Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, valve train, timing chain, oil pump, cooling system, lubrication system
Engine Electrical:
Engine control unit (ECU), ignition system, fuel injection, starting system, charging system, sensors, actuators
Transmission Drivetrain:
All-wheel drive (xDrive) system, transfer case, differentials (front and rear), driveshafts, CV joints
Transmission Automatic:
GM 5L40-E automatic transmission, valve body, torque converter, electronic controls, fluid specifications
Transmission Manual:
Getrag 6-speed manual transmission (e.g., GS6-37BZ), clutch system, shift mechanism, fluid specifications
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, brake caliper service, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (McPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, power steering system, steering rack, wheel alignment
Body Chassis:
Body construction, chassis components, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, exterior trim, interior trim, sound deadening
Electrical System:
Battery, starter, alternator, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM), comfort systems
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, heater core, blower motor, climate control module
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP)
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, cabin filter replacement
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Fault code retrieval and interpretation, troubleshooting flowcharts, component testing procedures, electrical diagnostics
Repair Rebuild:
Engine component replacement (e.g., water pump, thermostat, belts), transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, driveshaft repair
Installation Replacement:
Component replacement (e.g., starter, alternator, fuel pump), sensor replacement, module replacement
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific BMW special tools required for various procedures
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners across all vehicle systems
Depth:
Complete factory level detail, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and component overhaul
Oil Change:
BMW recommends inspection every 10,000 miles or 12 months, with oil changes typically based on sensor readings (Condition Based Service - CBS), but generally around 15,000 miles/1 year for synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 100,000 miles for the M54 engine (check manual for specific intervals).
Coolant Flush:
BMW recommends coolant replacement typically every 4 years or 60,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.5 Liters) with filter change.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 US quarts (9.0 Liters) for a dry fill (check manual for specific pan drop/fill quantity).
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 1.5 US quarts (1.4 Liters).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.9 US quarts (7.5 Liters).
Common Engine Issues:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket (due to age and brittle gaskets), VANOS solenoid failure, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging leading to rough idle and oil consumption.
Common Cooling System Issues:
Plastic coolant expansion tank cracking, thermostat housing leaks, water pump failure (often plastic impeller).
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and rear shock mounts leading to steering play and clunking noises.
Common Electrical Issues:
ABS/DSC sensor failures, headlight ballast issues, water ingress into the ECU connector, window regulator failures.
Common AWD Issues:
Transfer case actuator or motor failure, differential seals leaking.
