Case Studies

A Collection of the Odd, Unusual and Interesting Found While Servicing Our Client Vehicles.

Originally intended as a showcase for customers of our workshop and staff’s abilities, this page has evolved in an interesting and informative teaching tool, and one of the most popular pages on our site!

By nature, these are rather extreme examples of failures, and not what we typically find during service. Our goal at Atlantic Motorcar is to prevent these from happening to you and your car. But rest assured, if we can fix these challenges, regular maintenance is breeze!

We like to call this our “YES WE CAN!” page. You can also view many of these concerns on our Facebook page. Each photo can be enlarged by clicking on it.

BMW Electric Water Pump Failure – How, Why, and What To Prevent

Case Studies

What

This BMW 540 has was diagnosed with a defective engine coolant pump. Symptoms were overheating and damaged drive belt system. Disassembly of the front cover and removal of the water pump allowed for inspection of the pump.

How
The mode of failure with this pump appears to be simple age and miles, likely exasperated by a lack of coolant changes. The bearing failed on the pump, allowing the plastic impeller to contact the aluminum housing, you can see the growing on the surface. Finally the plastic impeller itself failed, the vehicle overheated, and came to a stop. As the water pump impeller is made from a plastic material, the plastic becomes brittle with age and extended immersion in the hot engine coolant, sometimes simply cracks apart, even without a bearing failure. The defective pump, and pieces of the failed impeller, are on the left side of the photo, the new pump on the right.

Prevent
On these water pumps, we suggest replacement at the 80,000 mile interval. Failure usually occurs very soon after the car hits this milage mark. There is a better pump available, we use one with a metal, rather than plastic impeller. When replacing any cooling system part for an overheating concern, it is very important to replace the engine thermostat at the same time, the thermostats are almost certainly damaged from the overheating, and it inexpensive insurance to do so. As you can see from the photos, it is a bit of a process to access the pump, so be sure to always replace the drive belt and tensioner at the same time.

Aside from protecting from freezing, antifreeze also contains lubricants for the water pump bearing, as well as corrosion inhibitors, unfortunately both of these fade with time, and must be renewed with a coolant flush. As this car is an aluminum alloy engine, it is always a good policy to flush the cooling system at least every three years, and to use a quality antifreeze with corrosion inhibiters.

Final
Not a simple repair, yes, but one, if done correctly, will last another 100,000 miles. That’s our goal with BMW, and other autos here, fix it right the first time, and prevent problems from happening in the first place. 30 years of service experience have well taught us that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Be cured, once and for all, and give us a call, we’re happy to answer any service questions you might have on your BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Lexus, Volvo or Volkswagen.

Earning your trust, every time you turn the car…that’s what we do…every day…for the last 30 years. Click here see what our happy customers have to say about us and our service at AMC Customer Reviews.

If you have questions, or if we can be of further assistance, just call us at (207) 882-969, we’d love to meet you, and your car!

Warmly,
Bruce and the AMC Service Team

 

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Electrical Issues – Telling Simple From Not

Case Studies

This vehicle was sent to us by another repair shop with the concern that it did not start, or would only start intermittently. The battery, starter, and finally the key switch were replaced in an attempt to get it to start. In fact, the starter was replaced twice. Then it was towed to our workshop.

Mystery?
Had the battle is recreating the problem, which it did here. Mystery? Not really for the Atlantic Motorcar Service Team, we see these cars day in and day out, we specialize in knowing, not just guessing. And when you do the same thing again and again, you become very skilled at it, and know exactly what to look for.

In this case, a badly corroded engine ground strap. See the photos? That’s the first thing we check, rather than just replacing parts. In fact, the ground strap issue can create some other problems as the electricity looks for a way to complete it’s path through the circuit with the damaged ground strap. Earlier this year we had a vehicle in which the ECM (engine computer) was damaged because of what I suspect to be a ground strap issue.

The Difference
Happy customers come back, and they bring their friends, and we make them happy, and they bring more friends. That’s the formula we’re worked on for the last 33 years. Knowledge, Integrity, Trust, those words are what each and every AMC customer deserves, and that’s what every customer gets.

There are many ethical and knowledge shops out there, judge by the reviews online, by meeting the service team, by asking friends. If you’re outside of our area (we cover Falmouth, Freeport to Camden), call and ask for a referral to one of our service network members. Your car, and your pocketbook will thank you. And so will the AMC Team.

Feel free to call or stop by find out more on how we can help you get your car back to the condition you both deserve! Earning your trust, every time you turn the car…that’s what we do…every day…for the last 30 years.

Click here see what our happy customers have to say about us and our service at AMC Customer Reviews.
If you have questions, or if we can be of further assistance, just call us at (207) 882-969, we’d love to meet you, and your car!

Warmly,
Bruce and the AMC Service Team

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5 Reasons Your Check Engine Light May Be On (And How To Prevent It)

Case Studies

Understandably, most car owners dread the moment when the check engine light pops up on the dashboard. This is even scarier when they are on the highway or driving over long distances.

Simple fact is, the light can be attributed to a number of issues.

Most often it’s typically not an emergency or big repair. At Atlantic Motorcar Center or other qualified specialists,  can be able to diagnose the problem rather easily.

Since the mid 1990s, most modern day vehicles, Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Mini Cooper, PorscheVolvo and VW, along with others, have on-board diagnostic systems that aid in identifying the particular issue that caused the light to pop up. Let’s take a look at the most common problems. We use the factory diagnostic commuter, in this case, the XNTRY Mercedes diagnostic computer, that connects to your car’s network to quickly and accurately identify faults. We then provide you with a full report, and estimate.

I. Replace Oxygen Sensor. This is the part that monitors the unburden oxygen from the exhaust and controls how much fuel is burned. A faulty sensor can’t provide the right data therefore causing a decrease in gas mileage.

Most cars have between 2-4 oxygen sensors and the code will tell you which one needs replacing. A sensor becomes faulty when it’s covered with too much oil ash and loses its ability to change oxygen and fuel mixture. A failed up oxygen sensor can lead to a damaged catalytic converter which costs in excess of $2000.

II. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap. The gas cap is the most common cause of check engine light popping up. When it’s seal is loose or cracked up, it then it allows fuel vapour to escape and can crate a fault in the fuel system.

This failure increases emissions and reduces gas mileage. When it indicates that the gas cap is faulty, pull over and retighten it. Examine the cap for any cracks or worn out edges. Continue driving for about 20 minutes and monitor if the engine light goes off. A typical gas cap costs about $20-25, at at any sign of cracking of the seal, the cap should be replaced, but be sure to use a factory part. A loose gas cap may not be risky but it leads to higher emissions, and can present a safety problem.

III. Malfunctioned Catalytic Convertor. The job of a catalytic convertor is to reduce exhaust gases. It converts carbon monoxide and other toxic substances in fuel into harmless compounds. If it’s faulty or failing, the gas mileage reduces significantly. Most catalytic convertors stay in top shape through regular maintenance, which is why a Check Engine light should never be ignored, but diagnosed promptly.

However, they can become damaged because of rusty spark plugs, or broken oxygen sensors etc. When it stops functioning the harmful gases will pass out through the exhaust into the environment. When a catalytic convertor fully deteriorates then it’s time to replace it.

IV. Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor. This device tells the car computer to add the needed amount of fuel based on the air coming through to the car engine. That’s why when it’s faulty the emissions will increase, the gas mileage will decrease, and the car may stall.

This is one of the reasons the engine light pops up on the dashboard. The mass airflow sensor usually fails when the air filter is not replaced, damaged through improper service, or when it wears out.

V. Faulty Spark Coils and Wires. Another reason the engine light might pop up is because of spark plugs and ignition coils. The spark plug seals the combustion chamber and provides the spark for initiating combustion in your engine. When they are worn and failing, often around 60,000 miles, they begin to misfire.

This problem is often marked by a little jolt when you start accelerating. Older spark plugs can be replaced after 60k miles while the newer ones can go a little longer. Still, plugs fail over time and there is little you can do about it.

Finally
Questions, or if we can be of help in any way with service on your Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini Cooper, Porsche, Volvo, VW or other European (and now Japanese) import, please contact us.
Our team of Service Specialists are here to help, for even the newest autos! (207) 882-9969.

Knowing, not just “doing”, that’s the Atlantic Motorcar Center way of life.
Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

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Rear Fog Lights – Truth and Fiction

Case Studies
Rear Fog Light Switch – Volvo

Intent and Design
For the new owner of a European auto, the rear fog light is often a source of great mystery, chances are they’ve never seen it before on their domestic car or truck. A common question we are asked is “Why does my European car have only one fog light”.
Or an equally common question, “I think I have a rear fog light out, only the driver’s side seems to work.”

While not common in the U.S., rear fog lights are mandatory in Europe, and are especially common on German and Swedish autos. Typically, the rear fog light is a bright red light that is the same brightness as your brake lights. In Europe, two rear fog lights are common, but in the United States, this is not currently allowed. Why does the United States not allow dual rear fog lights? I’ve heard a number of reasons, the most common answer is so drivers don’t mistake your two rear fog lights for brake lights. The reasoning seems to be that in foggy conditions, an overtaking driver might mistake the dual rear fog lights as the car in front of him as brake lights, then hit his own brakes, creating a potential for a rear collision.

Rear Fog Light In Overtaking/Passing

Purpose
The job of the rear fog lamp is to reveal the position of your vehicle when driving in the fog, snow or other conditions that limit visibility. Your normal taillights are fairly dim, so they are not as likely be seen in foggy weather. Rear fog lights are often placed on the left side of the vehicle, to help mark the corner of the car when vehicles behind are overtaking (passing) it. This bight light (looks like a brake light on) lets other drivers know approximately where the vehicle is located in a travel lane. Like the fog lights on the front of your car help make you more visible to oncoming traffic, rear fog lights make you more visible to people behind you. There are several types of rear fog lights. Some take xenon or halogen headlight bulbs, but other rear fog lamps are made up of LED lights. LED lights are bright, long lasting and common on newer vehicles with rear lamps.

Rear Fog Light – Volvo

Example
In the case of the 2016 Volvo S60, pictured here, a couple rear lights illuminate when you push the button, making the Volvo much easier to spot on the highway in the fog and other poor conditions. Volvo lights are one of the most common examples of rear fog lights. The rear fog lamp is a useful safety feature, but issues arise when drivers are unaware of the feature and switch on the fog lights in normal driving conditions. Sure, you might get a little extra forward road illumination, but you’re also unknowingly blinding drivers behind you and sometimes even making them think you’re braking. Therefore, these optional fog lights should not be used as normal driving lights. If your vehicle has rear fog lights, only switch them on when you are driving in fog, snow or other conditions that may prevent another driver from seeing your vehicle.

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Classic Mercedes Benz Coupe – Back On The Road

Case Studies

Knowledge, Integrity, Trust

Classic Mercedes Benz, returning customer.
He also owns the “Cold War” Benz we mechanically restored last fall, that was one of the most enjoyable and rewarding projects I’ve been involved in during my 30+ years of German auto service. Until now.

Then this car comes along. This visit was the resurrection of his beloved 1971 Mercedes 250 Coupe. There really is a very special character to these cars, you have to see to fully appreciate. The attention to detail was remarkable, and this example is very, very original.

AMC Classic Mercedes ServiceStudy In Contrasts
AMC Master Tech “Big Nick” makes easy work of Mercedes oil cooler seals, while Master Tech Kyle is in the background busy with another Mercedes, a classic 250C coupe.

Yes, the Mercedes CDI oil cooler really is located in the middle of the engine, we asked the same question “Why” as well. Unfortunately we don’t design cars, we just service and repair them.

Repair Or Replace
It’s not always about bolting new parts on. In some cases, like this classic Mercedes Benz, we’d much prefer to repair, than replace. That sounds a little old school perhaps, but often different is better.

AMC Classic Mercedes ServiceSee the crack in this mounting bracket for the air conditioning compressor? Chances are its not going to be easy to find for this vintage auto. But why bother, and wait days or weeks for a part, when in less than an hour, we can MIG weld, then finish and paint it, making it look like new.

That’s our thinking and our capabilities here at AMC, if it needs a new part, we’ve likely got it on hand. If on the other hand, we can repair it, saving our customer time, and money, and provide a long lasting repair, why not?

Of course, it’s always our customer’s choice, we believe in making them our partner in the service process. Our 35+ of service experience allow us to offer our customers some service savings that you just don’t commonly find today.

Old School
When was the last time you saw a set like these? Vintage Zenith carburetors. German automotive design at it’s finest.
Though we’re equipped to service even the newest autos, it’s a welcome contrast to go old school sometimes.

I’m immensely grateful and blessed by the trust folks put in us, every day. Be it a classic Benz or the average daily driver, each and every customer, and each and every car, matters deeply to us.

I personally feel that we are caretakers of these wonderful metal and leather works of art for future generations. In the meantime we get to meet some of the most interesting folks. 👍

Respectfully,
Bruce and the AMC Team

 

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Mercedes Oil Cooler Seals, 642 Diesel Engine Cause And Correction

Case Studies

If you own a Mercedes with a BlueTEC diesel engine, you may have heard quite a bit about the oil cooler leaks that have plagued some models. It is in fact quite a common issue with many of the BlueTEC diesel Mercedes. If  like many of the owners out there, you are probably left with a lot of questions and wondering things like, “Which BlueTEC engines have oil cooler leaks?”, and “What are the signs of a leaking oil cooler?” That’s where the Atlantic Motorcar Center comes in. You see, we’re professionals in Mercedes service, after 33 years, we know these cars, inside and out. So we can clear up that confusion for you in this no-nonsense, straightforward post that you can reference. First, let’s cover a little basic information about what’s going on.

Cause
Let me first state that these engines are excellent in design (aside from the cooler seals), are very, very durable, produce excellent power, and are one of the best diesel engines we service. Once the oil cooler seals are updated, you’ll enjoy a very long life from the engine. So don’t be discouraged, or avoid, just be aware during purchase, and anticipate that this is not an “if” but rather a “when” repair.

As we mentioned above, engine oil cooler leaks are a common issue with certain Mercedes BlueTEC diesel cars. Specifically, the Mercedes “3.0 liter V6 diesel” engines, designated with the engine code “OM642”, also known as the “642 diesel”. These engines are used in a wide range of models over several years. Mercedes has issued a “TSB”, or “technical service bulletin”, relating to this exact issue and the proper repair procedure to correct it. Over the years, we’ve noted that an inordinate amount of 642 engines developed leaks from the oil cooler seals. On disassembly, we noted that these seals had degraded prematurely due the significant amount of heat they are exposed to. The oil cooler itself is positioned in the center of the “V” of the engine (see photos), towards the back of the engine compartment. As all engines, both gasoline and diesel, create heat while running, but the Diesel engines, due to the high compression radio, and the unique way these engines operate, they create a LOT of heat. The location of the oil cooler’s thermally insulated location on the engine under intake plumbing and so forth, prevents easy air cooling and heat exchange, and the original oil cooler seals simply fail prematurely.

Often Misdiagnosed
The source of the oil leak is all too often misdiagnosed in workshops that are not famualr wth Mercedes, and needlesss parts are replaced, without correction or resolution of the oroigoanl problem. So when these services or maintenance tasks are being done at a shop that doesn’t specialize in Mercedes Benz repair, it is very common for the technician or do-it-yourselfer to incorrectly identify the source as a leaky rear main seal (which typically presents in an apparently similar way), leading to costly and unnecessary repairs that don’t solve the problem. As as experienced Mercedes specialist shop we immediately recognize the true culprit, or at the very least know to check the oil cooler for leaks prior to making any recommendations to the customer, potentially saving you thousands of dollars.

Correction
So what is the fix for keeping those oil leaks from reappearing as quickly as they occurred the first time? If the problem is seals that can’t stand the heat that they are exposed to everyday, is there any point to replacing them for another inadequate set of seals? Fortunately, Mercedes-Benz solved the issue in 2010 by updating those parts and now the only approved, effective solution is to replace those old seals with the new ones, made of an entirely different material called “Viton” rubber that is far better suited to the application, resists heat degradation better than the original rubber, and last far longer than the original seals. You can see the two parts in the image below, comparing an old, red/orange rubber seal with the new, superior Viton rubber seals which are purple. It is these purple seals that Mercedes adopted and are now the factory standard part.

Teamwork
Teamwork is what we are all about here at AMC, you don’t get just one of us, you get over dozen folks working together to make it happen for you, and your car.

How We Can Help
At Atlantic Motorcar we’ve developed some very specific procedures and tooling, combined with our expect technicians, to make this otherwise onerous repair a snap. Well, maybe not a “snap”, hard to call a day + of labor a snap, let’s just say that we make it flow very, very smoothly. And we warranty every repair for 2 Years, Nationwide, double the warranty of most new car dealers.

Not a simple repair, yes, but one, if done correctly, will last several years. That’s our goal with Mercedes, and other autos here, fix it right the first time, and prevent problems from happening in the first place. 30 years of service experience have well taught us that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Be cured, once and for all, and give us a call, we’re happy to answer any service questions you might have on your Audi, BMW, InfinitiMercedes, Lexus, Volvo or Volkswagen.

Earning your trust, every time you turn the car…that’s what we do…every day…for the last 30 years.
Click here see what our happy customers have to say about us and our service at AMC Customer Reviews.

Finally
Questions, or if we can be of help in any way with service on your Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini Cooper or other European (and now Japanese) import, please contact us. Our team of Service Specialists are here to help, for even the newest autos! (207) 882-9969.

Knowing, not just “doing”, that’s the Atlantic Motorcar Center way of life.
Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

 

 

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Mercedes CLK and SLK – Power Top Problem and Repair Service

Case Studies
Screen Shot 2016-02-04 at 2.29.48 PM
Mercedes with the Vario Top

History
The classic Mercedes SL chassis (aside from being Bruce’s favorite car ever) also know as the SL300, SL500, SLK, and CLK has to be one of the most amazing cars from a electromechanical technology standpoint. First released in 1989 (129 chassis) and are still in current production. The R129 replaced the R107 SL-Class in 1989 and was in its turn replaced by the R230 in 2003 (US). The R129 was produced as a two-door roadster with an automated (electro-hydraulic) textile tonneau cover. All R129s came standard with an detachable hardtop that could fitted by folding the canvas roof down and manually attaching it. 

Vario 2 Mercedes Cylinder
Vario 2 Mercedes Cylinder

The Problem
The technology which makes these cars cool, is unfortunately the technology which can be their undoing. With some of the earlier cars nearly a quarter century of use, the top hydraulics have become one of the weak points in an otherwise rock solid auto. Still, I can’t imagine that Mercedes ever anticipated that these hydraulic systems would still be functioning some 10-20 years later, and it’s only a testimony to their superb German engineering that most still are.

How Not To Fix
You’ll see a number of “snake oil” repairs out there for this problem, additives to “swell” the seals, “new” seals to try to install in your old cylinders (problem is the rams are also often worn, which new seals do not correct), techniques to try and “tighten down” the cylinder caps, you name it. None are a lasting fix, few even begin to provide any even short term correction, and ALL ultimately cost you much more in the end, when the very expensive pump motor fails, or the hydralic fluid leaks and ruins your car’s interior.

IMG_0150
Service Kit – Vario 2 Hydraulic Cylinders

The Fix
This is the main cause of failure of the soft top of these cars. The hydraulic seals inside the cylinders are made of material that is not very durable and degrade over the years in the mineral fluid independently whether you use the soft top a lot or do not use it at all. The hydraulic seals usually simply disintegrate. No stop leak is able to fix the problem as sometimes sections of the seal crack away creating a very large, and expensive damage to the interior of the car. The only correct and lasting repair is to replace the cylinders, which usually entails all of them so the problem does not repeat.

Atlantic Motorcar has deverloped some very specific procedures and tooling, combined with our expect technicians, to make this very challenging service last another quarter century!

How We Can Help
At Atlantic Motorcar we’ve deverloped some very specific procedures and tooling, combined with our expect technicians, to make this otherwise onerous repair a snap. Well, maybe not a “snap”, hard to call a day + of labor a snap, let’s just say that we make it flow very, very smoothly.

All told, the power hydraulic system on the 170 is compromised of number individual cylinders that do everything from unlatching the top, to moving the convertible top out of the way, and folding securely in the boot. If the soft top of your beloved SLK roadster, or for that matter W129 or 124 Cabriolet, is not working any more or is very slow, chances are that the hydraulic cylinders that operate the top are leaking.

Finally
Questions, or if we can be of help in any way with service on your Mini Cooper, BMW, or other European (and now Japanese) import, please contact us. Our team of Service Specialists are here to help, for even the newest autos! (207) 882-9969.

Knowing, not just “doing”, that’s the Atlantic Motorcar Center way of life.
Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

 

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Nitrogen And Automotive Tires – Peanut Butter & Jelly Or Snake Oil?

Case Studies

Nitrogen in TiresThe Claim
You’ve likely see 0r heard the claim, “Nitrogen gives me better fuel economy, makes my tires last longer, and I don’t lose air from my tires. It’s more responsible for the environment.”

Nitrogen in TiresAll noble and good things, except…actually, we’re all riding on nitrogen filled tires. Let’s let that sink in for a moment and I’ll explain. So called “normal” air, that stuff is all around you and me, but we can’t see, is composed of 78% nitrogen. It’s free, and when we need to top off a tire, one doesn’t have to hunt around for tire dealer who sells nitrogen, they just need the closest air pump.

What nitrogen does excel at, according to industry/trade publications, is bringing the customer back to the tire dealer 3 or 4 times a year to obtain more nitrogen to top off normal air loss. True that some don’t charge for this service, but it let them get another look at your tires, and it offers additional sales opportunities for the tire dealer.

Litmus Test 
One thing that let’s me know when a product or technology has “arrived” is when I see it used on new cars. When the new car manufacturer decides that is standard, then I know it makes economic sense. A few years back BMW came out with a technical service bulletin about nitrogen use in their tires, I’ll see if I can hunt it in a few days to share here. Overall, their option was “not so much”.

To that point, I think of the “normal air” vs the nitrogen paradigm like this, some folks prefer tap water, others prefer a bottled water, nothing wrong with either, unless you’re on the Detroit water system.

Here’s a great article that goes into even more length about the use of nitrogen in automotive tires – https://jalopnik.com/heres-the-deal-with-nitrogen-filled-tires-1795659391

Final
Earning your trust, every time you turn the car…that’s what we do…every day…for the last 30 years. Click here see what our happy customers have to say about us and our service at AMC Customer Reviews.

If you have questions, or if we can be of further assistance, just call us at (207) 882-969, we’d love to meet you, and your car!

Warmly,
Bruce and the AMC Service Team

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Tech Tip – The Truth About Lifetime Transmission Fluids – “Oil is Cheaper Than Metal”

Case Studies
BMW, Mini Cooper Transmission Fluid

There is a trend with many manufacturers to use so called “Lifetime” transmission fluids in their new cars. Audi, BMW and Mercedes have been doing this for years.

The real question is what is a “lifetime”? If the lifetime of the car is the reference point, most owners will be sorely disappointed, for it seems to us that almost all of the fluids need service around 60K miles, far shorter than the lifetime of most European cars. While fluids and lubricants have doubtlessly improved over time, we suspect that the real reason for these “lifetime” fluids is the extended service intervals of new cars.

Often times the manufacturer will offer “free” service for the first 60K or so miles. So the “lifetime” fluid is just one way for them to lower their costs, you just pay the tab later. Doesn’t sound fair, does it? We agree.

The “Free Service” program is great for the first 60,000 miles. The original owner will rave about the low maintenance car where he received 3 or so free oil changes & perhaps a brake service.

A happy owner drives Consumer Satisfaction Scores up, more new cars are then sold, and the manufacturer is very pleased. Problem is, the next 60,000 miles. If the original owner keeps the car reality will set in pretty quickly, or worse, the car is sold, and now the new owner starts to pay the piper for the deferred service.

BMW, Mini Cooper Transmission Fluid

Over the last 10 years as we’ve noted the trend toward reduced or eliminated fluid services, we’ve also noted a corresponding increase in transmission and driveline problems.

We have an expression here, “Oil is cheaper than metal.”, it is much less expensive to change fluids, even the synthetic fluids, than it is to replace parts.

With full fluid service on a newer BMW or Volvo is in the $350 – $400 range, a transmission is in the $5,000+ range, its an easy decision to make!

We service a great many new cars still in warranty, but we also have some higher milage units still going strong on 300,000 miles, so we know that fluid service, and preventive maintenance does work.

We delight in taking folks into our shop to show them exactly what we’ve found. The more you know about your car, the better you can work with the folks helping you.

Thanks,
AMC Service Team

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BMW and Mini Cooper Battery Replacement – Registering New Battery

Case Studies

Did you know that the BMW engine computer, known as a DME (Digital Motor Electronics) must be programed to know a new battery has been installed?

Our Senior Service Technician Nick explains why. We’re obviously playing up the humor here, but the topic isn’t a joke, it’s a real issue.

Otherwise the battery can under or overcharge, and cause premature battery failure. Older batteries become sulfated with time and require a higher charging rate. So unless the DME is notified a new battery is installed, it will often overcharge, and damage the new battery in short order.

 

The #1 reason for battery failure after battery replacement, other than the use of the incorrect battery type, is the failure to properly program the car.

Knowledge, Integrity, Trust. Every time.
Because you and your car deserve it!

– Bruce

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