller.

    The cooling system on these cars is not very good in terms of durability.
  • fbfan02fbfan02 Member Posts: 2
    Thanks for the prompt response. Will give it a try.
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    Thanks for the prompt response. Will give it a try.Thanks for the prompt response. Will give it a try.

    Yes, bleeding is a critical procedure on most every BMW cooling system. Make sure that the heater is on and set to maximum heat. There are two bleeder screws, one on the thermostat housing and one on the radiator. It won't hurt to raise the front of the car either.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • troyrtroyr Member Posts: 3
    i am in need of some serious help with my BMW!!!!!... i love my 540i to death, however recently i came across a huge problem. My car wont move forward. Let me explain. It accelerates and all when i put it in drive , you can even here the engine roar when you step on the gas.the rpms increase. The car does however move when i put it in reverse.Its goes into reverse perfectly. If anybody knows anything or has some advice dont hesitate to to reply to this. For now im driving around in a 1989 civic. I miss my BMW soooo much....PLEASE HELP ME OUT!!!!!!!!!
  • andys120andys120 Member Posts: 23,368
    Get thee to a transmission specialist, I'm guessing it's a bad Torque Convertor.

    2001 BMW 330ci/E46, 2008 BMW 335i conv/E93

  • troyrtroyr Member Posts: 3
    Thanks for the reply. Do you know how much that would cost me more or less?
  • bluegirl5bluegirl5 Member Posts: 2
    I have a 2002 BMW 525i with 24,000 miles. I recently purchased 4 new tires. After the tires were installed I found my steering wheel shaking violently when I went over some holes in the road at very low speeds. It doesn't happen often. I brought my car back to the tire place and after inspection they told me that I had front lower control arm bushings that were cracked & leaking and that I also had leaking rear control arm bushings. My question is how common is this on a low mileage car? Also is it better to get the bushings removed & replaced or the whole arm replaced? Most important is this a safety issue?
  • millsman0511millsman0511 Member Posts: 3
    I've been following the questions, but i havent seen one excatly like mine and im hoping you can help? Just like the others my car at idle will start to overheat? I have had to replace to upper radiotor hose because of a bad batch of hoses. Since gettign a good one that hasnt leaked, or the car? But i've also noticed that the temp comming out of the vents is mostly cool air? I have the water pump and thearsmistat and will put on this weekend. But my question is would a faulty pump and or thermistat cause the air to blow out cool when all gauges are set to 75 and air controls on 3 dots red?
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    It sounds like the cooling system needs to be bled properly.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    I don't think a control arm bushing can "leak". That sounds very odd.

    So you're saying that:

    a) the car did not shake whatsoever, at any time, prior to the new tires?

    b) that as soon as the new tires were put on, this violent shaking happened?

    If that's what you experienced, I think your tire shop doesn't know what they are doing.

    I'd take it somewhere else to check for a bent wheel, loose lug nuts, or some lift damage.

    BUT...if the shaking occurred before the new tires, then I'd have to say that these control arm bushings would have to be pretty wiped out to do that....it's plausible but I'd sure get a second opinion on that.

    Safety? Sure, any violent wheel shake is an immediate safety concern.

    So you're job is to get some better information, with PROOF that you can see.
  • bluegirl5bluegirl5 Member Posts: 2
    No, the car never shook before the tires were changed. It happens only rarely. I just became concerned because it is violent. It's only happened at very slow speeds. What is lift damage? I mainly wanted to find out if other 525 owners have had this experience on a car with low mileage.
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    Lift damage means that when they lifted the car to change the tires, they put the lift arm in the wrong place and damaged something in the steering or suspension. That's why I'd like someone else to look at it.

    I think they bent a wheel or something, or maybe there's a tire way way out of balance.

    It makes no sense that the car would not shake going in to a garage at 9 am and shake violently at 5 pm.

    Uh-uh. Something is not right here, given what you have presented to us.
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    I don't think a control arm bushing can "leak". That sounds very odd.


    Those bushing can leak on an E39, as they are liquid filled. And they can also cause the problems described, though they may not be the culprit in this situation. More than a few owners on the Yahoo E39 group have encountered that exact failure.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    Oh you mean the 'tension strut'? Maybe we are talking about different things here.

    ANYWAY---if that's what we mean, then a distant bell is going off in my head, you are correct, those things leak and cause a shake if you do some hard braking (was my rememberence of it).

    But gee, such low miles! I'm surprised, but I don't work on these cars everyday, so...

    ANYWAY AGAIN -- if that's what we are talking about, then I don't think the car is in danger, no.
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    Yes, "tension strut" is the correct term, but almost no one other than BMW techs call them that. I'll bet that the guys at the OP's tire shop think that a tension strut is some kind of dance...

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    No, no that dance is called the McPherson Strut! You need a kilt to do it properly.
  • millsman0511millsman0511 Member Posts: 3
    Would that (not bleeding the system right?) cause the coolant level to change or go down? I can tell when my coolant is low cause the heat starts blowing out cooler air. But what i've been doin is turn the key to the last click b for starting and opening the resv. tank? Is that a good way to fill up the radiotor? But once i fill it up the hot air comes back? Do you also think changin the thersmsitat and water pump would be a good idea, to prevent any thing else? Being that the water pump still has the plastic pepeller? ( thanks for the response earlier)
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    There is a specific procedure for bleeding the cooling system in your car. You need to take it to a shop that knows how to do it. If your car is nearing-or past @60000 miles it's a good idea to replace the thermostat, thermostat housing, and waterpump. And refill the system with a 50/50 mix of BMW coolant and distilled water only.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • millsman0511millsman0511 Member Posts: 3
    I plan to put all those pcs on this weekend, so I'll check back with you to let you know my status.. Thanks for all the help... This is a great site, and im glad i found it.
  • gardisgardis Member Posts: 185
    Guys,
    My 1996 328i has been maintained only by BMW. I have some minor issues. My ABS indicator lightn on the dash (triangle looking light) goes off while driving, at any random point. I have no idea why it's doing that. Anyone have any idea? I haven't approached the dealer, because I don't want to spend money on it.

    Also, what does the "A" and "M" toggle switch near the transmission selector mean?

    Appreciate it, thanks.
  • gardisgardis Member Posts: 185
    Guys, I am looking at a 2008 535i in the CPO program, with 28K miles on it. Warranty lasts until April 2013. I have concerns about that mileage. One poster advised that the turbos would be affected by such driving, and would possibly need replacement in the future. What am I up against here, should I just pass on this gorgeous vehicle. I went and looked at it yesterday, it's a dream to look at. But I keep cars for a long time, currently driving 1996 328i with 105K miles on it also bought in the CPO. They're asking $39,995 for the 2008. So far, it's on the lot at least 3 weeks, maybe 4. I didin't approach any sales people yet. I'm afraid I'm so in love with the look of the car, I'll just go with it. I need to think it over.

    What do you think guys? Am I taking a chance? Thanks guys. really value the advice on this forum. It was a great find. Thanks again.
    Gardis in CT
    gardis72@gmail.com
  • andys120andys120 Member Posts: 23,368
    Based on your questions, I deduce that you have not read the owners manual. I suggest that you do so, BMWs are a little bit different and the manual does have important information in it.

    The ABS indicator coming on intermittently is probably the result of a wheel speed sensor that's gotten a bit dirty. Your BMW tech can check and clean this up for you or replace the sensor if it's going bad. The triangle is actually warning you that the Traction Control (operated by the same sensors) is disabled

    The "A-M" toggle allows you to select a quasi-manual shift mode ("M") which enables manual selection of higher or lower gears, toggling back into "A" restores fully automatic gear selection. I find that the "manual" mode is handy when descending steep hills or traveling on winding rural byways.

    2001 BMW 330ci/E46, 2008 BMW 335i conv/E93

  • begebege Member Posts: 14
    :mad: After 6 weeks and 2,300 miles a message poped up on the screen "Engine malfunction- reduced power". When I accelerate there is no response power coming from the engine. It feels like I am driving a Trabant. Took the car on Monday to the BMW service and they inform me later that day that one of the turbos failed. They will need to replace both turbos and it will take 5 days. I am starting to regret the fact that I replaced my 2007 Infiniti M35 Sport for the 535i. Previously I had two M-B's both lemon. This is my first Ultimate driving machine and it is the Ultimate Disappointing Machine!!!!!!!! At the end of the lease I will be looking at the new Porsche Carrera S for the "There is No Substitute Machine"!
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