F30 issues and service

Peter@AEW

BMWFanatics Advertiser
Official Advertiser
You really are condescending.

If you spent 30 seconds googling the problem you would find a lot of owners complaining about the steering.

It is a factory shortfall in the design.

No matter how much you discuss it here it will not help the dealers as they have already received the service bulletins from BMW and what to do with it.

Besides what makes you think that if you go to a dealer and tell him what you discussed it here and the remedy, that he will even listen when he is controlled by the factory and the procedures he undertakes are vetted by the factory as there is a motorplan claim.

btw this forum is not only for F30 owners :)
 

DieselFan

Honorary ///Member
All models have had their issues. And none have been perfect. All have their pros and cons.

E46 also had a steering rack recall and redesign. If this is a serious issue with the F30 then I'm sure it will get redesigned and recalled.

Can we stop acting like children now. Thanks.
 

JustNN

New member
:quote: a1exander :
Besides what makes you think that if you go to a dealer and tell him what you discussed it here and the remedy, that he will even listen when he is controlled by the factory and the procedures he undertakes are vetted by the factory as there is a motorplan claim :quote:

Sorry you are wrong here, they have procedures and will follow them yes but they will check what you ask them to and only do that but in there way,

I spoke to the workshop manager and i told him to send my car to get wheel alignment(after speaking to friend) before they changed the control arms which he did and he phoned me to tell me the humming is gone.

Like i have said time and time again, make friends with the bmw guys and they will do what you ask and take your advice and actually do it
 

moranor@axis

///Member
Official Advertiser
a1exander trade your F355 for a few F30 so you can be Qualified to comment :rollsmile:


TBH how does one comment get blown so hugely out of proportion?
 

cOlDFuSiOn

New member
The majority of F30 steering racks get replaced so the car is mechanically safe but the knocks and rattles seem to be a sign of the times? That said this will be my last 3 series ever I think one is much better off with a higher spec range of car.

My reasoning is that all popular models are churned out way quicker and probably have the most cost savings applied to them in the design and manufacturing phases to maximize final profits as these are the bread and butter models so to speak. It's not what we want to hear but this is the reality of the situation in my humble opinion.

I have complained numerous times regarding the surface rust on the front seat but tonno avail and to be frank I have much more important things to do with my time than fight for a seat or a rattle. So easy solution to this is to make sure my next few are proper cars, M cars I think :thumbs:
 

Peter@AEW

BMWFanatics Advertiser
Official Advertiser
Today I changed plugs and a coil pack on an e90 323 and was once again reminded how cheaply the new cars are put together.
A shame really for in their quest to save weight they have compromised on quality as well.

I doubt whether the new generation Ms will be any better in the 3 and 4 series.

I get the distinct impression that BMW has entered the high volume segment in the 1/2/3 and 4 series and corner cutting on quality will increase if nothing else
 

JustNN

New member
I started this thread to help fellow F30 owners identify and resolve certain issues on their cars, also to help those who didnt realise that these things where issues.

This thread was not for people to discuss which generation is better then others, or bmw cutting corners for cost sakes.

Grow up people
 
Dude, seriously if you are not happy with the forum and how it's working / running (successfully for many years I might add) why don't you go and start you own "F30 owners only" club ?

You then can tell everyone what to do, in the meantime FI or FO.
 

cOlDFuSiOn

New member
To aid the known issues, to all owners you may want to check this, herewith my experience:

1) Rusted front seats due to a batch of seats that were not treated for oxidation from BMWs suppliers (bimmerpost info) - it is surface oxidation and probably nothing to fear

2) Suspension knocking from front - thus could be your steering rack and front suspension settings, BMW reset all settings too - ready for you to throw her into corners at speeds the GTIs don't dare try! :=):

3) Rattles from steering column/ roof itself - so they replace the plastic covers on the adjustable steering column and they also ripped out my cars roof lining and reinstalled it properly

4) Loose rear seat, easy fix some clips were loose

5) USB audio stops working, does not recognize devices - had to replace some Multimedia controller and load new software

6) Factory Goodyear runflats - if your car came with these I bid you good luck worst tyre ever they make sidewall bubbles like crazy. Replace them with Continentals :thumbs:

7) Exterior window trim, this got loose and they had to replace as well

8) Squeeky boot springs, easy fix spray them with some WD40.

Known issues on my F20:

1) Suspension knock from rear, BMW stripped it and reassembled - all good

2) Terrible rattle noise from engine at idle, ECU puts car into limp mode - vanos unit replaced

3) ECU warns of overheating and again advises to drive slowly, faulty water reservoir sensor

I think that was it, so if anyone has these issues you know what was was done (in my case) to remedy

Happy driving :thumbs:
 

Iceman007

Active member
cOlDFuSiOn said:
To aid the known issues, to all owners you may want to check this, herewith my experience:

1) Rusted front seats due to a batch of seats that were not treated for oxidation from BMWs suppliers (bimmerpost info) - it is surface oxidation and probably nothing to fear

2) Suspension knocking from front - thus could be your steering rack and front suspension settings, BMW reset all settings too - ready for you to throw her into corners at speeds the GTIs don't dare try! :=):

3) Rattles from steering column/ roof itself - so they replace the plastic covers on the adjustable steering column and they also ripped out my cars roof lining and reinstalled it properly

4) Loose rear seat, easy fix some clips were loose

5) USB audio stops working, does not recognize devices - had to replace some Multimedia controller and load new software

6) Factory Goodyear runflats - if your car came with these I bid you good luck worst tyre ever they make sidewall bubbles like crazy. Replace them with Continentals :thumbs:

7) Exterior window trim, this got loose and they had to replace as well

8) Squeeky boot springs, easy fix spray them with some WD40.

Known issues on my F20:

1) Suspension knock from rear, BMW stripped it and reassembled - all good

2) Terrible rattle noise from engine at idle, ECU puts car into limp mode - vanos unit replaced

3) ECU warns of overheating and again advises to drive slowly, faulty water reservoir sensor

I think that was it, so if anyone has these issues you know what was was done (in my case) to remedy

Happy driving :thumbs:

Many thanks for info, and yes I agree 100% just ignore the guys that cant read and still trying to derail the thread for some reason and admin will do the right thing

Jip the seats seem to be resolved from 2013 for there are no rust on mine and the other 2 x 2014 models of my nephew and his girlfriends dad.

When they replaced my steering rack they said that they suspect them to be better by fixing what went wrong internally. Only time will tell


cOlDFuSiOn said:
The majority of F30 steering racks get replaced so the car is mechanically safe but the knocks and rattles seem to be a sign of the times? That said this will be my last 3 series ever I think one is much better off with a higher spec range of car.

My reasoning is that all popular models are churned out way quicker and probably have the most cost savings applied to them in the design and manufacturing phases to maximize final profits as these are the bread and butter models so to speak. It's not what we want to hear but this is the reality of the situation in my humble opinion.

I have complained numerous times regarding the surface rust on the front seat but tonno avail and to be frank I have much more important things to do with my time than fight for a seat or a rattle. So easy solution to this is to make sure my next few are proper cars, M cars I think :thumbs:

Well the rust issue can be fixed as a diy out of plan one day. My seat leather actually came loose on centre console side. Its actually a plastic strip bonded to the leather that clips to the base of the seat. So you can un clip it when seat is removed and remove leather and cushion and treat the rust and spray it. Then just assemble it again.

I did read somewhere that some people actually got their seats treated by dealers after complaining. The only major issue I had was the steering and the humming that is gone now. I must say I am lucky thus far for I have no rattles. Maybe the newer models they fixed their rattle mistakes. Any other guys with rattles and what year was it build if it does rattle?
 

Luigi_S

Member
I got one rattle in the interior light at the rear. Apparently they are ordering a clip that will stop that. Will report back once that's done.
 

VernonD

Member
cOlDFuSiOn said:
To aid the known issues, to all owners you may want to check this, herewith my experience:

1) Rusted front seats due to a batch of seats that were not treated for oxidation from BMWs suppliers (bimmerpost info) - it is surface oxidation and probably nothing to fear

2) Suspension knocking from front - thus could be your steering rack and front suspension settings, BMW reset all settings too - ready for you to throw her into corners at speeds the GTIs don't dare try! :=):

3) Rattles from steering column/ roof itself - so they replace the plastic covers on the adjustable steering column and they also ripped out my cars roof lining and reinstalled it properly

4) Loose rear seat, easy fix some clips were loose

5) USB audio stops working, does not recognize devices - had to replace some Multimedia controller and load new software

6) Factory Goodyear runflats - if your car came with these I bid you good luck worst tyre ever they make sidewall bubbles like crazy. Replace them with Continentals :thumbs:

7) Exterior window trim, this got loose and they had to replace as well

8) Squeeky boot springs, easy fix spray them with some WD40.

Known issues on my F20:

1) Suspension knock from rear, BMW stripped it and reassembled - all good

2) Terrible rattle noise from engine at idle, ECU puts car into limp mode - vanos unit replaced

3) ECU warns of overheating and again advises to drive slowly, faulty water reservoir sensor

I think that was it, so if anyone has these issues you know what was was done (in my case) to remedy

Happy driving :thumbs:

These are a lot of problems. I didn't even have half of the problems on my E90 sports pack.
 

IC3

New member
I find it strange that you received good service from Forsdicks Pinetown. I took my 320i there once. The power steering fluid was low, I suspected there was a leak and asked them to check it. Booked the car in with Stephen.

Just to perform the checks and top up the fluid it took 2 days.

Furthermore Stephen did not even call on the first day to update me on the progress or to let me know that the car will be needed for 2 days .

I had to call 5 times just to get a hold of him.

It is bad customer service when a Service consultant tells you they will call you back in a few mins , then only return your call towards the end of the next day.

After the 2 days I was told the car had no leaks and that the fluid was topped up.

Few weeks later the fanbelt tore, due to the power steering pulley cracking and shredding the belt.

Took the car to another dealership. And everything was sorted out in one day, new belt, new pulley etc. No problems after that.

Id never recommend Forsdicks in Pinetown.:thumbdo:
 

Iceman007

Active member
VernonD said:
cOlDFuSiOn said:
To aid the known issues, to all owners you may want to check this, herewith my experience:

1) Rusted front seats due to a batch of seats that were not treated for oxidation from BMWs suppliers (bimmerpost info) - it is surface oxidation and probably nothing to fear

2) Suspension knocking from front - thus could be your steering rack and front suspension settings, BMW reset all settings too - ready for you to throw her into corners at speeds the GTIs don't dare try! :=):

3) Rattles from steering column/ roof itself - so they replace the plastic covers on the adjustable steering column and they also ripped out my cars roof lining and reinstalled it properly

4) Loose rear seat, easy fix some clips were loose

5) USB audio stops working, does not recognize devices - had to replace some Multimedia controller and load new software

6) Factory Goodyear runflats - if your car came with these I bid you good luck worst tyre ever they make sidewall bubbles like crazy. Replace them with Continentals :thumbs:

7) Exterior window trim, this got loose and they had to replace as well

8) Squeeky boot springs, easy fix spray them with some WD40.

Known issues on my F20:

1) Suspension knock from rear, BMW stripped it and reassembled - all good

2) Terrible rattle noise from engine at idle, ECU puts car into limp mode - vanos unit replaced

3) ECU warns of overheating and again advises to drive slowly, faulty water reservoir sensor

I think that was it, so if anyone has these issues you know what was was done (in my case) to remedy

Happy driving :thumbs:

These are a lot of problems. I didn't even have half of the problems on my E90 sports pack.

:nonono:

Take note that not everybody has the same problems. The F30 is by far a better car than the E90. The common problem seems to be the steering rack, and the humming noise that could be related to tyres or wheel alignment,
 

MaX

New member
VernonD said:
These are a lot of problems. I didn't even have half of the problems on my E90 sports pack.

Here you go http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1462

Back on topic, my 328 is going for its first service on Thursday. Items i want them to look at additional to the service includes:
- air con flush
- want them to adjust my M exhaust
- brake pedal has a bit if play i want them to remove

Will report back if they pick up any campaigns on the car.
 

cOlDFuSiOn

New member
VernonD said:
cOlDFuSiOn said:
To aid the known issues, to all owners you may want to check this, herewith my experience:

1) Rusted front seats due to a batch of seats that were not treated for oxidation from BMWs suppliers (bimmerpost info) - it is surface oxidation and probably nothing to fear

2) Suspension knocking from front - thus could be your steering rack and front suspension settings, BMW reset all settings too - ready for you to throw her into corners at speeds the GTIs don't dare try! :=):

3) Rattles from steering column/ roof itself - so they replace the plastic covers on the adjustable steering column and they also ripped out my cars roof lining and reinstalled it properly

4) Loose rear seat, easy fix some clips were loose

5) USB audio stops working, does not recognize devices - had to replace some Multimedia controller and load new software

6) Factory Goodyear runflats - if your car came with these I bid you good luck worst tyre ever they make sidewall bubbles like crazy. Replace them with Continentals :thumbs:

7) Exterior window trim, this got loose and they had to replace as well

8) Squeeky boot springs, easy fix spray them with some WD40.

Known issues on my F20:

1) Suspension knock from rear, BMW stripped it and reassembled - all good

2) Terrible rattle noise from engine at idle, ECU puts car into limp mode - vanos unit replaced

3) ECU warns of overheating and again advises to drive slowly, faulty water reservoir sensor

I think that was it, so if anyone has these issues you know what was was done (in my case) to remedy

Happy driving :thumbs:

These are a lot of problems. I didn't even have half of the problems on my E90 sports pack.

I blew 2 clutches + 1 flywheel on my '07 E90 Excl and 4 clutches + 2 flywheels on my '09 E90 MSport, BMW admitted to me the clutches are too soft.. They cannot handle traffic. So I bought an auto for a daily.

All in all still very happy with the F30, good cars regardless :thumbs:
 

Luigi_S

Member
A couple of things I'm not impressed with are:

Squeaks from the dashboard. Sounds like the plastic is rubbing against itself. A car at this price point should feel solid with no untoward rattles or squeaks.

And the noisy suspension. I can hear every bump, sounds like a 20 year old car with no bushes.

I cannot believe this is normal or acceptable. Anybody else have this?
 

ShaneP

///Member
Luigi_S said:
A couple of things I'm not impressed with are:

Squeaks from the dashboard. Sounds like the plastic is rubbing against itself. A car at this price point should feel solid with no untoward rattles or squeaks.

And the noisy suspension. I can hear every bump, sounds like a 20 year old car with no bushes.

I cannot believe this is normal or acceptable. Anybody else have this?


I don't have a squeaky dashboard, or noisy suspension......only issue I had was a humming sound that actually disappeared after a wheel alignment done by bmw a few weeks ago.....weird.........apart from that my car seems to be perfect (touch wood).....

So my car may not be one of those made on a Friday afternoon....lol.....Jokin...
 
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