Engine Mechanical:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul for all applicable gasoline engines (M20, M30, M50 variants).
Engine Management Electronic:
Bosch Motronic system diagnostics, sensor data, actuators, troubleshooting, wiring diagrams.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulation, emissions control (catalytic converter, secondary air injection).
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan operation, coolant specifications, bleeding procedures.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, oxygen sensors, exhaust leaks.
Transmission Manual:
Gearbox overhaul, clutch system, shift linkage, fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission identification, hydraulic control, torque converter, electronic control unit (ECU) for transmission, fluid specifications, service procedures.
Drivetrain Rear Axle:
Differential service, axle shafts, wheel bearings, limited-slip differential (LSD) service if applicable.
Brakes System:
Front and rear disc brake service, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs, alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Power steering system, steering rack/box, tie rods, steering wheel, alignment.
Electrical System Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, bulb specifications.
Electrical System Charging:
Alternator, battery, voltage regulator, wiring.
Electrical System Starting:
Starter motor, ignition switch, ignition system (spark plugs, coils, distributor for applicable models).
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals.
Body Interior:
Dashboard, seats, trim panels, headliner, HVAC system controls.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) components, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant, climate control unit.
Instrumentation:
Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, diagnostics.
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (if equipped), structural integrity.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical system wiring diagrams for all major components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake checks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Engine Repair:
Engine removal and installation, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, timing chain/belt replacement.
Transmission Repair:
Transmission disassembly and reassembly, seal replacement, clutch replacement, torque converter replacement.
Brake Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, master cylinder replacement, ABS component testing and replacement.
Suspension Repair:
Shock absorber and strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, ball joint replacement.
Electrical Diagnosis:
Component testing, circuit diagnosis, connector repair, fuse and relay identification.
Body Panel Repair:
Door hinge adjustment, window regulator repair, lock mechanism servicing.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant charging, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, expansion valve), blower motor replacement.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized BMW tools required for certain procedures.
Depth:
In-depth, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine management, ABS, and automatic transmission systems.
Specifications Accuracy:
Factory-level torque specifications, tolerances, and clearances for all major components.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
BMW recommends synthetic 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on climate (refer to owner's manual for exact specification).
Coolant Type:
BMW blue antifreeze or equivalent silicate-free coolant (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (P/N 81 22 9 407 763) or Pentosin CHF 11S.
Common Wear Items:
Vibrations from driveshaft center support bearing, coolant leaks from plastic water pump impellers or hose connectors, aging rubber bushings, ABS sensor failures, fuel pump failures.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can develop due to aging wiring insulation, corroded connectors, or failing grounds, particularly in the engine bay and fuse box.
Engine Specific Issues:
M20: Oil pan gasket leaks. M30: Head gasket issues, oil leaks. M50: VANOS unit (on later models, not typically an issue for early M50s), thermostat housing leaks.