E46 330i-what to do before MP expires?

[///M Individual]

Hi guys. So our 2004 330i 5spd automatic's motorplan is about to expire end of April. Mileage is 96000kms. What stuff should we have checked out/replaced before it does? We getting the transmission fluid flushed and changed as we've heard that the auto box is not the strongest. Also the coolant expansion tank was replaced. And some regulator thingy for the aircon. What are the other parts that may pack up or become problematic as we approach higher mileage? Plan on keeping the car for a long time so any help will be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[P1000]

Waterpump + control arms. Brake pads + discs maybe? Other than that she should be solid.

 

[XMAX]

Whilst youre at it get the transmission flushed.

Ive heared that the steptronic boxes can give some hassle. not sure about what mileage this begins at, but request it as a preventive measure.

Also check control arm bushes, complain about squeaking (try for new shocks).

 

[///M Individual]

Thanks guys. Car is at bmw at the moment. Will probably go in a few more times before the end of the month to try and get all of the common stuff sorted.

 

[akash]

Have them check diff couplings, catalytic converter and coils as well. These are things that my brother in law had replaced just out of motor plan.

 

[ZED1]

All of the above plus power steering pump!

 

[andrewbuch]

After complaining about shoddy handling (that was obviously non existent) And then a second time saying there is a knock in the front suspension, they replaced our control arms & bushes & Front shocks.

So I would suggest you get them to check the rubbish handling on bumpy roads & that knock noise when going over bumps..


Also the Gearbox changes very rough, needs oil & filter change.. But have heard that a faulty MAF also causes similar symptoms, so after they have done the oil & filter change on the box tell them the MAF must be stuffed as its still doing the same thing..

Also remember that the Steering wheel starts shuddering when applying the brakes, you think the disks are warped.. but also the back ones are really Squeeking as well as the handbrake does not hold so nice..

Also that strange knock noise when it changes down gears, coming from the back.. think its either rear trailing arm bushes, or the diff bushes

Also, when the ignition is on.. there is a high pitch noise coming from the engine compartment (We got a new VVT motor from saying this)

Think thats about all...

 

[MikeR]

:thumbsup: andrewbuch covers most...but - tell them the bloody wipers are crappy in the rain, we all forget that till the next time it rains.

 

[///M Individual]

Thanks very much guys. Very valuable advice. Appreciate it