E36 328i Coupe - advice needed

[yertis]

My wife has defected to BMW and we're test driving a '99 328i tomorrow. So far I've deduced that I need to call a main dealer with the VIN to talk about VANOS and Nikasil issues and their position should a problem arise.

The only other issue that seems to need immediate attention is tyres - it has one P6000, one Fulda and a couple something-elses. We're budgeting to put a new set on and I'm looking for recommendations.

Also, how do the service indictor lights work? I need to know how far we're off a major service.

Finally, with ref to the above, which are the recommended specialists along the west-country part of the M4 corridor?

[dazren]

When I had my seven series I used "Clayton Cars" in Ashtongate from 1995 to when I sold it in january 2002. Very happy with their technical knowledge, fitting in no notice emergency work etc.

DAZ

[Bodo]

yertis said:

Also, how do the service indictor lights work? I need to know how far we're off a major service.

Have a look here:
www.circlebmw.com/service/servind.html

[dannybmw]

Goodyear f1 are good tyres they wear well and are grippy . good for when yor trying to lose the Try some different ones out and see what you think try to have the same brands front and back the last thing you want is cheap and nasty ones on the back not fun in the rain . happy hunting . Dan

[agent006]

I seem to remember there being discussions about Dunlop 8000 or 9000 solving lots of dodgy handling traits on some high 3 series coupes. Might be worth a trawl through the archives.

edit: SP9000 Tramlining issue. Most seem to have them fitted as standard anyway.


>> Edited by agent006 on Sunday 24th August 17:28

[andrewh]

If all the green lights on the service indicator are lit you should get around 8000 miles until it needs a service or inspection.

[xm5er]

No Nicasil problems with a 99 model, it had the cast iron bore. Not heard of any Vanos problems either on that particular model.

[masopa]

I run my M3 on Eagle F1s. Excellent grip, even in the wet. Some poeople running Michelin's have experienced scary moments in the wet, but other than that, they have good press too (although I think come out a little more expensive than the Goodyears).

[hughjayteens]

My M3 GT has Avon ZZ1s on which are made form Bakelite, so I am fitting some Pirelli P Zeros later this week - will let you know how they feel.

[woogie]

Had michelin Pilots on mine which were excellent, changed to Pirelli P zeros and they were terrible, weared too much and didnt grip in the wet. The Michellins cost more but lasted twice as long. Sold it recently though to buy an S2000...bit more fun !!!!