Owning a BMW is a privilege, but as they say, “With great privilege, comes great responsibility.” Our responsibility, as BMW owners, is to understand the importance of proper maintenance in keeping our “Ultimate Driving Machine” in premium operating condition. One of the things that makes a BMW such a prize, is knowing that its German-engineering makes it superior to other cars on the road and, just as the car is superior, so must be your BMW service provider. At Auto Works of Brandon, our technicians are all ASE-Certified to diagnose and repair any and all issues that may arise with your BMW. Although we are completely familiar with what signs and sounds point us to specific operational issues with your car, we wanted to provide a checklist of symptoms to help owners identify potential problems and avoid more costly BMW troubleshooting and repairs down the road.
ENGINE
Symptom: Engine does not rotate at start / Possible Causes:
- Disconnected, corroded or faulty Battery
- Starting Circuit is disconnected or loose
- Starter motor failed
- Engine ground strap is disconnected or broken
Symptom: Engine Stalls / Possible Causes:
- Fuel Filter is plugged
- Fuel tank vent and pipes may be blocked or restricted
- Spark plug failed
- Fuel injection failure
Symptom: Engine does not idle properly / Possible Causes:
- Vacuum leak at throttle body, intake manifold or hoses
- Air Filter could be dirty or clogged
- Spark Plug failed
- Timing chain/belt not well-tensioned
COOLING SYSTEM
Symptom: Overheating / Possible Causes:
- Coolant level is low
- Thermostat needs to be replaced
- Expansion tank pressure cap failed
- Temperature gauge inaccurate
Symptom: Overcooling / Possible Causes:
- Thermostat needs to be replaced
- Viscous coupling is faulty
- Temperature gauge inaccurate
Symptom: Coolant Leak / Possible Causes:
- Damaged hose and/or clips
- Faulty pressure cap
- Core plug leaking
- Radiator core leak
FUEL andamp; EXHAUST SYSTEMS
Symptom: Fuel Consumption High / Possible Causes:
- Tire under inflated
- Air filter is dirty
- Irigation system is faulty
- Fuel injection system is faulty
Symptom: Excessive noise or fumes / Possible Causes:
- Leaking exhaust system or faulty joints
- Muffler or pipe needs to be replaced
STEERING andamp; SUSPENSION
Symptom: Wheel wobbles and vibration is present
Possible Causes:
- Tires are out of balance
- Wheel may be damaged
- Wheel bolts are loose (CHECK IMMEDIATELY)
Symptom: Instability
Possible Causes:
- Wheel alignment is incorrect
- Tire may be damaged
- Shock absorbers needs to be replaced
- Wheel bolts are loose (CHECK IMMEDIATELY)
Symptom: Power steering problem
Possible Causes:
- Check power steering fluid
- Power steering fluid hoses may be clogged
- Power steering pump needs replacement
This is a very general list, so if your car is having any of these issues, it is best to bring it in to Auto Works of Brandon so that we can accurately diagnose the issue with our state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and get you back on the road safely and without delay. We are an ASE Blue Seal Shop of Excellence and have received the Angie’s List Super Service Award for 2014. All of our technicians are BMW-certified and will provide the premium service and maintenance that the BMW brand demands. As one of the top-rated BMW service providers in the Tampa Bay area, you can trust that we will keep your BMW performing as your “Ultimate Driving Machine.” Call us today.