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BMW 3-Series

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Q: the onboard computer on my 2000 bmw 3 series just shows the time?
the onboard computer on my 2000 bmw 3 series just shows the time,i’ve checked the fuses in the glovebox and everything is ok.any ideas?

A: If it used to show other details and now doesn’t, it needs to go to a dealer or a specialist.

I hope that helps,

Andy

Q: BMW 3 series?
Which one is better, 318i or 325i or 328i (E 36 model ) which is produced in the middle of 90’s. Can someone tell me the differs among that 3 ‘ Ultimate Driving Machine ‘. Which one give more trouble after 10years old (produced before 1997).

A: which is better?…. hmmm, well, the body is all the same for all of those.Only the engine/transmission differ. But now you gotta ask yourself, do I want fuel economy or, do i want more power, do I want a sedan, do I want a coupe? The most reliable of those is a six cylinder, so I would choose the 325 or the 328. So, being a 5 series owner for many years, I would recommend you get the biggest one, the 328i. Its a fantastic engine, plus the 328i has more options for the interior. the 2.8 straight six, provides the perfect combination of power and economy and reliability. I have a 528i at the moment and the power is perfect for my needs. So, I would recommend you get a 1997 328i coupe, they are good cars. Good luck ;)

Q: How reliable is the automatic transmission for the E46 3 series BMW?
I’m looking at a few 2001 through 2003 3 series and I heard the auto transmission for these cars (this particular generation) is troublesome. Is this true? Should I stick to the MT?

Also, is the 2001 more prone to problems compared to the rest of the production years for the E46?

A: Go check out the forums in www.roadfly.org

Yes, the AT in the early E46 are prone to failure as early as 75,000miles for some, or if you’re luckier (like me), at 115,000miles (if you can even call it lucky!)

The problem is BMW’s claimed “lifetime fill” transmission fluid.

Nothing is lifetime… so in the end, the transmission dies due to lack of fluid change.

My transmission died on my 2000 323ci and it was of course out of warranty. I however printed all the cases I found online (mainly from roadfly), fedexed to their HQ, and they finally agreed to pay about half the total costs. I still needed to fork out about $2k in the end.

The common symptom is “One day, I suddenly lost reverse gear without warning! I shift into reverse, the car acts as if it is in neutral – except that the reverse lights are on”.

Either stick with a MT car or go for a low mileage car with AT, then quickly do a fluid change.

bavauto.com has everything you need for the procedure. Call them for advice.

Q: What model of BMW 3-series AWD doesn’t have full time AWD?
It seems like they all have full time. Is there any models that can be turned into rear drive from full time AWD, or something like that. I’m interesting in 3-series BMW from 2001 to 2005. Thank you!!!!!!!!!

A: Quite simply none of them. All BMW’s with AWD, X-series included employ full time all wheel drive hence the name. However, BMW x-drive as they call their system is biased toward the rear wheels in normal driving conditions (62% rear torque bias for the model you are interested in).

Also, when you are considering an all wheel drive three series between 2001 and 2005 be sure to choose one produced after March ‘01 or with the sport package. After March all 3 series came standard with the sport suspension. They changed this for a reason! The regular one was way too soft.

Q: Would a Tremec T56 Transmission fit on a 3 series bmw?
I found that this is the perfect transmission combo for the chevy 350 crate engine im looking into but i wanted to know if anyone has an idea if it would even fit into a 3 series bmw. thanks alot.

A: The bell housing will not be compatible, so it will not readily fit without and adapter plate and/or much more work.

Q: What car would be better for a teenage girl? BMW 3 series or an Audi A4?
My daughter is about to turn 17 and she wants a new car. She doesn’t like the one she has now. So, we are debating between getting her a 3-series BMW (328i perhaps) or a Audi A4. We will probably get a used 2007-2008. What do you think would be better?
I’m not going to make her buy her own car! That is ridiculous!
So just answer the question… this is the car section not parenting section :)

A: You should also consider that such a car may be expensive to insure. Check your insurance rates before buying one, for example here – carinsurance.yoll.net

Q: is it a good time to buy a bmw 3 series right now?
I want to get the used bmw 3 series. Since they are making a new model in 2012, is the E90 bmw going to be a lot cheaper or about the same price. If i wait can i get the e90 bmw for cheaper or is it still going to be about the same price.

A: You should also consider that such a car may be expensive to insure. Check your insurance rates before buying one, for example here – carquotes.fateback.com

Q: Is the Bmw 3-series the most popular car in the UK?
I was coming back home from work and I saw 20 Bmw 3-series vehicles all within 30 mins. This has left me a bit confused, I always thought the Ford Mondeo and Vectra were the most popular cars in the Uk. Is the 3-series the big dog in the UK car sales these days?

A: it is not that it is the big dog it is just cost efficient

Q: Advice on which used car to buy? Perhaps a bmw 3 series?
I am 19 and have been driving for a year and a half, looking to buy a new car. I have about 6K to spend. I am seriously thinking about bmw 3 series but need some advice? I have also seen a few mercedes CLK or CDI that i like but the insurance is waaay too much that i would like to pay, any suggestions on cars going along the bmw and merc? Thanks
Thanks for your comments. Any suggestions on what cars i should be looking at?

A: Only 6K to spend and worrying about insurance. I hate to be the voice of reason but can you really afford a BMW or Merc? The repairs on such cars are not cheap and 6k is not going to get you one that doesn’t need anything.

Let’s use the 840/850 mentioned as an example. The radiator should be replaced every five or so years. If it cracks (plastic tanks) and the level gets low it can develop an air lock when you add water. The car overheats and you are looking at a 6k repair. Yes, you can buy an 840/850 for 6k, if you want one that somebody couldn’t afford to fix.

Q: What cars are similar to/competitors with the BMW 3 series?
I’m currently looking into a 3 series coupe, and they seem pretty awesome in every aspect. But maybe there’s something else out there that’s a bit better in some aspects. I see so many 3 series out there, and for good reason, since they are solid cars, but I want one you don’t see too often.
Isn’t the Infiniti G35 coupe also up there?

A: I would definitely test drive the new Infiniti G37. The G35 was nice, but the G37 is nicer still. Sticking to coupes – I would also look at the RX8, and the new Audi A5 (not sure if it’s available yet).

And the BMW 1 series will be around soon – similar performance, but smaller and cheaper, should be a great deal (for a BMW).

As for non-coupes, the new C Class, the Lexus IS, Audi A4

Personally, I’d go for the G37

Q: What do I need to replace to when the turn signal light works intermittently for BMW 3 series?
The turn signal light stops working every now and then. I hear the fast tempo ticking and the indicator in the front panel lights up. Every now and then it works again. I know that means it’s not the light bulb. Does anyone know what needs to be replaced? I have a 2002 3-series.

A: The turn signal has a flasher switch in the fuse box. Check your owners manual for name and location. these are not repairable, but are easily replaced. You can get one at any auto parts store.

Q: Would the 3 series BMW be a good second car?
I recently bought the 03 VOLVO S60 2.4 non turbo and around the end of the year I would like to buy a 2002-2003 BMW 325i or possibly the 330i. Should I choose it as my second car later on during the year?

A: You have a Volvo and want a BMW for a second car. Well, You will end up driving the Volvo for a second car but the 325i and 330i both are very fun cars, very well built, reliable and comfortable. Definitely a good choice, I’d say go for it!

Q: What are things that can go wrong with a 2000 3 series bmw over 130k miles?
Would appreciate real answers from people who actually own and drive bmw’s. I need an idea on what maintenance costs might be, assuming a car like this has been well maintained thus far. Thanks.

A: A well kept German car usually only needs oil changes, brake pads, and occasionally new tires. IF you buy this car, BE SMART and do ALL the scheduled maintenance listed in the owner’s manual. Have the engine professionally de-sludged, and switch it over to ELF (Total) oil from France, or 0w-40 Mobil One. Everyone I know of with a BMW swears by the benfits of using the ELF oil. It lasts for a year before changing. Brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid should all be changed every 50,000 miles using ONLY genuine German products. The brake fluid is a synthetic vegetable oil, NOT compatible with stuff found at the local Napa store. READ about trans maintenance if this is an automatic. Every 100,000 miles, a new filter and gasket should be installed, but once again, ONLY GENUINE BMW trans fluid may be used!! You can look forward to another 130,000 miles of happy driving, and even more!! DO yourself a favor and read your manual 3-4 times, whenever you get bored. You will learn a LOT!!

Q: How much would a regular oil change cost on a 2001 BMW 3 series?
I want to buy a BMW but is the oil change expensive? Ineed answers by tonight October 3,2007!!

Thanks, Cayenneman93

A: about $200 i think

Q: What is the best colour to order the new 3 series bmw hard top convertible?
The one i have now is in gold which i have had since new.

A: I think they look good in white, got to keep it clean though ! Enjoy your “noo-mo’ah” as they say in Tunbridge Wells.

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