Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, valve train, timing, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, ECU (DME) diagnostics and programming.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (if applicable to specific models within the range) repair, clutch, driveline components.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 6HP series) disassembly, assembly, valve body, torque converter, transmission control (TCU).
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (xDrive) system, transfer case, differential (front and rear), drive shafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, air suspension (if equipped).
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, steering angle sensor, power steering fluid.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relays.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, seals, chassis structure, corrosion protection, frame repair.
Interior:
Seats, trim panels, dashboard, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), climate control, airbags, seatbelts.
Infotainment And Electronics:
iDrive system, navigation, audio system, Bluetooth, USB, displays, head unit repair, electronic module diagnostics.
Driver Assistance:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Parking Assistant, Head-Up Display (HUD), camera systems, sensor calibration.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, brake checks, general inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components (e.g., alternator, water pump, starter, fuel injectors, sensors).
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine rebuilding, including torque specifications, piston ring gap, bearing clearance, valve adjustments.
Transmission Repair:
Complete overhaul procedures for automatic and manual transmissions, including gearbox disassembly, clutch packs, and mechatronics.
Brake System Service:
Brake fluid bleeding, pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, ABS/DSC component testing and replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Reading wiring diagrams, testing circuits, diagnosing module faults, component testing using multimeters and oscilloscopes.
Body Repair:
Panel alignment, dent removal, welding procedures, glass replacement, weatherstripping installation.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant system servicing, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), climate control module diagnostics.
Wheel Alignment:
Alignment specifications and procedures for front and rear suspensions.
Tire And Wheel:
Tire pressure specifications, wheel torque specifications, tire rotation, balancing.
Depth:
Extensive, covering from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical and diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic strategies, including the use of BMW's ISTA (Integrated Service Information) system principles, fault code interpretation, and live data analysis.
Specifications:
Includes precise torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance readings, and voltage specifications for all systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system, typically recommending oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually. Consult the manual for precise intervals based on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary by engine; typically around 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for gasoline engines. Refer to manual for specifics.
Transmission Fluid Service:
BMW typically designated automatic transmission fluid as 'lifetime' for this era, but many specialists recommend fluid and filter changes around 50,000-80,000 miles (80,000-120,000 km) for longevity.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) approved synthetic oils, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30 viscosity. Check manual for specific engine requirements.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Shell M-1375.4 (ZF Lifeguardfluid5) or equivalent for GA6HP26Z transmission.
Common Engine Problems:
Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS solenoids, PCV system issues, N63 'Trophy Engine' issues (e.g., carbon buildup, oil consumption, ignition coil failures), coolant leaks from gaskets and hoses.
Common Transmission Problems:
Mechatronic sleeve leaks in automatic transmissions, torque converter issues, transmission control module (TCM) faults.
Common Suspension Problems:
Worn control arm bushings, air suspension compressor failures (if equipped), front strut mount wear.
Common Electrical Problems:
Water pump failure (electric), alternator failure, battery drain due to modules, iDrive system glitches, tailgate actuator issues.
Common Drivetrain Problems:
Transfer case actuator failures, differential seal leaks, driveshaft flex disc wear.