Fredo's 335i project

[fredo]

Back in Oct-2016 I had a loaner 2015 320i for some days. I liked it, and quietly started to look for a F30 328i. My main requirements were: red / sports package / NAV / comfort access / backup camera. I had an Autotrader search for 2012+ / 328i but very few came back within my budget. Just for fun, one day I decided to expand the search to 335i and a 2012 showed in Houston with 76k miles and good service records in Carfax. It satisfied my criteria and had these goodies too:

sun-blinds (rear glass and doors)
pdc (park distance control)
surround view
head-up display
paddle shifters

I was thinking about it for some days and decided to check it out on May 27th. My nephew took me over there (Volvo dealer). Thanks to the iDrive I noticed the brakes were due very soon, in 2k miles. The dealer has a no-haggle policy but the deal was still good for me. I pulled the trigger and came back to Austin the same day (3 hours drive). The car is very clean in and out. It feels very solid and responds very well.

Just in case, I bought an extended warranty. It's from Route 66, the Easy Street plan. My Indy recommended it, they have worked with that company before without issues. The warranty covers 4 years / 48k miles. It's bumper to bumper, just like a new car warranty.

Here are some pics from the dealer.

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[fredo]

Service recs (miles / event) :

3,488 Front brake pads replaced
10,359 Oil change

11,637 Sold as CPO to 2nd owner. CPO good until Feb-2018
17,751 Oil change
22,583 Windshield wipers & exhaust repaired

24,822 Sold to 3rd owner
34,931 Boost control solenoid replaced
47,507 Windshield wipers, oil change & inspect/replace OFHG
48,639 Drive belt(s) replaced
67,180 Oil change & drive belt tensioner pulley replaced
76,232 Oil change & replaced windshield

76,251 Sold to 4th owner (me)
76,513 F/R brakes & brake fluid flush
77,238 Spark plugs, air filter, cabin filter, windshield cowl, ET hose
77,339 AGM Group 49/94 battery
77,515 Michelin Primacy MXM4 tires
78,371 Fuel pump and oil level sensor
78,480 Exterior detail / Optimum Gloss-Coat (20-Feb-2018)
79,655 Oil change and upper radiator hose
80,186 Adjusted parking brake and looked into non-locking fuel door
80,662 Added one cup of coolant, level is up to MIN mark
81,000 Refinished rear passenger wheel (18-Jun-2018)
81,290 Extra fob key (14-Jul-2018)
81,405 Compressor, condenser, and radiator
83,713 Oil change
83,754 Valve cover, vent hose, and valvetronic seal
86,800 Exterior detail (21-Jun-2019)
87,580 Suspension refresh and brake fluid flush
89,900 Engine detail (13-Dec-2019)
89,931 Oil change
93,330 Battery 94 AGM 90 Amp
93,687 Oil change
95,821 Battery troubleshooting, brake fluid flush, cabin and air filters, windshield washer pump and hood struts
96,148 Battery troubleshooting
96,554 Battery troubleshooting
97,873 Tire rotation
100,335 Oil change and drive belt
102,093 Valvetronic troubleshooting (code 133E10), coolant return line and radiator, P/S rack repair kit
108,xxx Replaced batteries on the 2 fobs

[Vas]

Congrats.



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[BMWCurves]

Nice pick up. I am mad envious of that HUD.

[Oli77]

Very nice! This is refreshing and new. You better tell us more.

[zhpnsnv]

Good looking car and great color.


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[Johnmadd]

Love the red stitching. Very nice ride Fredo :thumbsup

[Johnmadd]

Good looking car and great color.


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Marc!

[zhpnsnv]

Marc!

I'm back! More info in a week when the deal is done.

All will be right in my world again.


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[danewilson77]

Very nice. Well done Fredo.

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[Johnmadd]

I'm back! More info in a week when the deal is done.

All will be right in my world again.


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Patiently awaiting the details.

[704sw]

Is this Melbourne Red?

I just had an F30 loaner when the X3 was in for service, and it was quite nice. The steering took some getting used to, but it's very responsive.

[az3579]

So odd to see an F30 without the xDrive badges plastered all over it. It's pretty much impossible to find a RWD F30 up in the northeast.


Is this Melbourne Red?


Yes. It's an impressive color when the sun shines on it. I never found it nearly as good in pics as it is in person. In person, it's definitely a wow color.
There are metallic flakes in it that pop when the sun's rays hit it.

[ZHPizza]

Dope color, yo. So much red throughout.

Is that a little pull out screen for the triangle glass in the back too?


Nice pick up. I am mad envious of that HUD.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/carloudy/carloudy-futuristic-head-up-display-on-your-windsh

[BMWCurves]

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/carloudy/carloudy-futuristic-head-up-display-on-your-windsh

Eh, I'm still not sold on any aftermarket HUDs. They often under emphasize the information I want like RPMs and speed, and over emphasize other, less useful information like email, Spotify, other stuff I shouldn't be checking while driving. Every review I've read has stated that car information like speed and RPMs lag behind real time at a noticeable rate. My guess is both the hardware isn't that great and there's inherent lag with having to output information from the ECU via Bluetooth to your phone and to the HUD unit. I have a feeling that you can't really beat an integrated unit for minimizing latency. I also don't like having some electronic device sit on the dash, giving someone a reason to break in. Alternatively, you could remove it each and every time you get out of the car but I'm far too lazy for that nonsense.

I understand that I must live in the automotive middle ages.

[fredo]

Is that a little pull out screen for the triangle glass in the back too?

Yes, the small glass has a screen too. Check this pic:

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[cakM3]

Car looks great, congrats fredo! :thumbsup

[fredo]

Thank you guys ! I will report back after my Indy's PPI (post purchase inspection). For sure the brakes need to be replaced on the 4 corners. BTW, this is the HUD unit on the dash.

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[az3579]

So wasn't your issue initially having too many cars? lol

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[webster]

He sold the mini, freed up space lol

[Sreten]

Great ride. Congrats Fredo :thumbup

[johnrando]

Wow, congrats!

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[fredo]

Dope color, yo. So much red throughout.



Even the fob has red on it :

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[ZHPizza]

Even the fob has red on it :

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Hah! I actually like that a lot!

[fredo]

So wasn't your issue initially having too many cars? lol


"Hi, my name is Fredo and I'm an autoholic." We ended May with 6 cars at home and are down to 4 cars now. I still plan to sell the Saab. :thumbup

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[ELCID86]

Love the red stitching. Very nice ride Fredo :thumbsup

This.

[johnrando]

:rofl. Hi Fredo!

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[AZBP2]

Congrats Fredo! Love the color man! Loaded with tech, comfort and performance. Great buy.


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[AZBP2]

BTW, next time you are in Houston let's grab a cold brew.


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[fredo]

You bet. Likewise, tell me if you visit Austin. :thumbsup

[AZBP2]

[emoji1303]


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[fredo]

I got good news yesterday about the 335i : it's CPO until Feb 2018. That was a nice surprise. :roundel

[AZBP2]

Bingo! What a bonus! [emoji1303]


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[Lorenzo]

Congratulations on the 335 F30! It's a fast car - enjoy!!!


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[johnrando]

Added bonus!

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[fredo]

Replaced F/R brakes 2 weeks ago. I asked for Akebono ceramic pads, but apparently they are not available for the F30 335i. The mechanic was able to source another ceramic brand.

My favorite feature is the Comfort Access. I like to keep the car key in my pocket at all times. Next on my wish list : extra key, spark plugs, cabin and air filters.

[John in VA]

My favorite feature is the Comfort Access. I like to keep the car key in my pocket at all times.
One of my wife's, too! We had a loaner 320 iX this week without it - I thought it would drive her nuts having to keep up with the fob!

[Sockethead]

I got good news yesterday about the 335i : it's CPO until Feb 2018. That was a nice surprise. :roundel

Use as much of that as you can! Hopefully, the high priced maintenance items like electric water pump, oil filter housing gasket, etc. will fail before it runs out

[fredo]

I like the Sport Displays feature on the iDrive. My only complaint: I need to look for it every time I start the car.

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[az3579]

I like the Sport Displays feature on the iDrive. My only complaint: I need to look for it every time I start the car.

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How useful are they really, though?

[704sw]

I like the Sport Displays feature on the iDrive. My only complaint: I need to look for it every time I start the car.

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How's the glare? My dad's E60 has a dash overhang above the iDrive which keeps it totally glare free. Some newer cars I've driven with totally exposed screens are borderline unusable at certain times of day.

[fredo]

BP, not very useful IMHO. Just part of the cool factor.

704sw, I didn't notice glare issues so far.

[az3579]

Some newer cars I've driven with totally exposed screens are borderline unusable at certain times of day.




704sw, I didn't notice glare issues so far.


I have had no issues with glare whatsoever on the numerous F30 loaner cars I've had.

[704sw]

BP, not very useful IMHO. Just part of the cool factor.

704sw, I didn't notice glare issues so far.


I have had no issues with glare whatsoever on the numerous F30 loaner cars I've had.

Good to know. The two F30 loaners I've had were both during very cloudy/rainy weather. It looked to me like they have some kind of anti-glare screen, but I couldn't really tell.

[ZacharyMikel]

Congrats on the sweet purchase! I love 335's. Someday I'd like to get my hands on a clean e90 or a newer one like yours.

[fredo]

Thanks, Zach. Me too, I would like to own an e90 335i LCI someday.

[Sockethead]

The BMWs have anti glare screens...

[fredo]

I have 2 updates. My vanity plates arrived :

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And check these BMW All Weather Sport Line mats:

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[danewilson77]

Looks great Fredo

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[fredo]

I will buy tires some time soon. I'm thinking about Michelin Primacy MXM4. They are on the Saab and I'm still happy after 35,000 miles. They have a 55,000 miles warranty.

The car came with staggered tires. I can't explain why, since the wheels are non-staggered: tires are supposed to be 225 45 R18 all around. Currently the rears are 245 45 R18. I will go 225 45 on all corners and benefit from tire rotations.

DIscount Tire will match the Tire Rack price plus shipping which comes to $910 OTD. There's a rebate going on for $70 so that brings the final price to $840.

[san]

225 seem a little too narrow IMHO. I would get 245 square, just my 0.02...


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[BMWCurves]

225 seem a little too narrow IMHO. I would get 245 square, just my 0.02...


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I'm just surprised the stock tire width on a 335i is 225.

[holyc0w]

I would be surprised too, but Mercedes had 225 and 245s on the C55 AMG.

[san]

I'm just surprised the stock tire width on a 335i is 225.

F30 with m sport package comes with the same tire sizes (225/255) as the Zhp. I knew the regular 328i comes with 225 but ya I am surprised as well that the 335i also comes with 225s...


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[fredo]

Took the car to my Indy to install : spark plugs, air filter, cabin filter, and windshield cowl. He reported one of the expansion tank hoses busted while he had the car. Work is done, I will pick it up this Monday.

[ELCID86]

Took the car to my Indy to install : spark plugs, air filter, cabin filter, and windshield cowl. He reported one of the expansion tank hoses busted while he had the car. Work is done, I will pick it up this Monday.

No DIY...?

[fredo]

No DIY...?

Nope. I'm trying to keep the economy moving.

[fredo]

I found 2 cool features: (1) the car has a hard drive to store music. It took 4 min to copy a music CD into it. (2) I folded the side mirrors before parking. They automatically unfolded after I drove half block or so.

The car is at the shop. Earlier this week the battery sounded weak. The tech verified the battery is 6 yrs old. I decided to replace it before it gets worse.

[Oli77]

Fredo, might want to update the op with info on the year of your car. Not sure if it's a 2012. Surprised the cowl would be bad.

[fredo]

Oli, you are correct. The car is a 2012. I've updated the OP. Thanks for catching that.

[Lorenzo]

I found 2 cool features: (1) the car has a hard drive to store music. It took 4 min to copy a music CD into it.

Thanks for the CD storing tip! I started loading CDs yesterday. It takes a while to store each CD, but once it's loaded, it works great.


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[fredo]

Good to hear, man.

Edit: key fob battery replaced today.

[johnrando]

Liking it?

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[fredo]

Yes. You will have chance to check it out on your next trip to TX.

[johnrando]

:thumbsup

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[fredo]

Started 2018 with 77,810 miles. CPO coverage ends next month. I will visit my Indy this month and ask for suggestions that could be done under CPO.

[fredo]

Just for fun, I waited as long as possible to put gas. The warning light was on for a couple miles. I got 299.3 miles out of the tank. Mostly city driving, maybe 100 miles were highway. The MPG was 22.

[fredo]

I scheduled an appt with the dealer on 2/8 for the fuel pump recall. I will ask them to check if any repairs can be done under CPO, which expires on 2/25.

[johnrando]

Good idea

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[Sockethead]

On our F30, I hooked up my external hard drive via the USB port on the console/armrest and had about 150 Gigs of music. I stashed the drive in the armrest. I was able to search the drive and make playlists from the car's menu. Pretty awesome. I bet your car may be able to do that too...

[san]

On our F30, I hooked up my external hard drive via the USB port on the console/armrest and had about 150 Gigs of music. I stashed the drive in the armrest. I was able to search the drive and make playlists from the car's menu. Pretty awesome. I bet your car may be able to do that too...

The one thing I wish my Zhp has is the iDrive from the f30. It’s just so easy to use and convenient.


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[derbo]

The one thing I wish my Zhp has is the iDrive from the f30. It’s just so easy to use and convenient.


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The NBT EVO iDrive is nice. :)

[Sockethead]

I think everyone has a similar interface now. I was helping a customer with her NAV in her Mazda and was almost exactly like the idrive. had her going in a few minutes.

[fredo]

Thanks, guys. My favorite feature is the comfort access.

This was done last week: replaced fuel pump (recall) and faulty oil level sensor (covered under CPO). My total cost was $50, plus I enjoyed a 2018 320i xDrive loaner for one day.

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?775-Driving-a-BMW-loaner&p=553455#post553455

[fredo]

I’m taking the car today for an exterior detail, including paint correction and Optimum Gloss-Coat. Can’t wait to see the results !

[danewilson77]

I’m taking the car today for an exterior detail, including paint correction and Optimum Gloss-Coat. Can’t wait to see the results !:waldo

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[johnrando]

Looking forward to results

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[SaltyNC]

I’m taking the car today for an exterior detail, including paint correction and Optimum Gloss-Coat. Can’t wait to see the results !

Cool. Looking forward to seeing the detail job. Did they do your plastics and your paint with Optimum Gloss-Coat? Once I get the paint corrected to where I want it, I may try a product like this. I've been using Klasse for the last few years.

BTW, I watched the The Godfather tonight, and thought about your avatar.

Salty

[fredo]

The car is ready. Due to bad weather, the shop offered to keep the car a little longer until the rain clears up. I will post additional info and pics when I get the car.

[ZHPizza]

Cool. Looking forward to seeing the detail job. Did they do your plastics and your paint with Optimum Gloss-Coat? Once I get the paint corrected to where I want it, I may try a product like this. I've been using Klasse for the last few years.

BTW, I watched the The Godfather tonight, and thought about your avatar.

Salty

I've always used Carpro Dlux for plastic -- had no idea you could use gloss coat on plastic too...


The car is ready. Due to bad weather, the shop offered to keep the car a little longer until the rain clears up. I will post additional info and pics when I get the car.

Good on them. Best practice is to give it a day or two to fully cure before exposing it to rain.

[johnrando]

Sweet!

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[fredo]

The man said Optimum Gloss-Coat was applied all around, but not on the glass. I asked specifically about the bumpers, tail lights, and head lamps. He said yes. This is what the invoice says:

"Include - wash, paint decontamination, surface preparation and application of Optimum Gloss-Coat. Also included application of a paint sealant to protect coating as it cures. Surfaces protected: paint, wheel faces, plastic, and chrome. Includes Stage One machine polishing to enhance gloss and remove light scratches."

I paid $450 OTD. I dropped the car last Friday at noon and it was ready Tuesday around 4 PM. I told him to take his time, and he did. The car looks amazing. I will post pics when possible.

[ZHPizza]

That's a great price for that much work. Can't wait to see the results!

[SaltyNC]

The car looks amazing. I will post pics when possible.

Looking forward to seeing this.

Salty

[fredo]

As promised, pics after the detail. I'm very happy with the results. I will schedule the ZHP in the next week or so.

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[Oli77]

Looks sharp as could be!

[johnrando]

+1

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[Sockethead]

Damn! That looks nice!

[SaltyNC]

Looks great, Fredo. It's so shiny, I witnessed Jehova in one shot of your car. ;)

Salty

[fredo]

Thank you, guys. And good eye, Salty ! :rofl

[fredo]

One thing I dislike about Optimum Gloss-Coat : it's a magnet for fingerprints. You can easily see the spots people (including myself) touch. I remember it was not like this before the treatment.

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[John in VA]

Perhaps it needs an additional buff now that it's warmer to remove any excess product.

[fredo]

Two updates : (1) completed one year of ownership on 5/27 and (2) had a close encounter with a Ford F-150 today. The damage was done by his tire while switching lanes. I got his insurance info (Geico). I also think PDR can do a decent job in this case.

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[3ZHP]

Two updates : (1) completed one year of ownership on 5/27 and (2) had a close encounter with a Ford F-150 today. The damage was done by his tire while switching lanes. I got his insurance info (Geico). I also think PDR can do a decent job in this case.

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Ouch! Hope it works out for you.


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[Oli77]

Shize!

[san]

Damn, sorry fredo. You might get a new wheel and tire too.


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[Phillips0417]

I don’t think PDR will work because the fender is creased. But I could be completely wrong. I have a very good friend of mine that owns a very high end body shop I can ask.

[fredo]

Thanks guys, I will report back how this ends. Phillips0417, please ask your friend for his opinion. :thumbsup

[johnrando]

Congrats on 1 year, hope it's an easy fix.

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[AZBP2]

Congrats on 1 year, hope it's an easy fix.

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Sorry to hear that and hope everything works out for the best.


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[fredo]

Looks like my claim will be denied. Geico tried multiple times to contact the truck's driver to get his version of the accident. No success, he's not cooperating. There's no witness or police report to confirm he was at fault. I took the car to my detail guy and he cleaned it very well, for free. I'm happy with the results.

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[Sockethead]

That doesn't sound fair...

[BMWCurves]

Wait, so let me get this straight: your insurance company is denying your insurance claim because they couldn’t contact the person at fault?


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[704sw]

Sorry to hear that, Fredo. Same thing happened to my dad in a Chick-fil-a parking lot. Dude totally changed his story, and claim denied. I did my best to clean it up and minimize the visual impact, but 4-5 years later he still gets fired up about it.

[Yelkos]

Same thing happened to my wife's Audi in commuter parking lot
a good Painless guy can fix that. cost me $900.00 (Ins Deductible is $1,500 )
Insurance company said to many people claim they were hit in a parking lot when they actually did the damage themselves. So its considered an "At Fault" accident.
here is before and after3320533206

[san]

Damn that sucks. Is there no point going to the cops now to submit an official complaint?


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[Sockethead]

When Kristen got sideswiped by a tractor trailer. We called the cops right away and filed a report. They never found the truck but insurance covered it, I imagine because we had a police report

[Oli77]

Dang! how can they deny your claim? you pay them to cover you except for fender benders? You need covering so what is their job exactly?

[fredo]

Thanks for the kind words, guys.


That doesn't sound fair...

I'm with you.


Wait, so let me get this straight: your insurance company is denying your insurance claim because they couldn’t contact the person at fault?

My insurance is Allstate. The other driver has Geico. I presented a claim with Geico and they will decline it because they need the other driver's version of the accident. I understand it's not Geico's fault. It really is the driver's fault for not cooperating. Still not happy about it.


Same thing happened to my wife's Audi in commuter parking lot
a good Painless guy can fix that. cost me $900.00 (Ins Deductible is $1,500 ) .

Amazing results. I have an estimate of $325 for PDR. I'm hesitant to go that route, because one PDR shop (the best in town) told me they could not fix it due to the location of the damage. But looking at your pics I have hope now.


Damn that sucks. Is there no point going to the cops now to submit an official complaint?


Not sure. Three weeks passed already.


Dang! how can they deny your claim? you pay them to cover you except for fender benders? You need covering so what is their job exactly?

I contacted Allstate. I can present a claim with them. My deductible is $1,000 and the accident would show on my record. So that option doesn't look very appealing.

[Yelkos]

Fredo, check out this YouTube link of my car from the PDR guy. He was concerned about the aluminum fenders memory but you can see the results,
took him about 6-7 hours to work it out. well worth not having to repaint

https://youtu.be/sgDu-vI1HNo

[johnrando]

Sux Fredo. Glad you got it taken care of.

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[ELCID86]

Sorry Fredo. I’d be curious how any PDR could get that to 100% b/c of location. It may be worth a try. Especially if they offer a money back (or “no pay unless perfect” guarantee).

[fredo]

Fredo, check out this YouTube link of my car from the PDR guy. He was concerned about the aluminum fenders memory but you can see the results, took him about 6-7 hours to work it out. well worth not having to repaint

https://youtu.be/sgDu-vI1HNo

Amazing results, Yelkos. Thank you for sharing the video. :thumbup

[fredo]

Sorry Fredo. I’d be curious how any PDR could get that to 100% b/c of location. It may be worth a try. Especially if they offer a money back (or “no pay unless perfect” guarantee).

It won’t hurt to ask. I appreciate the advise.

[fredo]

Not a good summer for the 335. The AC compressor failed. That will be a $700 repair. The ZHP is on DD duties for now.

[fredo]

I'm getting the parts needed to repair the A/C. And check this: I ordered the condenser from FCP Euro yesterday at 10:30 AM. The box arrived today at 3:30 PM. It was shipped from TX but I'm still very impressed. Oh, and I selected the free shipment BTW. :thumbsup

Edit: Well, my Indy said the condenser is the wrong part. I would happily wait some extra days and receive the correct part. Not cool ... No pun intended.

[johnrando]

Love fast free shipping

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[cakM3]

Very nice fredo!!


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[AZBP2]

[emoji1360][emoji1360]


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[fredo]

I'm getting the parts needed to repair the A/C. And check this: I ordered the condenser from FCP Euro yesterday at 10:30 AM. The box arrived today at 3:30 PM. It was shipped from TX but I'm still very impressed. Oh, and I selected the free shipment BTW. :thumbsup



My Indy said the condenser is the wrong part. I would happily wait some extra days and receive the correct part. Not cool ... No pun intended.

[fredo]

AC is finally fixed! I got my car back today. It spent 2 weeks at the shop. They sent to a body shop first, to fix the gas door which didn't close properly. Then, waited for correct condenser to arrive. Lastly, they found the radiator was leaking and I agreed to replace it.

:roundel

[danewilson77]

Woot!

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[ELCID86]

Still hot down yonder, I’m sure. Glad you got it sorted Fredo.

[johnrando]

Saw an ad on a billboard in Dallas. It said,

You're wife is still hot...
Get your A/C fixed.

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[Sockethead]

Saw an ad on a billboard in Dallas. It said,

You're wife is still hot...
Get your A/C fixed.


:rofl :thumbup

[fredo]

Car is back to DD status. It spent 6 weeks or so parked on my driveway, the ZHP grabbed the garage spot.

[fredo]

Two issues to report : (1) Blown speaker on the passenger front door. I assumed the sound was supposed to slowly deteriorate, but not in this case. For now, I'm only listening to the left speakers until I have chance to troubleshoot some more.

(2) The valve cover is leaking. The car has 84k miles. At first, I could smell burning oil. Then smoke from the engine compartment started to show. I have an appt to replace the valve cover on Monday Feb-18. I stopped driving the car until then.

[Oli77]

Good, these are pretty minor issues. Blown speaker is strange. It sounds weird or rattles?

[fredo]

Rattle is a good word to describe the noise. Sadly, the valve cover replacement is $1,100 (parts and labor). :crying

[DeathTrap]

Yep, direct injection problems...One of my FB friends has a Chevy Cruze that she spent over 1k+ for a VC gasket.

[Oli77]

Didn't realize a direct injection vcg was that much more involved or different of a job.

[az3579]

Yep, direct injection problems...One of my FB friends has a Chevy Cruze that she spent over 1k+ for a VC gasket.


Didn't realize a direct injection vcg was that much more involved or different of a job.

Are you talking about valve covers or valve cover gaskets? I can see a valve cover costing a lot, but a valve cover gasket is relatively trivial.
Fredo said he has to replace the valve cover. It sure is an expensive part from BMW (over $400-500).

[Oli77]

Are you talking about valve covers or valve cover gaskets? I can see a valve cover costing a lot, but a valve cover gasket is relatively trivial.
Fredo said he has to replace the valve cover. It sure is an expensive part from BMW (over $400-500).

My bad, didn't realize the emphasis on the valve cover. Couldn't wrap my head around a quote this high for a VCG. I know why now.
Carry on

[danewilson77]

Two issues to report : (1) Blown speaker on the passenger front door. I assumed the sound was supposed to slowly deteriorate, but not in this case. For now, I'm only listening to the left speakers until I have chance to troubleshoot some more.

(2) The valve cover is leaking. The car has 84k miles. At first, I could smell burning oil. Then smoke from the engine compartment started to show. I have an appt to replace the valve cover on Monday Feb-18. I stopped driving the car until then.An appointment? What is this appointment crap you speak of?

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[DeathTrap]

Didn't realize a direct injection vcg was that much more involved or different of a job.


Are you talking about valve covers or valve cover gaskets? I can see a valve cover costing a lot, but a valve cover gasket is relatively trivial.
Fredo said he has to replace the valve cover. It sure is an expensive part from BMW (over $400-500).

Mainly because the injectors also have to be removed. I just had to double check that they are mounted on the VC for the N54/55 motors and they are.

Honestly, I think my friend, well not friend more like previous associate, just got shafted. I tried to do a search on that generation motor, but I lost interest.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7922/47052816561_923beca6da.jpg

[fredo]

An appointment? What is this appointment crap you speak of?

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Well, my Indy asked to be notified in advance when I plan to drop off the car. I said Monday Feb 18 because that's a holiday (presidents day) and I will be off from work.

[danewilson77]

Well, my Indy asked to be notified in advance when I plan to drop off the car. I said Monday Feb 18 because that's a holiday (presidents day) and I will be off from work.Lol.... No problem my friend

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[fredo]

Valve cover replaced. Mafia member GeorgeH took care of it. I had 4 estimates, his was the best one. George also replaced 2 other parts (vent hose and valvetronic seal) the other shops didn't mention. I knew my F30 was in good hands thanks to all his experience: 14 years at the local BMW dealer. Very nice guy, he promptly answered all my questions. We had chance to talk about his cars (e46 touring, M3, ZHP, among others).

In summary: I'm very happy with this visit. Many thanks, George ! :thumbsup

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[Oli77]

Looks right clean!

Is that what direct inject looks like?

[fredo]

Thanks, Oli. I believe that's correct. :roundel

[johnrando]

Good stuff

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[GeorgeH]

Valve cover replaced. Mafia member GeorgeH took care of it. I had 4 estimates, his was the best one. George also replaced 2 other parts (vent hose and valvetronic seal) the other shops didn't mention. I knew my F30 was in good hands thanks to all his experience: 14 years at the local BMW dealer. Very nice guy, he promptly answered all my questions. We had chance to talk about his cars (e46 touring, M3, ZHP, among others).

In summary: I'm very happy with this visit. Many thanks, George ! :thumbsup

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I appreciate the kind words Fredo, thanks for giving me the opportunity. :)



Looks right clean!

Is that what direct inject looks like?

Oli, yes. What you are looking at there is the spark plug and injector well for cyl #1 & #2. The small circle is the top of the injector and the large 'T' is the hold down bracket. The electrical connection is hard to see off to the side at the 7-8 o'clock location.

[RUS_ZHP]

It's soo clean, like a brand new car.
Well done.

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[fredo]

Thanks. The car sits at 84k miles and has 7 documented oil changes.

[derbo]

Hows the intake manifold look? Have you walnut blasted yet?

[fredo]

So far, no walnut blast. George, do you have comments about the intake manifold ? :dunno

[fredo]

Washed the car and adjusted the equalizer settings. I followed a guideline from the F30 forum, very happy with the results. Next on my list, update the NAV maps to 2019.

[fredo]

This Memorial Day weekend sets 2 years of F30 ownership. The odometer passed 86k miles today, that's almost 10k miles after my purchase. I can see a suspension refresh in the near future. Besides that, the car runs great.

[Oli77]

You are going to DIY the suspension?

[fredo]

Negative, I will take it to the shop.

[fredo]

I got a "free" exterior detail (clay, polish, sealant) last week. This is how: when I bought the F30 it came with an Appearance Protection plan. I didn't want it, but it was already included in the price. Last month, I started a claim because the paint had water spots. The company agreed to pay for the exterior detail, now the water spots are gone.

I paid $500 for 2 plans: Appearance and Alloy Wheel Protection. I got the detail and 2 curb rash repairs in return.

[Oli77]

Call that a win.

[fredo]

+1. I say most people will not open a claim and just waste the $500. The protection plan is good for 2 years.

[fredo]

Big update: the suspension was refreshed at 87k miles. I went with Koni FSD (Frequency Selective Damping). These are the parts installed:

Shock Kit Koni FSD
31126855743 Thrust Rod Bush, F30
31336787114 Low Spring Pad, F30
31306868240 Strut Mnt Gskt, F30
33506866038 Shock Mnt Gskt
33536855439 Bump Stop, F30
31306880438 Strut Mount, F30
33506862725 Rear Shock Mount
31336857729 Bump Stop, Frt
31306863134 Strut Mount Bolt
31306792211 Sway Bar Link, Frt
31306791712 Up Spring Pad, F30

*** Koni FSD has been replaced with Koni SA (Special Active)

Mafia member GeorgeH completed the job. He didn't change the stock springs. Koni FSD specifically requires to keep the stock springs.

The car has the option "S2VFA Adaptive M suspension" also known as EDC (Electronic Damper Control). Koni FSD is a non-EDC set and it required coding to remove the EDC out of the car. George coordinated with Joe @ TopGearSolutions for remote coding. TopGear is a sponsor on the bimmerpost forums with good reviews. I was told next time I visit the dealer, they may update the software on my car and this would require coding to remove the EDC again.

So far I drove 300 miles and I'm very happy with the results. The clunking noises are gone. If I could use one word to describe how the car feels, it would be "luxury". The ride is not harsh at all. The car feels smooth on the road but it doesn't feel floaty. My wife drove the car afterwards and she didn't complain. I believe Koni FSD is one step above the factory setup. But I bought my car with 76k miles so I can't tell for sure.

George, I appreciate your time and efforts on this one. You did lots of research and troubleshooting. Thank you !

[ZHPizza]

Fsd ftw errytim

[RUS_ZHP]

Nice Fredo! Glad to hear that members are helping you.

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[johnrando]

Nice! Family helping family.

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[GeorgeH]

Thanks for the accolades Alfredo, that was a fun project and I'm sold on the outcome, I'll be putting FSDs on a car in the future for sure.

[fredo]

Last month we drove the 335i to Rockport TX on 2 different occasions. It was around 800 miles total. The car runs like a champ.

So far this year, only an oil change was done back in February. Current miles are 91,500.

[johnrando]

:thumbsup

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[fredo]

2021 update : replaced battery on May. The shop also recommended this :

- Vehicle check with filter service due
- Brake fluid flush coming up soon
- Hood support struts weak
- Windshield washer pump failed
- Strut rod bushings cracking, minor

I've added the above to my "to-do" list. Car has 94k miles.

[johnrando]

[emoji1360]

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[fredo]

I bought the 335 exactly 5 years ago: 2017 Memorial Day weekend. The car sits at 97,650 miles and 21,400 are mine. So I'm adding 4,300 per year approx. She has been good to me. The most unexpected repair was the A/C compressor at 81k miles.

[johnrando]

Happy belated car-a-versary!

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[fredo]

Thank you, Boss !

[fredo]

Brought the car to Discount Tire for tire balance and rotation. For $41 they also replaced the wiper blades. The brand is TricoPro+.

That was very convenient, I saved a trip to Autozone.

[Oli77]

I have those wipe blades and they work very well (at least in the city). Not sure what their performance would be like at 70 mph.

[John in VA]

I have those wipe blades and they work very well (at least in the city). Not sure what their performance would be like at 70 mph.
It's a beam-style blade like most these days - will probably be fine, especially due to the VorTec® aerofoil & HighGlide® treated rubber!

[fredo]

I got the check engine light yesterday. The code was:

P0456 Fuel tank ventilation system and purge air system, micro-leak: Leakage larger than 0.5 mm

It shows every now and then:

Sep-2019 at 87,500 miles
Dec-2019 at 89,700 miles
Aug-2022 at 99,600 miles

I cleared the code, let's see when it shows again.

[johnrando]

GL!

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[fredo]

10 years in the making.

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[san]

Nice!
Here’s to many more!


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[Oli77]

Good catch! You took the pic at the gas station after a refill? Great timing!

[fredo]

Thank you, guys. I did reset the miles to get some extra zeros in the pic.

[fredo]

My Dad and I went to Houston yesterday. It was 338 miles round trip and the car computed 32.2 mpg. I'm very happy with that number. Current miles are 105,538.

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[Oli77]

Look at you driving 65 mph Fredo. Saving on gas and all that. That is nice.

[fredo]

Look at you driving 65 mph Fredo. Saving on gas and all that. That is nice.

The average speed includes city driving. I was driving at 80+ mph on the highway. :thumbsup

[Oli77]

Gangster style!

[cakM3]

The average speed includes city driving. I was driving at 80+ mph on the highway. :thumbsup

That's pretty good mpg fredo! :thumbsup

[fredo]

The F30 has 111k miles on the clock as of today. She runs like a champ!

I've noticed oil consumption on this N55 engine. Looks like a quart of oil goes missing every 7k miles or so.

[Oli77]

Good to hear about the strong genes in the car.