Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, engine control unit (ECU), sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, coolant temp), emissions control.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, transmission fluid specifications and replacement.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, fluid replacement, control systems, torque converter service.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differential, rear axle assembly, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings), alignment specifications, coil springs.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering angle sensor (if applicable).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and troubleshooting, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuses, relays, lighting systems, horn.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis structural components, rust prevention and repair.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, heater core.
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, instrument cluster, door panels, headliner, carpeting, seat belts, airbags (if equipped).
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common fault symptoms and remedies.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, drive belt inspection/replacement.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, radiator replacement.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnosing electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing components, tracing circuits.
Fuel System Service:
Fuel injector cleaning/replacement, fuel pump testing, fuel filter replacement, fuel pressure testing.
Cooling System Service:
Thermostat replacement, water pump replacement, radiator and hose inspection/replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing specific issues based on symptoms.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostics, including sensor readings, ECU functions, and troubleshooting common electronic faults.
Rebuild Scope:
Comprehensive engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, often color-coded, wiring schematics for all vehicle electrical systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized BMW tools required for specific repair procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (synthetic oil recommended)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 (synthetic recommended, API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.8 Quarts (5.5 Liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (water pump, thermostat housing), head gasket failure (especially if overheated), timing belt failure (catastrophic engine damage if it breaks).
Common Problems Electrical:
Cracked dashboard (vinyl degradation), failing instrument cluster voltage regulator, faulty door lock actuators, corroded grounds.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (causing steering wander), worn rear shock mounts, subframe cracking (rear subframe mounting points).
Common Problems Fuel System:
Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pump, deteriorating fuel lines.