First BMW and first question...basic maintenance - BMW Forum

frenchtoast · 02-11-2007, 10:22 PM

I just brought home what I believe to be a very well kept 1997 328i sedan with 100K km (60K miles). It was so nice that I bought it even though it is an automatic. I'm willing to give the auto a shot... we'll see how it goes.
My question is about basic maintenance - I want to give it a good once over and would like suggestions on spark plugs, air filters (should i look at a cold air intake) and any other valuable suggestions from people who know more than I (pretty much everyone). Thanks.

DesmoBob · 02-12-2007, 02:50 AM

plugs: some people will swear by bosch. personally i went back to ngk after bogging with bosch.
intake: sorry to say but with obd2/auto you won't notice much gains other than sound.

misc threads:

http://www.bimmerwerkz.com/forum/3-s...nks-40689.html

http://www.bimmerwerkz.com/forum/gen...tions-971.html

common problems:
http://www.bimmerwerkz.com/forum/mai...blems-601.html

frenchtoast · 02-12-2007, 05:17 PM

Thanks for the advice. I was going to get the Bosch +4 platinums and will certainly have a look at the NGK's.
What about forking out $70 for a K&N filter as opposed to some of the cheaper ones? Any input?

Mookie · 02-12-2007, 07:36 PM

Take a look at this site, lots of great write ups on mainenance topics. The parent site is an excellent source for parts as well:

Pelican Parts - BMW Technical Articles

Another forum site to search through. There are very few new questions, use the search function & be prepared to read quite bit:

3 Series (E36) - Bimmerforums - The Ultimate BMW Forum