Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, intake and exhaust systems, cylinder head, engine block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system
Engine Management:
Engine control unit (DME - Digital Motor Electronics), fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting
Transmission Mechanical:
Automatic transmission (GM 4L30-E) and manual transmission (Getrag S5D 250G) overhaul, component replacement, torque converter, clutch, gearbox
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles, CV joints
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering gear, power steering system, steering column
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), horn, wipers, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, central locking system, fuses and relays
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, blower motor, heater core, evaporator core, refrigerant system, climate control module
Body Electrical:
Instrumentation, dashboard, warning lights, airbags, seatbelts, exterior mirrors, interior lighting, audio system wiring
Body And Interior:
Door mechanisms, window regulators, hood and trunk latches, interior trim panels, seats, headliner, carpeting
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and replacement, seatbelt pre-tensioners
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, air filter replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for all major systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, reading and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Repair And Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all vehicle systems
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine overhaul procedures, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequence
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed steps for the disassembly and reassembly of both automatic and manual transmissions
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing of electrical circuits, component testing, troubleshooting wiring harness issues, using diagnostic tools
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of bushings, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, steering rack, and power steering pump
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding the brake system, ABS/DSC component testing
Climate Control Repair:
Refrigerant system service (with proper EPA certification), heater core and evaporator core replacement, blower motor replacement
Bodywork And Interior Trim:
Removal and installation of body panels, interior trim pieces, door handles, window regulators
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-to-cause correlation, and specific diagnostic tool usage
Component Level Detail:
Includes detailed diagrams and specifications for individual component overhaul and testing
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Often indicated by the 'Condition Based Service' (CBS) system or by mileage. Refer to manual for specific interval for the 1998 model year.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles (100,000 km). Refer to manual for specific type and interval.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km). Use BMW coolant.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (API SJ or higher, ACEA A3 or equivalent). Refer to manual for specific BMW approval.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (FMVSS 116 DOT 4)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks prone to cracking, water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (FCABs), ball joints, and tie rods are common wear items. Rear subframe bushings can degrade.
Electrical:
PIE (Power Integrated Electronics) module failures, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoids/seals, ABS/DSC sensor failures, headlight leveling system issues.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failure, clogged fuel injectors.
Interior:
Pixelation on the instrument cluster display (LCD), headliner sagging, glove box latch failures.