FAQ

Check frequently asked questions about Bmw

Open Question: Why don't all cars look like supercars?

Surely it wouldn't be that much more expensive to produce body panels and body styling similar to supercars. People wouldn't care if they had 2 litre engines. It would sure make the streets look chilly. So why don't every cars look like supercars instead of mass produced rubbish? Even BMW's and and Mercedes' look crap. What is the reason for mainstream utilitarianism and mediocrity? I meant the BMW looks like crap when compared to beautiful examples of motoring architecture that have real class. Not some toy for the lower middle classes to make themselves feel good about themselves, but which are still ultimately crap when COMPARED to supercars.

4 Sep 2010, 8:56 am | click here to view more

Open Question: Quick car survey (1 question)?

BMW, Audi, Mercedes, or Lexus? Which one and why?

4 Sep 2010, 8:35 am | click here to view more

Open Question: I have a BMW 2006 325i and I had a new alternator installed but it doesn't start unless u jump start it?

Could it be the battery? When I jump start it there is no indicator showing my battery is bad and it still says my alternator is bad...so I don't know what's going on here

4 Sep 2010, 7:27 am | click here to view more

Open Question: im worried that i dont have enough to offer? 10 pts?

hey! im a 21 year old guy. what would you think about a girl like this: she is really pretty, and really nice. she is fun and glad, and she comes from a wealthy family. she just got asked by a university to do Honours in english literature because of her excellent results. we are just really getting to know each other- but do you think i can offer her anything? she has driven a BMW since she was 18. she invited me over to her home next week for home made pizza, mario on nintendo and tennis. i dont know what to do

4 Sep 2010, 3:04 am | click here to view more

Open Question: how do i syphon my 1993 bmw e36 318i?

i have a bmw 318i & i have heaps of petrol in it & im wanting to drain a lot of it out for another car i have, i can syphon well but for some reason i cant receive to it in the bmw & also cant locate the tank either lol.

4 Sep 2010, 2:03 am | click here to view more

Open Question: Don't want to live a materialistic life?

I want to live simply. I live with my mom who thinks buying things means adore. She gave me her BMW and though I am thankful to have a car, I really don't look the big deal in a car that is labeled "expensive." To me a car is a car. How do I cope with being thankful but yet deeply feeling her giving this to me only aids in materialism and not my goal of simple living?

4 Sep 2010, 1:45 am | click here to view more

Open Question: What is the difference between a BMW 735I and a BMW 735IL?

I'm not stupid I'm just VERY unfamiliar with this car.

4 Sep 2010, 1:08 am | click here to view more

Open Question: Which to buy: a BMW M5 08 vs 550i 09?

I have an opportunity to buy either a 2008 M5 (11,500 Miles) or a 2009 550i (1,200 Miles - demo car). Both cars are fully loaded (the M is even an Individual config). I am more inclined for the M for the experience, but here is what is making me pause: - warranty: 1 more year balance on the 550i - miles: yes less than 12K is good, but still less than 2K is better - SMG smoothness: a lot of debate out there about the SMG, but one guy claims it is just about learning how to use the throttle during shifts Either car, I will sell when the warranty ends, as I don't intend to pay for maintenance. The price for both is equal & it's USD 67.5K (not in the US). So, any recommendations on which AND why? Prefer something objective, like resale values, TOC... rather than just "it's a great ride"

4 Sep 2010, 12:07 am | click here to view more

Open Question: Where can i find ENGLISH LYRICS of cherniy bumer?(black bmw)?

I heard the tune, but i don't know russian; some english lyrics for this tune would be great. Thx.

4 Sep 2010, 11:41 am | click here to view more

Open Question: My daughter is interested in buying an old, used mustang, should I allow her?

My daughter is 16 and has her license for about 6 months. We allowed her to share the BMW x5 with me and my wife but it has become a hassle and we really are urging her to buy her possess car. Although she is hesitant about it, she found an old 1970 Ford Mustang that she likes. Its manual, which she knows how to steer and she has shown an appreciation for manual cars. For the 6 months she's driven, she's been a responsible driver, no car crashes, no driving other people (just her two family friends that she sometimes give rides to if they desperately need one) and has stayed on curfew. She also has a 4.3. My question is, should I allow her to buy this car? My first answer was no, mustangs are quick and dangerous and are considered a race car. I also heard in conditions dealing with rain, you have to be an extremely careful driver. But after hearing her out I realized my daughter would never go quick since when she was younger she got into a car accident with her cousins when another person was speeding and has injured her ankle for the relax of her life. Also, we checked out the car and the dealer said since it's an older version it can't go to optimum speed and does not have the power of the new cars.. Anyways, whats your opinion? I'd like to say yes especially since she'd be keeping the car to go to college in Los Angeles in two years and the car seems appropriate for the area and such..

3 Sep 2010, 9:51 am | click here to view more

Open Question: What things should I do for a tune up on my 1987 bmw 325?

I just got it and want to make sure that the car is up to shape. I would like it if you could list everything that I could do to check from changing the oil to changing the brakes to checking the spark plugs and so on and so on. This is my first car so I don't really have much of an idea what to do but am willing to learn.

3 Sep 2010, 9:39 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: BMW 2001 3.30i Limp Mode Problem?

Hi every, Been having recurring problems with my 2001 3.30i. The problem started a few months ago when the car went into limp mode for the first time and the check engine light went on. I had the tranny fluid changed and it got the car our of limp mode and working. However, every so often the car would go into limp mode in cease and go traffic OR sudden stops (like when someone cuts you off). I found that turning off the car a few minutes and turning it back on would clear the (!). However, if it occurs too often back to back it made the check engine light go on and I would not be able to receive it out of the mode. I took it to a store who recommended they rebuild the transmission. They had it one week, returned it, and 5 minutes into driving it it went into limp mode again. I was able to clear it but took it back to the store as the problem was clearly not fixed. Mechanic said he had replaced every the clutches but would look at it again. I got it back a week later and the mechanic said he replaced "valves" (Im not sure which valves) and the car seemed to feel much better as far as smooth gear changes, however, when I hit cease and go traffic,the car went into limp mode AGAIN. I've read that it could be the gear selector switch (not sure what it is exactly) and read other info that the car goes into limp mode in cease/go traffic because the thermometer isnt working properly so the oil heats up? Does anybody know any other options it could be or that I could suggest to the mechanic? Need to receive this fixed soon without having my car in the store for weeks at a time. Thanks so much everyone!

3 Sep 2010, 9:35 am | click here to view more

Open Question: how much would it be to fix this m3?

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=u&car_id=280674264&dealer_id=595367&car_year=2008&rdm=1283570088223&lastStartYear=1981&num_records=100&model=M3&systime=&make2=&highlightFirstMakeModel=&start_year=2008&engine=&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&awsp=untrue&search_type=both&distance=0&marketZipError=untrue&search_lang=en&showZipError=y&sownerid=100008212&make=BMW&color=&keywords_display=&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=&steer=&default_sort=newsortbyprice_DESC&seller_type=d&position=top&position=top&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceASC&address=10710&advanced=&end_year=2011&transmission=&doors=&max_price=45000&cardist=1107&standard=untrue left and right and front damage. I'm thinking it shouldn't be more than 5000- 6000 dollars. also please dont start saying bad stuff about bmw. just a serious estimate on how much it would cost. thanks in advance

3 Sep 2010, 9:21 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: 2008 BMW Z4 STEPTRONIC?

has anyone has problems with this car/ I feel I got a lemon... Melbourne,Australia maybe your right...Im could be out of my depth with this car...I have a saab and honda past..

3 Sep 2010, 8:59 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: 2008 BMW Z4 ...how much should I be asking?

2008 BMW Z4 STEPTRONIC Kilometres -32,000 Interior Colour- Dark Blue Colour -Titanium Silver Transmission- 6 speed Semi-Automatic Body -2 door 2 seat ROADSTER Melbourne Australia thanx D.. Al I will check that out xxx

3 Sep 2010, 8:57 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: where can i buy bmw windshield washer fluid?

id like to buy a bottle of the fluid that came with my car but i hav no idea where to buy it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S818xxy-X60

3 Sep 2010, 8:51 pm | click here to view more

Voting Question: Poll: do you prefer a BMW or Mercedes Benz?

Please do not star this question. Thanks.

3 Sep 2010, 8:39 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Can I do Apprenticeship and go to College at the same time?

I want to do A levels at college but I also want to do an apprenticeship at a car dealership like BMW or Audi. Would I be able to go to both college and the apprenticeship?

3 Sep 2010, 8:38 am | click here to view more

Open Question: 06 BMW 325Cic master window switch lowers all windows but does not raise front windows.?

Just changed battery and had to replace fuse 43 to keep clock set.

3 Sep 2010, 8:22 am | click here to view more

Open Question: Is it possible to place the hood of a 2009 BMW 328i onto my 2006 BMW 325i sedan? Is there an upgrade?

So this is what I want to do. I have a 2006 BMW 325i and I want to make it look a little more up to date. I want to replace the front hood of my 06 325i (Example of my 3-series hood) http://countryclubautos.motorphotos.net/popupviewer.aspx?iid=2804820&pID=28646407 (Example of 09 3 series Hood) http://webiol.homenetinc.com/dealers/5815/12359/9A171974(2).jpg Can the Headlights be changed as well, from the yellow amber corner headlights on the 06 to the clear amber lights on the 09? THANKS GUYS, YOU NO MORE THEN ME! =)

3 Sep 2010, 8:21 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: bmw car question my speedo and rev counter not working?

my 1999 523i bmw my speedo clock and rev counter not working i changed the insrument cluster but still the same wat else wud cause this

3 Sep 2010, 7:30 am | click here to view more

Open Question: Is there a BMW mechanic out there......i hope so?

2004 BMW X3 .// HOW DO I RESET THE COMPUTER AFTER AN OIL CHANGE ? THANK YOU

3 Sep 2010, 7:11 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: When is the car consider a loss by car insurance?

I got rear ended about 10 days ago. Progressive is there insurance, they total her car. The first estimate they did on my car was like $2,000 I have a 2004 Bmw 530i..I took it to a reputable bmw repair store and they did the tear down and now the adjuster is telling me its gonna be around 12,000 to repair, I owe 18,000 and blue book value is probably even less. I don't want to be driving around a car with that much extensive repair that's ridiculous. My car will never be the same! What should I do? Any ideas? I have a attorney but he says he dosn't deal with the property damage part..which I think is stupid too since I'm not supposed to talk to this claim adjusters..but how do I receive this handle? I want my car to be total..I dont want to be driving a car that is worth $15,000 before the accident with $12,000 in repairs..it dosnt make sense! Would you feel safe to steer a car with $12,000 in car repairs? I would rather be upside down and pay for the difference on my loan then steer a car that might be unsafe even if it is repaired. The other person was a 100% at fault. And progressive and the repair store came up with the 12,000 repair. And I can't find anything on Californias threshold total car loss laws!

3 Sep 2010, 6:54 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: My boyfriend loves cars and i want to get him a model of a car...?

he loves the bmw m3... in the dark blue color ... which company makes a model of it down to every detail?

3 Sep 2010, 6:36 am | click here to view more

Open Question: Why do so many black men and women drive Mercedes Benzs, Jaguars, BMW's, Maserati's , and Range Rovers?

Especially in the Suburbs! It's mostly blacks driving expensive foreign cars in Atlanta.

3 Sep 2010, 6:24 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: Probability Combinations Question - Urgent!?

The 2007 BMW 355i Coupe is offered with a choice of 14 exterior colors (11 metallic and 3 standard), 5 interior colors, and 4 trims. How many combinations involving color and trim are available for the model? Thanks for any help you may have!

3 Sep 2010, 6:23 am | click here to view more

Open Question: should i get a new acura tsx or 2009 used 328i bmw with about 14,000 miles on it?

Both are about 30,000 dollars which do you think I should receive?? If none of thesr tell me a ggood car tats about 30,000

3 Sep 2010, 4:56 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: Transmission ( Auto) Stuck in 3rd gear, right after getting transmission serviced? HELP?

Hi, I currently possess a 1999 BMW 540i Automatic. Well about a month ago I checked my transmission fluid, and the color was Pitch black, like sludge. So I called a Service place and they told me I needed to receive my transmission drained and refilled, and need a new filter more than likely. So i Took it to this European car place here in Atlanta, they Did the Full transmission service for 475. They had the car for 2 days, I got it back, the first day i got it back it was leaking Antifreeze everywhere, So i took it back, they said it was a busted hose, charged me 200 Dollars to fix the heater core hose. Then, Less then a week later, Today actually, I'm leaving the Mall, and i'm on the interstate, and my car is stuck in 3rd gear. Reason I know is i Shafted into sports mode, Nothing adjusted, then shifted into 3rd, nothing happens, second, it down shifts. What is the deal here? I never had this problem before taking it in. I drove up to the Service place, and the manager/Owner said they were " really Busy" And to call him in the morning? I asked him if it's safe to even steer the car? He said he didn't know. WTF??? How should I take care of this? I mean they charged me 200 to replace a damn hose, now the very transmission they serviced, is locked in 3rd gear. And it's nearly Impossible to steer around. What should I do? I've owned this car since it had 70,000 Miles on it, never once had a single problem.

3 Sep 2010, 4:18 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: BMW 528i vs 328i which is faster?

im looking at buying a new BMW 528i or 328i ive already decided so dont try to tell me to buy anything else. But im looking for some specs, which one is faster? which one handles better? which one performs better? which one has better gas mileage? etc.. just some general stuff. Thanks.

3 Sep 2010, 4:04 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: what are considered the bmw of boats?

what make of boats are the good ones? bayliners?

3 Sep 2010, 3:45 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: Which car should i get?

White 2011 toyota tundra or White 2011 BMW 3 series coupe Does the tundra have good breaks like the BMW does? Which is safer? i adore both..... but my choice will be with the safest one.

3 Sep 2010, 2:15 am | click here to view more

Open Question: aftermarket rims for my e36?

I have a bmw 1994 325ic and i want to replace the aftermarket racing dynamic rims that i have. im looking for something that is good quality but isn't to expensive either and I have no idea which places to look at. any help is appreciated. And if possible im looking for the middle caps for my rims but am having a difficult time finding them.

3 Sep 2010, 1:48 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: BMW 318ci Se 2004 front offside wiper arm problem, please help.?

I have a 2004 BMW 318ci SE with the BMW Bosch spoiler wipers on; the ones that came as standard. When the bought the car, 2 months ago, I noticed that the offside front wiper arm, the drivers side, has a problem where on the upstroke of the wiper it would goes too far and at high speed, hits the side of the windscreen making a really unusual noise which is driving me crazy! The passenger wiper arm seems fine and parks where it should. One thing that I did notice when I got the car was that the passenger wiper sat too high but after I loosened it off of the spindle and moved it down a few splines it was fine. Also when you lift the drivers side arm off the window, it wiggles up and down about 2-3 inches each way. People are telling me it is the whole motor and linkage but I'm not totally convinced as I look at 1999 and even 2000 models and theirs seems to look fine. And when I look them move they don't hit the side! So something must be wrong. every I want to know is if there is some way I can solve this without having to fork out for a new motor. Many Regards.

3 Sep 2010, 1:31 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: Girls: How important is a guys car?

Do you care if it is a Honda, BMW, Pick up truck etc?

3 Sep 2010, 11:43 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: My BMW 316i's bonnet is stuck and I need to open it to get to the engine?

I have tried to tug the cable from inside the car, it seems the cable is still attached, however when I tug it nothing is happening. The problem is the initial opening of the bonnet (when it pops up). I have tried to open it from below the car but I can only receive to the latch you use once you have popped open the bonnet in the first place so I guess the problem is the initial release. Any idea's on how to receive it to open?? Please help i'm really stumped, also brute force doesnt work even with 3 men!

3 Sep 2010, 11:39 am | click here to view more

Open Question: BMW Limp Mode Problem?

Hi every, Been having recurring problems with my 2001 3.30i. The problem started a few months ago when the car went into limp mode for the first time and the check engine light went on. I had the tranny fluid changed and it got the car our of limp mode and working. However, every so often the car would go into limp mode in cease and go traffic OR sudden stops (like when someone cuts you off). I found that turning off the car a few minutes and turning it back on would clear the (!). However, if it occurs too often back to back it made the check engine light go on and I would not be able to receive it out of the mode. I took it to a store who recommended they rebuild the transmission. They had it one week, returned it, and 5 minutes into driving it it went into limp mode again. I was able to clear it but took it back to the store as the problem was clearly not fixed. Mechanic said he had replaced every the clutches but would look at it again. I got it back a week later and the mechanic said he replaced "valves" (Im not sure which valves) and the car seemed to feel much better as far as smooth gear changes, however, when I hit cease and go traffic,the car went into limp mode AGAIN. I've read that it could be the gear selector switch (not sure what it is exactly) and read other info that the car goes into limp mode in cease/go traffic because the thermometer isnt working properly so the oil heats up? Does anybody know any other options it could be or that I could suggest to the mechanic? Need to receive this fixed soon without having my car in the store for weeks at a time. Thanks so much everyone!

3 Sep 2010, 11:28 am | click here to view more

Open Question: Mercedes Benz or BMW? & What model?

I always ask this question when it comes to cars. I guess because they are both German cars. Just let me know which make and model you would pick. I personally pick Mercedes and would want to possess a 2010 SL65 AMG.

3 Sep 2010, 10:51 am | click here to view more

Open Question: I'm looking for a 2 seater car such as:Audi TT,Mazda Miata, BMW Z. What other cars are 2 seater and powerful?

I'm really short and want a really short car. I'm looking on car Trader and want to know what other cars I can explore. I also like Nissan Z but it might be too long for me. Thanks in advance!

3 Sep 2010, 10:41 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: what to do about leather car?

My mom gave me her BMW, and it has leather seats, since she does not buy anything that does not have leather. I am vegan and I feel bad for having to steer this car. When I told her I am going to use the bus which is extremely far, she told me HELL NO. So now I have this car, living below her roof, I don't even know what to do. My dad told me her car is paid off, if I try to receive another downgraded one it would be silly. He is not going to help me :(

3 Sep 2010, 10:16 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: Car accident situation-who's fault is it? Possibilities?

Example: An 89 year old driver (drives a BMW) says that he went on a yellow light to make a LEFT turn, while a 50 year old driver (drives a HONDA) perpendicular to him is making a LEFT also on a green light. How is that possible? Who is to blame, is a middle aged man trying to receive money out of a supposedly "wealthy" person? Is the 89 year old too old to steer and his reflexes were too slow? What are the possibilities of this situation?

2 Sep 2010, 9:53 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: Trunk lock installation/removal near LA?

I possess a 1989 BMW its an iX and I need to install a new trunk lock cylinder on it. Does anyone know a locksmith that does removal and installation of a trunk lock cylinder? If you do please give me the name, number and price. Thank you.

2 Sep 2010, 8:46 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: what should be my first car?

i like old school cars like the ford capri and my favourite BMW E28 M5 i have a budget of around £8,000 and i need to take insurance in account. it would be great if you could name some good old school cars i could receive thanks

2 Sep 2010, 5:23 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: Would an Eagle Talon TSI motor fit in a BMW?

I really like the power and fuel economy of the eagle talon TSI motor with the turbo. The power hits super difficult and because it's a four cylinder, it doesn't gussle gas quite as bad as a v8.. Would a Talon motor fit with every of the parts needed to make it seriously quick?

2 Sep 2010, 5:09 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: BMW Help with aftermarket radio on e46 2001 325i?

I want to replace the radio unit that originally came with the 2001 325i with an aftermarket one that supports aux in and ipod integration. I'm currently looking at the pioneer 3200ub since it has both as well as support for wired remotes(the controls from my wheel). However I'm not sure what I should be aware of when looking for radio units/mp3/cd reciever(I don't even know what these are called). The BMW radio unit looks like it is larger than every the aftermarket ones, so do I need a specific faceplate to cover up the extra space. If so which one(link?). Also do I need any cable converters since one forum I saw said I would? Thanks PS. The reason I want to do this, is because after extensive searching online, I discovered that 325i models earlier than 2002, that are NOT pre-wired for XM Radio, cannot be simply given an aux input. The quality of my belking fm transmitter isn't that good, so I want an aux input, and decided a new unit would be nice. Thanks in advance. (10 points will be given)

2 Sep 2010, 3:55 pm | click here to view more

Open Question: Main Dealer quote (UK). Is this reasonable?

I took my 04 318iSE for an inspection 1 service at the main dealer. Afterwards I was told that oil was leaking from the sump and the front control arm brackets had split. I've been quoted £330 to replace the sump gasket (mainly labour charges, I think it's a long job) and £220 to replace the control arm brackets. Does this sound reasonable? I'm a mechanical imbecile myself, I don't know of any independant BMW specialists close me (Peterborough), and I don't fancy leaving it to a bog standard garage if I'm only going to keep £70/80 to receive both things done.

2 Sep 2010, 3:34 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: 2004 Acura TL, TSX, or 325ci?

Should I receive a 2004 acura tl, tsx with navigation, or a BMW 325ci coupe? Which would I look better in? And no I'm not getting new my parents offered but I don't want them wasting extra money when I'm fine with an older one. Besides.. I'm only 16!

2 Sep 2010, 10:56 pm | click here to view more



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