New bimmer need help! - BMW Forum

topofyourgas · 05-31-2011, 12:09 AM

I just got a new (to me) 99 bmw 328i E46. Its my first bmw and needless to say I'm in love. Unfortunately I've had some issues with it and I need some advice.

1. Car has rough idle and I heard someone say it might be maf sensor? But I haven't yet replaced the fuel filter or spark plugs/wires so maybe that could be it?

2. From 1st to 2nd gear it has a forceful jerk.

3. For a while after driving a bit, the engine, acs, and oil light would all come one and the car would shudder and almost stop. But everytime It would happen I would try to take it to get the codes read and it would stop. But last time I did the guy supposedly fixed some vacuum leaks, replaced the air boot, and wiped the codes and it hasn't done it since.

4. When I turn the car off, theres no beep or flash to notify that it has locked, THEN the fan comes on really loudly for 10 seconds??

5. I have windshield cleaner fluid but it doesnt come out.

6. I have a hole in my condenser so I got a replacement but evidently I need to replace the dryer too?? If so I cant find one.

Okay I know its a lot, and most of you are probably laughing at how trivial this might be for you, but I'm not a gear head or a car guy so you using flowery terminology isn't going to help me. But If you can give me a good idea on what to do for any of these issues (without saying go to a dealer, ive heard that enough) it would be much appreciated!

Thanks!

yammahamma · 05-31-2011, 02:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by topofyourgas

1. Car has rough idle and I heard someone say it might be maf sensor? But I haven't yet replaced the fuel filter or spark plugs/wires so maybe that could be it?

3. For a while after driving a bit, the engine, acs, and oil light would all come one and the car would shudder and almost stop. But everytime It would happen I would try to take it to get the codes read and it would stop. But last time I did the guy supposedly fixed some vacuum leaks, replaced the air boot, and wiped the codes and it hasn't done it since.

I would give it a tune up...plugs, filters, etc. I would maybe try cleaning the MAF...because I think a new one is around $300.

Even if the check engine light is off, it should still store a code that autozone can read for you.

Sorry, that's all the help I can be...

Jack Dabsy · 05-31-2011, 02:46 PM

I think it maybe running too rich... Dodgy injectors, air leak (Causing extra fuelling), dirty Throttle body, fuel pump pressure... This list carries on...
All said, you should get those codes as it could even be the ECU being awkward!!!
DAZ

topofyourgas · 05-31-2011, 06:09 PM

Okay so I should:

1. Check the codes at autozone (they said if the lights aren't on they cant read it

)

2. Change the plugs/wires/filters/oil

3. Clean the throttle body/MAF (can anyone point me to a diy?)

I also am not getting very good gas mileage, could 'running too rich' cause that?

matty427 · 05-31-2011, 07:14 PM

I would try to find a private garage that specializes in BMW's and get an estimate of what it would cost to bring everything up to spec. I don't know where you live but there are usually a few of these guys around everywhere. Ask other BMW owners if they can recommend someone. Your mechanical experience sounds a bit limited. Maybe try a couple of things that you think you can manage yourself, and let the pro's do the rest. The E46 is a great car and you'll get plenty of enjoyment owning and driving it.