Did all these Maintence tips, owned the x3 for 4 years now still havent spent over $1100 on parts, 155k miles. Saved 6k in labor doing this all myself, very easy to do. Highly recommend the K&N drop in filter and K&N oil filter
I love my e53 m54.great video. One thing I noticed is that I get the occasional P2096/2098 but only when the fuel is above 1/4 below 3/4. I suspect the purge valve or tank leak system is letting in some air when cycling. Smoke testing it seems like my next step. I’m getting a smoke tester for Christmas so my holiday days off are filled.
Thanks buddy, really appreciate the info on the video! I have a 2.2 z3 at 90k, just want to keep that beauty running as best as possible. Making a list currently of bits to do in readiness for the summer :). Changed quite a bit already...dreading the vanos seals and CCV!!!
I see alot of 200000km E39s with no body damage go to the wreckers and think what a waste. With a bit of know how they can easily last double that. I have one with 570000km, and I always say this will be the last set of brakes and tyres I do on it, but if the engine and trans needs no major internal work then I figure I may as well keep it going.
Superb video, Dean. I concur 100 percent on your recommendations on this engine. And you are also correct that some of these items will fail well before a 100K. Living in Texas, where the temps in the shade will hit over 110 degrees in the summer months, some parts will definitely fail sooner. Never really had a problem with the fan clutch. Have had to replace one in 62K miles. Also agree that one must learn to do the maintenance yourself. It is just too prohibitive cost wise, to get a professional BMW tech to do the work on the E46 cars. Yea, some people have a load of money. Well good for them. Most don't. Well worth the effort learning how to do most of this yourself. Thanks again for "throwing a bone" to the M54 guys. I know we all enjoy your knowledge and your support, of the BMW brand!
In the US here. Have a 2004 X3 2.5 with the M54 and a 6 speed MT. Has been a solid engine for the 7 years I've owned it, now have 202k miles/325k km on it. And looking to keep it going! Keep up the good content!
I got rid of the mechanical fan and replaced mine with a electrical fan years ago and it has worked great with no issues. I only did it because it makes it easier to work on the car with the electric fan it takes 2 mins to remove but with the mechanical fan it's not easy and quick to remove.
I would also add whenever you do your CCV (Crank Case Ventilation) also replace the 2 plastic hoses that run from the radiator into the engine underneath the intake manifold at the same time along with the intake gasket and while there check every hose that is worn out and replace it. I recently had to replace both of those 2 plastic hoses because they bursed while I was driving on the way to work one day and I immidiately pull over and turned off the car to save it. Luckily I was able to save it and fix it but it was a royal pain. I took my time with it with the help of UA-cam and replaced a lot of frayed and worn out vaccum hoses, and such and at the same time did the CCV as the it was breaking apart when I took the intake manifold off. When you do that, replace the oil dip stick rubber gasket too. These are small things but trust me, these small things can grow to something much more serious later on.
I have an e46 everything you talk about I'm in motion of doing my intake manifold off as soon as I replace inlet heater pipes under manifold I'm installing back my manifold myself
Great video, wish you went more into PCV system. Battle over year after BMW dealer replaced oil pan gasket and oil filter seal. Ran like a tank for the first 10 minute and people were saying MAP. Then saw in old video were someone mentioned ruff running at start. Upon pulling electronics box there it was. Hose broken coming out of valve going to dip stick. Note 168,000 on BMW and the hoses all broke in half replacing the PCV. Looks like BMW uses a straw manufacturer to make hoses.
I bought an Aluminum resivior tank for my 2002 e46 325ci, I replaced my radiator with an aluminium one, I'm having my cam shaft done, new clutch motor mounts oil pan fuel filter replaced every plastic hose with rubber. I bought all the parts, I'm hoping the labor doesn't make me regret the work I've have had done. 154k
Did my cooling system last summer, cleaned my ICV . The CCV is next summer project along with cooling pipe. Debating about the starter also while I'm there
Enjoyed watching this video. Do you have a video DIY valve stem seals and where to get the right tools for the job? I see oil in the cylinder 2 spark plug, cleaned a couple of times, used some at205(stop leak) hoping to temporally stop it, but it keeps returning, must be pretty bad. I've a m54b30 Automatic 05 Sedan ZHP. Purchased the car with 92k miles and 4 months later it's now over 105k miles. I've service records of the car from day 1 and have done pretty much all maintain item you've mentioned in this video. Well done with the list.
My 2001 E46 325xi Touring has 225k+ miles on it... And I keep finding that a lot of the parts are from 2006, or factory original issue. The waterpump finally died, and ate the drive belt... Now I'm trying to cure the oil consumption issue (1qt per 400 miles, aka one tank of 91octane), and replace the parts that might be holding it back. Not looking forward to taking off the intake, but it'll be nice to do vac lines, CCV separator, OFHG, and other things in one shot when I feel like spending an entire day getting arm-deep in my engine. At this point, I'm happy it runs and isn't throwing codes, aside from thermostat failed open... 😅
Taking my m54 04 facelift 330ci to the shop to have the cold climate ccv kit installed, intake manifold gasket, intake air distributer,rotors and pads all around, brake flush, SS brake lines, auto tranny flush and tranny filter, differential fluid flush, 6x ngk spark plugs, water pump, thermostat, expansion tank, aluminum water pump pulley, the other aluminum pulley(forgot name) and 2x belts, also mechanic fan to eletric fan conversion I want to give that a shot. I dont want my mechanical fan blowing up. CHEERRS GREAT VIDEO MATE!!
That is an awesome video. I'm a happy 320i owner of this m54b22. If you could do a different intro, you could also use the video as buying advice. Great one, thanks!
@@BMWDoctor M54 engines,2.2,2.5 and 3.0 are almost the same,just the size...they share lots of parts....so they have the same problems.....seals,gaskets,disa valve,vanos.....but in the end they are very good and reliable engines,if maintained correctly.👍
Just found you 👍 My son just been given free a 2005 330ci sport, full BMW service history 😀😀only 78,000 miles ! Couple of abs & exhaust issues! Thanks for the in-depth fixes!😀
Don't ever listen to Nathan, hes the quintessential backyard hack mechanic seems like a really nice guy but, well you've seen his work! Thank u for talking about that fan clutch. I'm a new subscriber now.
What do you think of running 90 RON in an M54 powered car, more specifically the 3.0L? I've yet to experience lack of power, I run 98 RON occasionally and it doesn't feel any different going back to the lower RON fuel. Observed fuel economy is the same between the two. It is only a 10.2:1 compression ratio motor though, so I really don't think it needs the premium fuel.
YO DOC, Im buying me an 03 325xi on monday w/ this engine obviously & am sure I will be able to manage these repairs when & if they happen to arise on mine.(Hopefully they don't & I luck out w/ a good find) Anyways..after seeing all these different scenario's of pin-pointing the exact cause of the issue, Im afraid I will not be able to guess which to try & repair or replace 1st. DO THESE CARS GIVE THE CORRECT DIAGNOSTIC REPAIR CODE MOST OF THE TIME WHEN PLUGGING IN ONE OF THE VEHICLE READERS? WILL THIS BE RELIABLE FOR ME TO COUNT ON TO DIAGNOSE?
exactly mate these engines are brilliant and cant be matched I love the M54 engine I always have its the best engine ever produced and I don't care what has come along since nothing beats the M54 plant
Completely agree, not to mention the e46 platform is straight forward to work on. Hell even my e90 is easy to work on, its not cheap but it’s easy. When people that ask me what car should they get, i tell them don’t get a BMW, their instant reply is “is it because it’s not reliable? Heh heh heh” I tell them no because your cheap ass won’t maintain it, BMWs are super reliable as long as they are maintained proper.
thats exactly it mate N52 is a easy easy engine and so is M54 I believe especially removing valve cover on M54 is alot easier then N52 but in the same essence BOTH have there ups and downside the M54 is a great engine and very smooth and is very cheap to maintain providing your doing the work yourself ON THE DOWNSIDE N52 is a expensive engine to maintain and doesn't run perfectly smooth as M54 because of the solenoids but N52 is still a cracking engine and I love how it performs both are different units M54 vanos is brilliant BUT N52 valvetronic delivers it alot better for the timing I think and gives that oommmmmph when you need it and not so high rpm
The knowledge you know about these cars is why I’m subbed and binge watch all your stuff mate. Yeah my buddy with the e46 was about to sell his car because of the leaky oil filter housing, valve cover gasket, and disa valve. BMW quoted him an astronomical price to do it. I said Ryan, just buy the parts from them and we can take care of the rest. I’m not even close to being a mechanic but common sense and a little know how got the job done.
yes mate that is all it takes mechanical knowledge is bollocks these cars dont require special tools and mechanical knowledge my 10 year old could fix these cars mate the rates garages charge and tell people is disgusting I was actually gonna call garages here and get quotes and show people how garages con people and record all the phone calls to show you guys how much garages charge for one job and how long they tell you for each job like for instance n52 MANIFOLD takes 10 mins a garage will say it takes half a day to remove it lol and £650 and then I will go back at them telling them I can remove it in 10 mins so why the high price and lets see what they say
Great video. Clutch fan is a mixed bag, I’ve seen them fail catastrophically and ended up cutting all pipes, belts and messed up the hood as well. I prefer an electric fan.
I have a Z3 2.2 M54, on 120,000 miles, changed all the parts as said in the video except the Vanos seals, still like new. The CCV and crankcase sensor has to be done soon.
ive owned an e39 530i for more than 4 years now, and its really grown on me. its now just in the mechanics hands having a lot of maintenance work carried out , but i chose to go ahead and spend the money on it as they are brilliant cars! I appreciate you saying theres a lot people can do themselves to save on labour costs , but i prefer to earn my money how i know best and pay somebody who knows what they are doing to repair the car!
can you tell me i have a e39 525i which i bought recently and changed everything , i started the car and it drives smoothly but recently saw smoke coming out the exhaust , at first i did not take much notice of it but i have dug a little deeper and they say the head gasket is gone , what would you think it was .
I really admire your enthusiasm over the car, I have a E46 M54 2002 CI sport coupe and have had a lot of issues. The headgasket was replaced at 100,000 (which sadly resulted in a cold-start misfire), the gear box reconditioned (cost a fortune) I cleaned ICV and cleaned and checked DISA valve, thermostat and water pump replaced, along with viscous cooling fan, spark plugs, coils, I am currently however on my 5th expansion tank and am uncertain as to why. They keep on cracking and leaking. I did a head gasket failure test the other week, the fluid did not change colour so presumably ok. Car was converted to run on LPG too. Can you offer any advice which would be much appreciated?
Doc, help me where to dig. Please. 330i m54. 120 kilometers, all is perfect, but ass soon as it gets warm, sometimes NOT ALWAYS it has got low rpm that causes shimmy idle when brake is on (automatic ZF gearbox). No codes .
I really like this kind of videos more 👌, here you are already showing something of value, and something you can help with ! I really like my M52B28tu, and I think it's a little more reliable, because have better oil piston rings but there is a solution, that i think so this is my personal opinion. 😀👍 I have done most of the things you said.
Brother I have a trick coming up for piston rings on this mate something that ain’t been shown on UA-cam!!! And thanks bro AS I SAID that video was a one off and that’s it my rage and what I needed to say was done it’s back to business
My water cooling reservoir blow up at 187k miles, got no clutch fan (electric), cover gasket leaks for every 30k needs to be replace, DISA is still fine (190k).
Dr. Dean, where is the best place to download the software for scanning my 2004 BMW 530i / E60? God I love this car and have had her since she was a baby. She is getting a little older now and I have gone through all of the coolant system, hoses, pump etc. She only has 74K miles on her and looks and feels like new. However, I know what is coming and want to get ahead of the issues before they cause any problems down the road so to speak. I bought a K-line USB connector but want a decent SW for the scanning. Do you have some videos that go through that process?
No mate and the software you can’t just download it mate it’s not free And anyone’s giving it for free is illegal and it will be shut down I’m the only authorised seller of the software that’s why I have 100 programs of the software and many will only have 6-7 which they have got illegally
Replacing the PWC Clutch fan at 100k miles sounds like a sensible precaution but every year seems excessive. Are you doing 100k miles each year Dean? My M54 engine is just approaching 100k miles so I will probably change mine. However, a work colleague with the same 2003 e39 as mine ran it for 385k miles until he eventually scrapped it this year. As far as I know the fan never failed.
I have a 04 325i and I bought the car a few weeks ago and the car doesn’t have a Ccv system but it has one coming from the valve cover to the top of the intake is that normal?
Not really mate no these cars are actually very good and not fussy about battery’s unlike the newer cars they are picky and will not even power up anything with a smaller battery
BMW Doctor that’s great mate! Thanks for the fast reply, just bagged a very unloved 2003 330ci full black leather 6 speed manual, cannot wait to get stuck and you’ll be a great help!
So...Bmw Dr. Im thinking about rebuilding a m54 engine from the ground up. Is there anything I can do to build reliable BHP, Camshafts big bore kit head work big valves etc? Does anybody sell these kind of products? I'm looking for real HP not tricks and hacks like ecu tune for a higher rpm or throttle pedal tricks. Any ideas? Lmk! Thanks
Hi BMW Doctor, I've got an unrelated question about changing an E90 battery. The current battery in the car is a 12v 90ah 900a 900ccc. Halfords recommends one of it's own brand battery (AGM 019 stop/start) 95ah 850ccc. Will putting in that battery with slightly different spec damage anything in the car?
Good vid, my e46 325i has developed a problem recently, when i take my foot of the gas and step on the clutch the rpm dip down under 500. Also it is kinda shaky when i whant to go again. Vakuum hoses are new throttle body boot, and ccv are new all original bmw, disa is fine, no engine fault codes Car got 122k km If you got some Tipps that would be super nice.:)
Did you find your problem? I also have it. New o2 sensors, new disa, new vanos seals, new ngk plugs, new intake boots, new ccv, cleaned throttle and icv.
Great video. I have an e39 140k miles, auto transmission. The speedometer doesnt work and have abs/dsc/brake lights all on. I already replaced the abs wheel speed sensor. Still doesnt work any ideas?
your best thing mate is to scan it its important to always scan to find the correct codes for these things thats why bmw is heavily armed with alot of sensors to make diagnosing as easy as possible I will state ISTA is your best option mate
If you already replaced the RR sensor then likely the abs module has failed. You can confirm this by swapping pins at the module for wheel speed input with the LR, or piggy back the signal at the back. (LR feeding the RR signal)
I had the same issue minus speedometer issue. All 3 lights on after wheel speed sensor means you need to get abs module rebuilt. Very common and should fix it
need some help. Got a 2003 Z4 3.0i and it's lovely. M54 engine of course. But I am getting 4 error codes 1812, F112, F181, 3F11 -- any help is appreciated.
I have a question about the pulleys, if I have bad pulleys would it make my clutch fan wobble I changed out my clutch fan and my water pump but it still wobbles and I didn't change the pulleys and I can't get an answer back from Nathan
What about two plastic cooling pipes under the intake? I couldn´t find nothing about it. Cooling System ist a weak point here and the plastic is a ticking bomb. Everything else that you mentioned in Video has been replaced two years ago. I just dont want to remove the intake for second time because of these two stupid pipes.
mate they will be fine they dont break easily the only time I have seen them break is actually when there seized and people are trying to take them OFF they snap thats it so just leave them be and they will be fine
Great vid bro. I have 04 e60. About 85k miles. I have active steering fault on my dashboard. I feel the active steering still works while driving. Any ideas?
Hi mate, could you please tell me whet the main difference is between 530d and 525d engine and which one is better apart from the bhp , I’m considering the 525d but wondering if it’s major diff from the 530d ..would be appreciated if you could clarify thanks !
No difference mate at all only difference is BHP and the fact that 530D IS MORE fully loaded with bigger sat nav where 525d it’s rare to have that and doesn’t come all the time fully loaded but overall there is no difference
Thanks for the reply mate, so it’s the exact same engine ?.. and I can increase bhp with re-map I guess and I’m not bothered about sat nav so that’s fine ..I seen 525d with 84k on clock with 2 owners 2008 for 6.5k you think it’s worth it ?..thanks in advance
Love you videos, I would like to get your opinion on the fault codes that I have been chasing on my X5 e53 m54 engine: P0444 Raw code: 0444; ECU: 12; Status: Confirmed Evaporative emission (EVAP) canister purge valve - open circuit Evaporative Emission System Purge Control Valve Circuit Open ============6============== P0050; Raw code: 0050; ECU: 12; Status: Confirmed Heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) 1, bank 2, heater control - circuit malfunction HO2S Heater Control Circuit
Where do you buy your parts? Why not create a page linking to a full overhaul kit - you could make a commission if you set up a promo code and help a lot of people by setting up a one stop shop
Fcp euro has always treated me well. Great pricing and lifetime warranty in almost everything. German auto solutions has a few specialized items that are of good quality too.
BMW Doctor 2004 Bmw E60 525i with automatic transmission | I got 173k miles also starting to get shift problems and sometimes transmission malfunction code comes on rarely. I took to bmw while back and they said I was gonna need a new transmission and I laughed.
well he is now due get him to change them I bet his car must feel down on power in low rpm unlike this one this one is like a rocket easy to do we can do it with our eyes closed
TH3RAND0M CHANN3L mate you’re talking waffle 2.5 engine is slow as crap I had 325ci m sport with smg and it was SLOOOOOWWWW and I overhauled everything 330 is best if you think it’s still fairly quick you ain’t had your vanos seals done yet to actually feel what power is when you do them the whole car feels brand new and you get INSANE power
@@BMWDoctor I meant it's quick to say it's only a 2.5 and there not really that slow as far as what I can tell. With me being only 17 it would be harder for me to get insured on a 3.0 than a 2.5 aswell.
You already know why bro it’s called when they know there being shipped to the USA they send all the crap everyone talks about climate has a huge factor on the parts but let me state Australia is in the same climate even hotter then the USA and they get there cars from here and never have a problem unlike the USA ???? Don’t that show you something??? I will tell you though this is all to do with commonwealth if your not part of it you get treating like crap from what FEBI told me on the phone They get all the trainees that make the parts and make defects send them over to you and any part that is rejected here on the quality control procedure they send to you aswell Apparently it’s to do with your government the fact they want your parts to fail to make the parts stores more money and more revenue which means more tax for the government and each state EVERY SINGLE M54 I have owned has been on original parts even at 170k still that’s how it is here in the U.K. and there running fine and also also this gearbox also hasn’t been serviced and still runs perfect like a Swiss watch Do you know what Evan mate at least you see it ??? Others don’t want to see it and don’t believe me when I tell them Nathan is the only other person that knows this but as he said what can anyone do it’s how it is over there and nobody will do anything you can’t go to the dealer they laugh at you , you can’t go to bmw direct they don’t care , you can’t sue them , the government don’t care I would HATE to own a bmw in America if I’m honest I really would and wouldn’t ever own one there I know to much
@@BMWDoctor I wouldn't go that far. My E46 has been the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned and it is a North American bmw. The biggest advantage is that Americans are afraid to own a used bmw, so they can be purchased dirt cheap. Thank you for the video keep up the great work, I have replaced nearly every part you mentioned.
@BMW Doctor Hey, could you help me with something. After watching this video my e46 started to misfire lol. It’s misfiring on cylinders 1-3. Lambda control limit bank 1. Any ideas?
Let's face it, "Nathan" 1:07 is an OK barn mechanic who happens to know a thing or two about BMW cars... I do not dislike the guy perse but many times his recommendations come a bit self-righteous and preachy to be honest. I like more of the in-depth, pro-mechanic type aspects of your channel.
Brother I can’t agree with you on that, even tho me and Nathan have our differences me and Nathan are very good friends mate. Regardless what happens what we say about each other we talk to each other everyday like family which we have been close now for over 2 years not a day goes by that I don’t speak to him. Let me just explain Nathan is very very good at mechanical repairs, YES he has his beliefs of BMW like everybody on UA-cam but he’s very good at what he does. I’m good at the computer side of things aswell the programming , coding , cloning , key programming in very very computer literate that’s why I repair cars to high standard, as I use the TOP software to diagnose and replace. Nathan DIDN’T until he met me everyone can only do what they can and everyone is different that’s what UA-cam is about, if everyone did it the same and had the same beliefs you wouldn’t be unique and end up with your own subscribers who are different. Everyone goes on UA-cam looking for someone with the same beliefs as them on cars, not everyone is liked and some are liked more then others But bro me and Nathan are LITERALLY and I mean this like brothers and he does mechanical repairs that’s what he does, he isn’t computer literate BUT WHO IS !!! he’s old school I’m the new ERA of cars and I’m teaching him and he’s slowly getting there with my helping hand AND HOPEFULLY one day will becomes just like me with the same skills as me.
@@BMWDoctor Good to hear that you and Nathan are so close. As I said on my original post, it is not that I dislike him as a person; it is very hard for me to follow his advise that, at times, comes a bit disorganized, preachy, and a tad self-righteous. He is in fact very clever when it comes to improvisation, I give him that. I'm an amateur BMW, Saab, Honda mechanic but I have a background in science. To me is easier to follow your sequences, logic and lines of explanation. Thank you for that... The other amateur BMW tech guy I like his style is The 50's Kid, who happens to be an IT expert on his "real" job...
Yes mate you are correct. He is which I’m quite shocked why he gave up UA-cam, if he’s a IT expert shouldn’t he be here doing what I do ??? But watching his videos he doesn’t seem very car tech guy, and as cars progress is quickly and it’s forever changing year after year it isnt easy to follow. I am a IT guy myself always have been that’s how I got into what I do and I keep on learning as the days go buy to bring it to you guys. He’s let his channel GO when he could have become massive why not use them IT skills to his advantage ??? UA-cam is the place for that BUT so is shop life meant to be a IT expert !! But he’s the same can’t understand the newer technology of cars I hardly ever see anyone on UA-cam if I’m honest do what I do !!! Yet all these guys are IT experts if you can write a program , develop software, code a program , write coding then bmw is easy same as Mercedes I do both of them and I can do even more cars then that. All these people claim to be this and that but I haven’t seen them progress with it I mean shop life is still doing E46 I mean surely if these guys understood these cars electronically they would have done this ??? But then again IT & CAR ELECTRONICS especially BMW is completely different and you need to know the backdoor via the security components BUT you also have to INVEST heavily as this sort of stuff I do is NOT cheap it cost me 4K a month new programmers , licenses , its constantly changing every month every time they release a car
Did all these Maintence tips, owned the x3 for 4 years now still havent spent over $1100 on parts, 155k miles. Saved 6k in labor doing this all myself, very easy to do. Highly recommend the K&N drop in filter and K&N oil filter
Yes! Do more M54 content please
Awesome Doc Dean thanks mate, I’ve made my notes & I will give a E46 a good once over before Christmas 👍🥊🎄
Thank you BMW Doctor, you are amazing
YOU ARE AN AWESOME TUTOR!!!!!!!!!!!..... THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH BRO!!!!!!! ❤️❤️❤️👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿💪🏿💪🏿💪🏿💯💯💯
I love my e53 m54.great video. One thing I noticed is that I get the occasional P2096/2098 but only when the fuel is above 1/4 below 3/4. I suspect the purge valve or tank leak system is letting in some air when cycling. Smoke testing it seems like my next step. I’m getting a smoke tester for Christmas so my holiday days off are filled.
Thanks buddy, really appreciate the info on the video!
I have a 2.2 z3 at 90k, just want to keep that beauty running as best as possible.
Making a list currently of bits to do in readiness for the summer :).
Changed quite a bit already...dreading the vanos seals and CCV!!!
I see alot of 200000km E39s with no body damage go to the wreckers and think what a waste. With a bit of know how they can easily last double that. I have one with 570000km, and I always say this will be the last set of brakes and tyres I do on it, but if the engine and trans needs no major internal work then I figure I may as well keep it going.
350k miles holy shit!!!
Superb video, Dean. I concur 100 percent on your recommendations on this engine. And you are also correct that some of these items will fail well before a 100K. Living in Texas, where the temps in the shade will hit over 110 degrees in the summer months, some parts will definitely fail sooner. Never really had a problem with the fan clutch. Have had to replace one in 62K miles. Also agree that one must learn to do the maintenance yourself. It is just too prohibitive cost wise, to get a professional BMW tech to do the work on the E46 cars. Yea, some people have a load of money. Well good for them. Most don't. Well worth the effort learning how to do most of this yourself. Thanks again for "throwing a bone" to the M54 guys. I know we all enjoy your knowledge and your support, of the BMW brand!
Lance your welcome brother
In the US here. Have a 2004 X3 2.5 with the M54 and a 6 speed MT. Has been a solid engine for the 7 years I've owned it, now have 202k miles/325k km on it. And looking to keep it going! Keep up the good content!
no oil leaks? Got a Z3 80k miles scared owner after this video 🤣
I got rid of the mechanical fan and replaced mine with a electrical fan years ago and it has worked great with no issues. I only did it because it makes it easier to work on the car with the electric fan it takes 2 mins to remove but with the mechanical fan it's not easy and quick to remove.
I would also add whenever you do your CCV (Crank Case Ventilation) also replace the 2 plastic hoses that run from the radiator into the engine underneath the intake manifold at the same time along with the intake gasket and while there check every hose that is worn out and replace it. I recently had to replace both of those 2 plastic hoses because they bursed while I was driving on the way to work one day and I immidiately pull over and turned off the car to save it. Luckily I was able to save it and fix it but it was a royal pain. I took my time with it with the help of UA-cam and replaced a lot of frayed and worn out vaccum hoses, and such and at the same time did the CCV as the it was breaking apart when I took the intake manifold off. When you do that, replace the oil dip stick rubber gasket too. These are small things but trust me, these small things can grow to something much more serious later on.
I have an e46 everything you talk about I'm in motion of doing my intake manifold off as soon as I replace inlet heater pipes under manifold I'm installing back my manifold myself
Great video, wish you went more into PCV system. Battle over year after BMW dealer replaced oil pan gasket and oil filter seal. Ran like a tank for the first 10 minute and people were saying MAP. Then saw in old video were someone mentioned ruff running at start. Upon pulling electronics box there it was. Hose broken coming out of valve going to dip stick. Note 168,000 on BMW and the hoses all broke in half replacing the PCV. Looks like BMW uses a straw manufacturer to make hoses.
Epic video ! thank you
Late to the party but excellent info Dean, thanks
I bought an Aluminum resivior tank for my 2002 e46 325ci, I replaced my radiator with an aluminium one, I'm having my cam shaft done, new clutch motor mounts oil pan fuel filter replaced every plastic hose with rubber. I bought all the parts, I'm hoping the labor doesn't make me regret the work I've have had done. 154k
Great advice.
Best advice!
Did my cooling system last summer, cleaned my ICV . The CCV is next summer project along with cooling pipe. Debating about the starter also while I'm there
I would do it mate everyone in usa always says it fails so DO IT it aint a job you wanna do twice Kevin take my word on that
@@BMWDoctor Same thing I thought. Bought a set of spanners going to do a mod to it for easier access to the rear bolt.
Kevin Vandevelde yes mate that’s the way
Enjoyed watching this video. Do you have a video DIY valve stem seals and where to get the right tools for the job? I see oil in the cylinder 2 spark plug, cleaned a couple of times, used some at205(stop leak) hoping to temporally stop it, but it keeps returning, must be pretty bad.
I've a m54b30 Automatic 05 Sedan ZHP. Purchased the car with 92k miles and 4 months later it's now over 105k miles. I've service records of the car from day 1 and have done pretty much all maintain item you've mentioned in this video. Well done with the list.
My 2001 E46 325xi Touring has 225k+ miles on it... And I keep finding that a lot of the parts are from 2006, or factory original issue. The waterpump finally died, and ate the drive belt... Now I'm trying to cure the oil consumption issue (1qt per 400 miles, aka one tank of 91octane), and replace the parts that might be holding it back. Not looking forward to taking off the intake, but it'll be nice to do vac lines, CCV separator, OFHG, and other things in one shot when I feel like spending an entire day getting arm-deep in my engine. At this point, I'm happy it runs and isn't throwing codes, aside from thermostat failed open... 😅
Taking my m54 04 facelift 330ci to the shop to have the cold climate ccv kit installed, intake manifold gasket, intake air distributer,rotors and pads all around, brake flush, SS brake lines, auto tranny flush and tranny filter, differential fluid flush, 6x ngk spark plugs, water pump, thermostat, expansion tank, aluminum water pump pulley, the other aluminum pulley(forgot name) and 2x belts, also mechanic fan to eletric fan conversion I want to give that a shot. I dont want my mechanical fan blowing up. CHEERRS GREAT VIDEO MATE!!
whew that sound expensive
That is an awesome video. I'm a happy 320i owner of this m54b22.
If you could do a different intro, you could also use the video as buying advice.
Great one, thanks!
No mate not on that engine mate I don’t do any 320i 120i 520i engines sorry mate only 3.0
@@BMWDoctor M54 engines,2.2,2.5 and 3.0 are almost the same,just the size...they share lots of parts....so they have the same problems.....seals,gaskets,disa valve,vanos.....but in the end they are very good and reliable engines,if maintained correctly.👍
Just found you 👍 My son just been given free a 2005 330ci sport, full BMW service history 😀😀only 78,000 miles ! Couple of abs & exhaust issues! Thanks for the in-depth fixes!😀
no problem
It has the m54?
@@myz98f150 Yes, 330ci sport is m54
German auto solutions has a great disa upgrade. Also using their 1.2 bar coolant cap.
Don't ever listen to Nathan, hes the quintessential backyard hack mechanic seems like a really nice guy but, well you've seen his work! Thank u for talking about that fan clutch. I'm a new subscriber now.
What do you think of running 90 RON in an M54 powered car, more specifically the 3.0L? I've yet to experience lack of power, I run 98 RON occasionally and it doesn't feel any different going back to the lower RON fuel. Observed fuel economy is the same between the two. It is only a 10.2:1 compression ratio motor though, so I really don't think it needs the premium fuel.
Just did the oilfillter housing gasket, water pump and heater valve today.
All common issues mate
And will do the expansion tank and hoses when I put it back together. Already bought the parts, but should probably buy the belts aswell.
do it mate I have all videos regarding this mate so it should help you out greatly
YO DOC,
Im buying me an 03 325xi on monday w/ this engine obviously & am sure I will be able to manage these repairs when & if they happen to arise on mine.(Hopefully they don't & I luck out w/ a good find) Anyways..after seeing all these different scenario's of pin-pointing the exact cause of the issue, Im afraid I will not be able to guess which to try & repair or replace 1st.
DO THESE CARS GIVE THE CORRECT DIAGNOSTIC REPAIR CODE MOST OF THE TIME WHEN PLUGGING IN ONE OF THE VEHICLE READERS? WILL THIS BE RELIABLE FOR ME TO COUNT ON TO DIAGNOSE?
My buddy has a 2000 323i and it’s about to cross 200k, still runs strong. As long as you do maintenance on a BMW they will last forever.
exactly mate these engines are brilliant and cant be matched I love the M54 engine I always have its the best engine ever produced and I don't care what has come along since nothing beats the M54 plant
Completely agree, not to mention the e46 platform is straight forward to work on. Hell even my e90 is easy to work on, its not cheap but it’s easy. When people that ask me what car should they get, i tell them don’t get a BMW, their instant reply is “is it because it’s not reliable? Heh heh heh” I tell them no because your cheap ass won’t maintain it, BMWs are super reliable as long as they are maintained proper.
thats exactly it mate N52 is a easy easy engine and so is M54 I believe especially removing valve cover on M54 is alot easier then N52 but in the same essence BOTH have there ups and downside the M54 is a great engine and very smooth and is very cheap to maintain providing your doing the work yourself ON THE DOWNSIDE N52 is a expensive engine to maintain and doesn't run perfectly smooth as M54 because of the solenoids but N52 is still a cracking engine and I love how it performs both are different units M54 vanos is brilliant BUT N52 valvetronic delivers it alot better for the timing I think and gives that oommmmmph when you need it and not so high rpm
The knowledge you know about these cars is why I’m subbed and binge watch all your stuff mate. Yeah my buddy with the e46 was about to sell his car because of the leaky oil filter housing, valve cover gasket, and disa valve. BMW quoted him an astronomical price to do it. I said Ryan, just buy the parts from them and we can take care of the rest. I’m not even close to being a mechanic but common sense and a little know how got the job done.
yes mate that is all it takes mechanical knowledge is bollocks these cars dont require special tools and mechanical knowledge my 10 year old could fix these cars mate the rates garages charge and tell people is disgusting
I was actually gonna call garages here and get quotes and show people how garages con people and record all the phone calls to show you guys how much garages charge for one job and how long they tell you for each job like for instance n52 MANIFOLD takes 10 mins a garage will say it takes half a day to remove it lol and £650 and then I will go back at them telling them I can remove it in 10 mins so why the high price and lets see what they say
Great video. Clutch fan is a mixed bag, I’ve seen them fail catastrophically and ended up cutting all pipes, belts and messed up the hood as well. I prefer an electric fan.
get it outta there
I have a Z3 2.2 M54, on 120,000 miles, changed all the parts as said in the video except the Vanos seals, still like new. The CCV and crankcase sensor has to be done soon.
ive owned an e39 530i for more than 4 years now, and its really grown on me. its now just in the mechanics hands having a lot of maintenance work carried out , but i chose to go ahead and spend the money on it as they are brilliant cars!
I appreciate you saying theres a lot people can do themselves to save on labour costs , but i prefer to earn my money how i know best and pay somebody who knows what they are doing to repair the car!
Good video dean! I’m replacing my CCv right now on my m54 ! Without taking the intake off an it is a pain in the @ss.
Don’t I know it mate 😂
pull that manifold like building 7
Hi Bmw im just driver m54b22 its burn oil 1000km 1 lt can i used 10w60 oil?
can you tell me i have a e39 525i which i bought recently and changed everything , i started the car and it drives smoothly but recently saw smoke coming out the exhaust , at first i did not take much notice of it but i have dug a little deeper and they say the head gasket is gone , what would you think it was .
Could you make a list of each of those sections with the parts needed?
I really admire your enthusiasm over the car, I have a E46 M54 2002 CI sport coupe and have had a lot of issues. The headgasket was replaced at 100,000 (which sadly resulted in a cold-start misfire), the gear box reconditioned (cost a fortune) I cleaned ICV and cleaned and checked DISA valve, thermostat and water pump replaced, along with viscous cooling fan, spark plugs, coils, I am currently however on my 5th expansion tank and am uncertain as to why. They keep on cracking and leaking. I did a head gasket failure test the other week, the fluid did not change colour so presumably ok. Car was converted to run on LPG too. Can you offer any advice which would be much appreciated?
LOL "Car was converted to run on LPG too. "
Doc, help me where to dig. Please. 330i m54. 120 kilometers, all is perfect, but ass soon as it gets warm, sometimes NOT ALWAYS it has got low rpm that causes shimmy idle when brake is on (automatic ZF gearbox). No codes .
Your AWSOME Bro !
No problem mate
I really like this kind of videos more 👌, here you are already showing something of value, and something you can help with ! I really like my M52B28tu, and I think it's a little more reliable, because have better oil piston rings but there is a solution, that i think so this is my personal opinion. 😀👍 I have done most of the things you said.
Brother I have a trick coming up for piston rings on this mate something that ain’t been shown on UA-cam!!!
And thanks bro AS I SAID that video was a one off and that’s it my rage and what I needed to say was done it’s back to business
@@BMWDoctor Can you tell me what is the latest version of ista p and d if not secret of course? 🤔
I believe mate it’s 3.67 mate what you need ista p for bro
@@BMWDoctor I ask because i only use Inpa and bmw scanner and from time to time DIS and for coding NCS as a hobby.
mate you winkfp
My water cooling reservoir blow up at 187k miles, got no clutch fan (electric), cover gasket leaks for every 30k needs to be replace, DISA is still fine (190k).
I need this information thank you sir..
Dr. Dean, where is the best place to download the software for scanning my 2004 BMW 530i / E60? God I love this car and have had her since she was a baby. She is getting a little older now and I have gone through all of the coolant system, hoses, pump etc. She only has 74K miles on her and looks and feels like new. However, I know what is coming and want to get ahead of the issues before they cause any problems down the road so to speak. I bought a K-line USB connector but want a decent SW for the scanning. Do you have some videos that go through that process?
No mate and the software you can’t just download it mate it’s not free
And anyone’s giving it for free is illegal and it will be shut down I’m the only authorised seller of the software that’s why I have 100 programs of the software and many will only have 6-7 which they have got illegally
Replacing the PWC Clutch fan at 100k miles sounds like a sensible precaution but every year seems excessive. Are you doing 100k miles each year Dean?
My M54 engine is just approaching 100k miles so I will probably change mine. However, a work colleague with the same 2003 e39 as mine ran it for 385k miles until he eventually scrapped it this year. As far as I know the fan never failed.
I have a 04 325i and I bought the car a few weeks ago and the car doesn’t have a Ccv system but it has one coming from the valve cover to the top of the intake is that normal?
Your content is awesome mate! Is E46 330Ci 2003 picky when it comes to battery’s? Cheers!
Not really mate no these cars are actually very good and not fussy about battery’s unlike the newer cars they are picky and will not even power up anything with a smaller battery
BMW Doctor that’s great mate! Thanks for the fast reply, just bagged a very unloved 2003 330ci full black leather 6 speed manual, cannot wait to get stuck and you’ll be a great help!
no problem mate hope it does help you mate
So...Bmw Dr. Im thinking about rebuilding a m54 engine from the ground up. Is there anything I can do to build reliable BHP, Camshafts big bore kit head work big valves etc? Does anybody sell these kind of products? I'm looking for real HP not tricks and hacks like ecu tune for a higher rpm or throttle pedal tricks. Any ideas? Lmk! Thanks
Legend
Hi BMW Doctor, I've got an unrelated question about changing an E90 battery. The current battery in the car is a 12v 90ah 900a 900ccc. Halfords recommends one of it's own brand battery (AGM 019 stop/start) 95ah 850ccc. Will putting in that battery with slightly different spec damage anything in the car?
No mate it won’t you can change it with no problem mate just make sure to register it properly
@@BMWDoctor Thanks man, really appreciate your input!
Hi, where can I buy Easter scanner, pålease?
Good vid, my e46 325i has developed a problem recently, when i take my foot of the gas and step on the clutch the rpm dip down under 500.
Also it is kinda shaky when i whant to go again.
Vakuum hoses are new throttle body boot, and ccv are new all original bmw, disa is fine, no engine fault codes
Car got 122k km
If you got some Tipps that would be super nice.:)
Maybe the vanos ?
Did you find your problem? I also have it. New o2 sensors, new disa, new vanos seals, new ngk plugs, new intake boots, new ccv, cleaned throttle and icv.
What about E60, i have the same engine m54b30?
Great video. I have an e39 140k miles, auto transmission. The speedometer doesnt work and have abs/dsc/brake lights all on. I already replaced the abs wheel speed sensor. Still doesnt work any ideas?
your best thing mate is to scan it its important to always scan to find the correct codes for these things thats why bmw is heavily armed with alot of sensors to make diagnosing as easy as possible I will state ISTA is your best option mate
If you already replaced the RR sensor then likely the abs module has failed. You can confirm this by swapping pins at the module for wheel speed input with the LR, or piggy back the signal at the back. (LR feeding the RR signal)
Cameron Holowach The abs wheel speed sensor is on the rear left. Is that right?
I had the same issue minus speedometer issue. All 3 lights on after wheel speed sensor means you need to get abs module rebuilt. Very common and should fix it
need some help. Got a 2003 Z4 3.0i and it's lovely. M54 engine of course. But I am getting 4 error codes 1812, F112, F181, 3F11 -- any help is appreciated.
Vacuum leak has entered the chat lol
I have a question about the pulleys, if I have bad pulleys would it make my clutch fan wobble I changed out my clutch fan and my water pump but it still wobbles and I didn't change the pulleys and I can't get an answer back from Nathan
The fan clutch is fried change it before it hits your radiator!
What about two plastic cooling pipes under the intake? I couldn´t find nothing about it. Cooling System ist a weak point here and the plastic is a ticking bomb. Everything else that you mentioned in Video has been replaced two years ago. I just dont want to remove the intake for second time because of these two stupid pipes.
mate they will be fine they dont break easily the only time I have seen them break is actually when there seized and people are trying to take them OFF they snap thats it so just leave them be and they will be fine
BMW North America includes cars sold in Canada as well as the US. In Canada we have the same issues as US cars.
I know mate it is
Hey doctor, i got a dipped beam failure in the dash but everything is working fine.. Do you have idea what can be? 😓
Yes mate it means probably one of your headlights ain’t working
How did I miss this video
Why does the m54 in the e85 x3 sounds better than it does in the e53?
Great vid bro. I have 04 e60. About 85k miles. I have active steering fault on my dashboard. I feel the active steering still works while driving. Any ideas?
Get rid of it mate code it out mate it’s common problem
You can try turning full lock to full lock while its preferably off the ground. Worked for me
Where do you buy m54 engines?
Hi mate, could you please tell me whet the main difference is between 530d and 525d engine and which one is better apart from the bhp , I’m considering the 525d but wondering if it’s major diff from the 530d ..would be appreciated if you could clarify thanks !
No difference mate at all only difference is BHP and the fact that 530D IS MORE fully loaded with bigger sat nav where 525d it’s rare to have that and doesn’t come all the time fully loaded but overall there is no difference
Thanks for the reply mate, so it’s the exact same engine ?.. and I can increase bhp with re-map I guess and I’m not bothered about sat nav so that’s fine ..I seen 525d with 84k on clock with 2 owners 2008 for 6.5k you think it’s worth it ?..thanks in advance
Link for set of 02 sensors?
watching these video makes me want to sell my good running 2002 530....
Love you videos, I would like to get your opinion on the fault codes that I have been chasing on my X5 e53 m54 engine: P0444
Raw code: 0444; ECU: 12; Status: Confirmed Evaporative emission (EVAP) canister purge valve - open circuit Evaporative Emission System Purge Control Valve Circuit Open
============6==============
P0050; Raw code: 0050; ECU: 12; Status: Confirmed Heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) 1, bank 2, heater control - circuit malfunction HO2S Heater Control Circuit
Wuahteh pamp 😂 jk great vid very informative
When I give the car full throttle e60 530i m54b30 it smells really bad..
already replaced oil filter gasket, kge, valve cover gasket
smells of what Mate
@@BMWDoctor like burned oil or exhaust gases
Sounds like a clogged ccv
My M54 doesn’t have a viscous fan, and also has just over 30k miles atm.
Where do you buy your parts? Why not create a page linking to a full overhaul kit - you could make a commission if you set up a promo code and help a lot of people by setting up a one stop shop
Fcp euro has always treated me well. Great pricing and lifetime warranty in almost everything. German auto solutions has a few specialized items that are of good quality too.
How do you know what engine you got like the code name name of the engine I got a e60 525i
what year is your car
BMW Doctor 2004 Bmw E60 525i with automatic transmission | I got 173k miles also starting to get shift problems and sometimes transmission malfunction code comes on rarely. I took to bmw while back and they said I was gonna need a new transmission and I laughed.
Yes mate you have M54 engine with GM transmission typical problems mate gearbox is gone mate need new gearbox
Watching this video gives me hope to fix this 325ci that I got for my wife #BmwFamily
Bmw doctor were are you located?
“Oil filter gasket leaks in the USA”. Lol.
fcp.euro has a kit for that
only thing i dont like about the M54 is that they have alot of plastic in the engine bay and the compression rings wears out and drinks oil
not on this one mate every M54 I have owned doesn't suffer this issue
@@BMWDoctor true but hey its an old power plant with old cars with 200k plus nowdays so its gonna happen sooner or later :)
Mate this has 160k and perfect even gearbox ain’t been serviced and is still strong and goes smooth and perfect
62K and mine uses no oil between oil changes, which I have changed every three thousand miles since new.
compression rings have nothing to do with oil
I deleted the stupid clutch fan on my manual swapped e46 and put a electric fan in and it’s been perfectly fine, manual cars don’t even come with one
U still have m54?
You could just get an m56 with a $10,000 one time use fuel tank.
My mates has gone well over 100k and hasn't replaced vanos seals
well he is now due get him to change them I bet his car must feel down on power in low rpm unlike this one this one is like a rocket easy to do we can do it with our eyes closed
@@BMWDoctor mine too hasn't been done and it still feels quick and it's only the 2.5
TH3RAND0M CHANN3L mate you’re talking waffle 2.5 engine is slow as crap I had 325ci m sport with smg and it was SLOOOOOWWWW and I overhauled everything 330 is best if you think it’s still fairly quick you ain’t had your vanos seals done yet to actually feel what power is when you do them the whole car feels brand new and you get INSANE power
@@BMWDoctor I meant it's quick to say it's only a 2.5 and there not really that slow as far as what I can tell. With me being only 17 it would be harder for me to get insured on a 3.0 than a 2.5 aswell.
@@gavalaa2974 Bro just service your fucking VANOS. It needs it, trust me.
Very good video with an exception of "you americans"
Where in world is your brake booster bud
Delete o2 sensors lol
sounds like you need to replace everything under the hood, damn.
You do. Solid engine is irrelevant when every hose falls apart. My x5 is a constant job.
Me sitting at 144k miles🙏
Hmm there you go again why in the US do the water pumps not last the same as yours..the car is made in the same factory 😂😂
You already know why bro it’s called when they know there being shipped to the USA they send all the crap everyone talks about climate has a huge factor on the parts but let me state Australia is in the same climate even hotter then the USA and they get there cars from here and never have a problem unlike the USA ????
Don’t that show you something???
I will tell you though this is all to do with commonwealth if your not part of it you get treating like crap from what FEBI told me on the phone
They get all the trainees that make the parts and make defects send them over to you and any part that is rejected here on the quality control procedure they send to you aswell
Apparently it’s to do with your government the fact they want your parts to fail to make the parts stores more money and more revenue which means more tax for the government and each state
EVERY SINGLE M54 I have owned has been on original parts even at 170k still that’s how it is here in the U.K. and there running fine and also also this gearbox also hasn’t been serviced and still runs perfect like a Swiss watch
Do you know what Evan mate at least you see it ??? Others don’t want to see it and don’t believe me when I tell them Nathan is the only other person that knows this but as he said what can anyone do it’s how it is over there and nobody will do anything you can’t go to the dealer they laugh at you , you can’t go to bmw direct they don’t care , you can’t sue them , the government don’t care
I would HATE to own a bmw in America if I’m honest I really would and wouldn’t ever own one there I know to much
@@BMWDoctor I wouldn't go that far. My E46 has been the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned and it is a North American bmw. The biggest advantage is that Americans are afraid to own a used bmw, so they can be purchased dirt cheap. Thank you for the video keep up the great work, I have replaced nearly every part you mentioned.
@BMW Doctor Hey, could you help me with something. After watching this video my e46 started to misfire lol. It’s misfiring on cylinders 1-3. Lambda control limit bank 1. Any ideas?
Lambda sensor mate you should know E46 eat them for tea
BMW Doctor is there a way of using ista to confirm which one?
Let's face it, "Nathan" 1:07 is an OK barn mechanic who happens to know a thing or two about BMW cars... I do not dislike the guy perse but many times his recommendations come a bit self-righteous and preachy to be honest. I like more of the in-depth, pro-mechanic type aspects of your channel.
Brother I can’t agree with you on that, even tho me and Nathan have our differences me and Nathan are very good friends mate.
Regardless what happens what we say about each other we talk to each other everyday like family which we have been close now for over 2 years not a day goes by that I don’t speak to him.
Let me just explain Nathan is very very good at mechanical repairs, YES he has his beliefs of BMW like everybody on UA-cam but he’s very good at what he does.
I’m good at the computer side of things aswell the programming , coding , cloning , key programming in very very computer literate that’s why I repair cars to high standard, as I use the TOP software to diagnose and replace.
Nathan DIDN’T until he met me everyone can only do what they can and everyone is different that’s what UA-cam is about, if everyone did it the same and had the same beliefs you wouldn’t be unique and end up with your own subscribers who are different.
Everyone goes on UA-cam looking for someone with the same beliefs as them on cars, not everyone is liked and some are liked more then others
But bro me and Nathan are LITERALLY and I mean this like brothers and he does mechanical repairs that’s what he does, he isn’t computer literate BUT WHO IS !!!
he’s old school I’m the new ERA of cars and I’m teaching him and he’s slowly getting there with my helping hand AND HOPEFULLY one day will becomes just like me with the same skills as me.
@@BMWDoctor Good to hear that you and Nathan are so close. As I said on my original post, it is not that I dislike him as a person; it is very hard for me to follow his advise that, at times, comes a bit disorganized, preachy, and a tad self-righteous. He is in fact very clever when it comes to improvisation, I give him that. I'm an amateur BMW, Saab, Honda mechanic but I have a background in science. To me is easier to follow your sequences, logic and lines of explanation. Thank you for that... The other amateur BMW tech guy I like his style is The 50's Kid, who happens to be an IT expert on his "real" job...
Yes mate you are correct. He is which I’m quite shocked why he gave up UA-cam, if he’s a IT expert shouldn’t he be here doing what I do ???
But watching his videos he doesn’t seem very car tech guy, and as cars progress is quickly and it’s forever changing year after year it isnt easy to follow.
I am a IT guy myself always have been that’s how I got into what I do and I keep on learning as the days go buy to bring it to you guys.
He’s let his channel GO when he could have become massive why not use them IT skills to his advantage ??? UA-cam is the place for that BUT so is shop life meant to be a IT expert !!
But he’s the same can’t understand the newer technology of cars I hardly ever see anyone on UA-cam if I’m honest do what I do !!!
Yet all these guys are IT experts if you can write a program , develop software, code a program , write coding then bmw is easy same as Mercedes I do both of them and I can do even more cars then that.
All these people claim to be this and that but I haven’t seen them progress with it I mean shop life is still doing E46 I mean surely if these guys understood these cars electronically they would have done this ???
But then again IT & CAR ELECTRONICS especially BMW is completely different and you need to know the backdoor via the security components BUT you also have to INVEST heavily as this sort of stuff I do is NOT cheap it cost me 4K a month new programmers , licenses , its constantly changing every month every time they release a car