tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85117479476476895862024-03-14T01:12:12.223-05:00mynewbmwBMW - THE ULTIMATE DRIVING MACHINE.
Daily Thoughts and Impressions of a First Time Owner.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-69304766951938135622011-07-17T23:57:00.001-05:002011-07-18T00:04:49.805-05:00DAY 65 - Squeaky Clean!The sun went down, and the temperature finally dropped to 88 degrees. It was hot, but I decided to go ahead and give Zelda a bath in the driveway. It didn't take long, and after I got all the water off with the chamois, she looked pretty good. I blew the water out of the wheels with the air compressor, and I'm going to respray the wheels tomorrow with the Armorall Wheel Protectant. That stuff gets a big thumbs up from this driver. It makes the wheels so slippery that the brake dust just blows away. I love it.<br />
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I also cleaned the glass with Windex tonight The windshield and the nose had a lot of dried bug remnants from the past couple weeks of driving. Tomorrow I'll use the RainX I bought a few weeks ago. I'll probably give the whole car another coat of the Meguiar's Tech Wax again tomorrow, too. But I'll probably do it a little at a time so I don't get overheated. Of course that's after a morning of geocaching with my son and my nine year old grandson. Fun fun fun.<br />
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The car continues to grow on me. I'm really starting to like the appearance, and I'l learning more about the iDrive system. Today I learned you can vary the categories or the information displayed on the Satellite radio readout. I think a light bulb must have lit up above my head when I discovered that option. I also reset the system to lock the doors when the car starts moving. I kind of like that feature.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-20647640278105443102011-07-16T19:27:00.002-05:002011-07-16T19:31:09.493-05:00DAY 64 - Need a wash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UDc15Skm56o/TiItD_ha6OI/AAAAAAAAAHA/JwzthCsaBXw/s1600/carwash.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UDc15Skm56o/TiItD_ha6OI/AAAAAAAAAHA/JwzthCsaBXw/s320/carwash.gif" width="320" /></a></div>Aside from the occasional idling issues, the car continues to run great. The odometer is currently at a little over 1,900 miles. The only other issue is that the iDrive lady is hard of hearing. Either that or I mumble. When I try to tell her what radio station I'd like to hear, she misunderstands me. It's easier just to dial it in.<br />
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Rear driver's side door needs some type of adjustment. I know the cabin is tight, but the rear passenger door closes quite nicely on the first try. The dealer is going to have to address this issue and get it fixed — if I ever get over there.<br />
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One of the things I've noticed is that the car gets up to speed with relatively no effort. I pull away from a light and before I know it, I'm cruising along at 60 mph. The steering is responsive, almost intuitive. And the brakes are more than adequate. From a design standpoint, the car has a great look and actually appears to be moving even when it's standing still simply because of the body lines.<br />
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I'm happy with it so far. Except for the fact that it needs to be washed.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-85520401346693345322011-07-01T22:22:00.000-05:002011-07-01T22:22:33.455-05:00DAY 49 - Rough Idle ReturnsI'm still experiencing that strange idle situation. I pull into a parking lot and put the car in park. Then the tachometer does a little dance from 600 rpm up to 900 rpm. It keeps doing that as long as the engine is running and the car is in park.<br />
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Had another incident last week when I pulled into a McDonald's parking lot. The idle was rough again, but it was more severe, as if the engine was going to die. Then it would rev up a bit more, then back down, almost die, and then rev back up.<br />
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Has anyone experienced this? And do you think it's something the dealership can fix?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-41862158195147734592011-06-24T21:57:00.001-05:002011-06-24T22:02:44.082-05:00DAY 42 - I'm backIt's been two weeks since I've posted on this blog, and I apologize to those of you who have been visiting and hoping to read more info. So let me bring you "up-to-speed" with what's been happening since the last time I was here.<br />
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My wife and I took a road trip to Marshalll, Missouri, last weekend for a family reunion. It's a little under 100 mile trip from Kansas City and it's pretty much a straight shot east on I-70. It was a sunny day, and the car performed great with a couple of exceptions: First, I'm pretty certain I need to make a visit to the service department at the dealership to get an alignment. The car wanted to wander slowly to the right when I let go of the wheel. Not a severe degree of wandering, but enough to let me know there was something not quite correct. It didn't matter which lane I was in. It wandered to the right in both of them.<br />
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Secondly, the car seemed a little noisier than the Lexus. Perhaps that's to be expected, but I wasn't expecting it. It's probably the runflat tires that are the culprits for the noise, and I guess I'll just have to live with it for now.<br />
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I passed the 1,200 mile break-in number on the odometer yesterday, so I'm going to start doing a little more accelerator punching when the opportunity presents itself. Occasionally. The price of gas is the only reason I don't punch it more often just for the sheer joy of it. When I do throw caution to the wind, I'm sure I must have a look like Mr. Sardonicus for the next mile or so. In case you've never seen that old William Castle film, you might want to google it and get a look at the guy. You'll understand when you see him.<br />
<br />
So that's it for today from this reporter. I hope you'll leave a comment and tell me what's going on with you and your car.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-44894166981299782482011-06-10T23:34:00.000-05:002011-06-10T23:34:23.866-05:00DAY 27 - Another RPM IssueA few days ago I posted an article regarding an irregular engine revving issue that I experience with a cold engine. Here's a <a href="http://mynewbmw.blogspot.com/2011/06/day-18-engine-revving.html">LINK</a> to that post if you want the background first.<br />
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Something similar happened this evening. I had just come off the highway after a 7 mile trip following our son to a friend's house. We pulled to the curb and I put the shifter into Park. The A/C was running and the engine oil was at operating temperature of about 240 degrees. Within a few minutes after stopping the tachometer needed decided to move from 700 or so up to about 1200, very similar to what it had done in the garage when the engine was cold.<br />
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On this occasion, the needle did very similar gyrations to what it had done the first time. I'm wondering if it might be something that's programmed into the car to keep the engine cooler. But I have no basis for that speculation. After 30 seconds or so and a few trips from 700 to 1200 and back again, it quit moving and settled in at the 700 mark.<br />
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I'd love to hear from anyone who's had a similar experience and what the result was.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-26064109847966236232011-06-10T23:27:00.001-05:002011-06-10T23:29:07.384-05:00DAY 26 - Oops!I missed a day. And I'm actually writing this on day 27. It was just a very busy day and nothing really happened of any significance.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-90921830654442131822011-06-08T20:02:00.007-05:002011-06-08T20:53:59.972-05:00DAY 25 - A Quality Issue<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-58AUBEVJKyg/TfAe_q0ycfI/AAAAAAAAAGY/Hzoh-IPFRiQ/s1600/CosyVehicleImage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-58AUBEVJKyg/TfAe_q0ycfI/AAAAAAAAAGY/Hzoh-IPFRiQ/s400/CosyVehicleImage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>In my job, I spend a lot of time inside various vehicles. I check their options and look at the quality of their material and workmanship.<br />
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Since buying my BMW, I've been noticing things. Today was the day I noticed a lot about the interior quality and material of leather seats.<br />
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I was primarily looking at GM models today. These included the Chevrolet Malibu, Impala, HHR, Tahoe, and Traverse. I also got inside a few Cadillacs including a CTS, DTS, SRX, and Escalade. I learned something about the leather seats in these models that I wasn't aware of previously. And it was actually a bit of a shocking surprise. What I learned was that the leather seats in these vehicles are not made like the seats in my BMW.<br />
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In the models I examined, the seat back and seating area appears to be leather, or something reasonably similar in appearance. However, the side of the seat bolster is some type of mesh fabric. I was actually very surprised when I noticed it for the first time, and it became an obsession as I went from one model to the next, typically finding the same thing in each one.<br />
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I can understand this to some degree in the lower end model HHR, maybe even in the Malibu. But I'm thinking the Impala and ALL of the Cadillac line deserve better. They should spend the money to give the buyer the leather in that area and not cheap out and give them something that's not going to wear nearly as well in the long run. I'm still upset with Mercedes Benz and their obsession with the MB-Tex.<br />
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Obviously, GM is in a rebuilding mode since their bailout by the taxpayer, and if they can save a few dollars per vehicle, then I presume that's what they're going to do until things turn around and they become more profitable. This post is by no means meant to be a negative shot at the GM products. It's simply pointing out one of their cost-saving design elements that I find a bit unconventional and, well, actually a little tacky. I really think they could do the right thing with the seats and save the cost of that small amount of leather somewhere else in the manufacturing process. But that's just my opinion.<br />
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I'd love to hear yours. I'd especially love to hear from someone at GM who could provide some information and justification for why they're using that cheaper material. If there's a reason other than cost, I'd love to know about it.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-69377580954786800932011-06-07T23:36:00.001-05:002011-06-07T23:38:33.728-05:00DAY 24 - The Dust IssueThere is no way to keep a car clean unless you keep it inside all the time. And even then, you're going to have to cover it with a car cover. So, my meticulously waxed and dust-free paint became less than perfect today at the ball game.<br />
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Our nine-year-old grandson had his first baseball game this evening. Unfortunately, it was played at an older field that is currently undergoing remodeling. There are new sidewalks, bleachers, and lots of gravel dust. It's a mess, actually, especially if you're driving a spotlessly waxed and dusted vehicle.<br />
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Well, spotless and dust-free are now things of the past. Zelda is home from the game, and she's sitting in the garage with a fine coat of dust on her paint. Hopefully, some of that will blow off tomorrow on the way to work. We'll see how many particles can hold on at 80 mph.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-25613781218451878922011-06-06T18:28:00.001-05:002011-06-06T18:29:52.891-05:00DAY 23 - Instant MPGWhile visiting <a href="http://www.bimmerfest.com/">Bimmerfest </a>recently, someone posted a comment that the 335i does not have an option to view instant mpg. Actually, that's not true. It's a little convoluted, but here's the procedure to displaying that info on your instrument panel.<br />
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1. Press the "BC" button on your turn signal stalk.<br />
2. The first item that comes up is your "range" number (how many miles until empty).<br />
3. Keep pressing it, and eventually, you will see something that looks like this:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p8lX4QoBsxQ/Te1iYOvdh5I/AAAAAAAAAGU/jQp4cVdpBMU/s1600/mpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p8lX4QoBsxQ/Te1iYOvdh5I/AAAAAAAAAGU/jQp4cVdpBMU/s320/mpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>That's all you have to do.<br />
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From that point on, every time you start the engine, the display will appear. If you get tired of it, you can press that BC button again and go to another option.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-13991172164015403522011-06-05T21:18:00.000-05:002011-06-05T21:18:46.297-05:00DAY 22 - A Meguiar's Kind of DayIt was a beautiful day today. The skies were clear and blue, and the temperature got up to 92 degrees or thereabouts. I sweated like a pig in the garage, but it was an enjoyable exercise. Here's the itinerary:<br />
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<i><b>1. Did a quick wash in the driveway, paying particular attention to the wheels.</b></i><br />
<i><b>2. Microfiber towel drying. (I've heard a leaf blower is a great alternative to the manual method.)</b></i><br />
<i><b>3. Clay barred the hood and trunk, the roof, and the top of the front fenders. </b></i><br />
<i><b>4. Considered clay barring the rest, but I decided to save the time required to do the vertical surfaces since they didn't seem to need it as much as the horizontal ones.</b></i><br />
<i><b>5. Used the Meguiar's NXT Tech Wax 2.0 for the first time. I absolutely LOVE it. It's easy-on-easy-off and it leaves a great shine. The next time I wash it I'm planning to try the Meguiar's Yellow Wax (#26).*</b></i><br />
<i><b>6. Sprayed the wheels with the Armour All Wheel Protectant. Pretty nice finish. Hope it works.</b></i><br />
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And here are the results. The lighting wasn't intense, since it was almost 9:00 p.m. when I took these, but you can definitely see a nice shine on the car. Okay, it's a brand new car with new paint, but it didn't shine like this before the wax was applied.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dg4yRk13vFA/Tew2cGNFLGI/AAAAAAAAAGM/sKnWx7JT6SE/s1600/335+waxed+rear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dg4yRk13vFA/Tew2cGNFLGI/AAAAAAAAAGM/sKnWx7JT6SE/s320/335+waxed+rear.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Now, in case you noticed that asterisk up there at the end of item 5, here's what that's all about.<br />
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If you're a dealer or distributor, of if perhaps you're the owner of <a href="http://www.meguiars.com/">Meguiar's</a>, send me a can of that Yellow Wax #26 so I can give it a try. After all, I've given you great press on your NXT product. Right? Right.<br />
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And if you're a Zaino dealer or distributor, I'd love to try that product, too, and tell my readers what I think of it. So, package up a Porter Cable buffer and the pads I'll need, along with some product and some instructions, and I'll give it a go. I'd be happy to make a video.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDjH2lZukQw/Tew2gmxYyYI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/jKtD8EJbH-Y/s1600/335+waxed+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDjH2lZukQw/Tew2gmxYyYI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/jKtD8EJbH-Y/s320/335+waxed+front.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I grew up using Turtlewax, (on my 1964 Chevrolet Impala Super Sport 327, 4-speed convertible) but I haven't tried any of their product in years. I'm sure there are some new state-of-the-art items in their product line. I'd be happy to try those and review them as well. Just leave a comment and we'll work out the details.<br />
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And for those car lovers out there who have their own favorites, leave a comment and tell us what you like. Looking forward to hearing from you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-89731449137374176362011-06-04T21:03:00.001-05:002011-06-04T21:08:35.453-05:00DAY 21 - Got Tech Wax 2.0!My day was way too busy. In fact, there was so much to do that I didn't get a chance to do anything with Zelda other than drive her to Walmart, Sherwin Williams, Sally's Beauty Salon (for the wife, of course), Aldi's, and McDonald's. However, I took advantage of being at Walmart to pick up a bottle of Meguiar's NXT Tech Wax 2.0. I'm really anxious to try that product out because I've heard a lot of good reports on it. Hopefully, I can spend some time with the claybar tomorrow and then the NXT.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-06hXpJDd8GQ/TerkyBaQdDI/AAAAAAAAAGI/1R1ZVEGHHr8/s1600/NXT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-06hXpJDd8GQ/TerkyBaQdDI/AAAAAAAAAGI/1R1ZVEGHHr8/s1600/NXT.jpg" /></a></div>It's 9:00 pm here in KC now. It's getting dark. I supposed I could make a trip to the garage and get the pressure corrected in all four tires, since it wasn't right when I drove it home from the dealership. How do they manage to deliver a car without checking the tire pressure. I would think there would be a punch list to make sure everything was done correctly for the customer. (See my earlier post about the coolant level.)<br />
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I also need to get a small vacuum to pick up the lint on the carpet. Any suggestions on a cheap alternative for that task?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-51631933904460046512011-06-03T22:34:00.002-05:002011-06-03T22:47:54.706-05:00DAY 20 - BMW Assist - Finally!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3DS8vzzcuBA/TempSzENftI/AAAAAAAAAGE/fkuTqpOJhfg/s1600/Emergency_Request_Large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3DS8vzzcuBA/TempSzENftI/AAAAAAAAAGE/fkuTqpOJhfg/s320/Emergency_Request_Large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I called my SA this afternoon and asked him if he received my email with the VIN issue. He said he had and that the correction had been made. He also told me to "Press the button to open the SOS activation switch and press it."<br />
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I did as he suggested. It appears that plugging the correct VIN into the BMW Assist enrollment application on the dealership's computer was the answer to the missing BMW Assist feature, because within a moment after pressing the button, the voice on the other end of the call told me that I did, in fact, have the BMW Assist feature and it was activated!<br />
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What followed was an in-depth explanation of the feature-laden BMW Assist program which included roadside assistance for fuel, flat tire, weak battery, and even an automatic unlocking feature, should you happen to leave your keys inside the car. And they have a safety feature that automatically dispatches emergency assistance if they receive notification that an airbag has deployed. As I mentioned, it took a few minutes for the rep to go through the features and get everything set up. She was quite pleasant and very professional, and when we finished, it was done and everything was operational. I'm glad to get that done and off my to-do list. Finally!<br />
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Moving forward, tomorrow looks like a good day to hose off the dust and finish that claybarring that I started last night. I also want to try the Meguiar's Yellow Wax and see how that works. Of course that will come after the claybar and the Show Car Polish. I also want to try out the new Armour All Wheel Protectant to get that brake dust under control. We'll make it look like a brand new car when we're finished!<br />
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If you have any favorites in your collection of waxes and polishes, feel free to leave a comment. I would love to hear from you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-87424819229786876602011-06-02T22:32:00.003-05:002011-06-02T22:44:01.993-05:00DAY 19 - The Plot Thickens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jj9ONoPfuYU/TehWf0rurVI/AAAAAAAAAF0/u8vgc4tsajs/s1600/meguiars-gold-class-wax.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jj9ONoPfuYU/TehWf0rurVI/AAAAAAAAAF0/u8vgc4tsajs/s320/meguiars-gold-class-wax.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Perhaps I've discovered why I have no BMW Assist for my car. I received today in the mail my BMW Assist Enrollment Agreement. The service is free, but they require me to sign and return one copy to my dealership.<br />
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In looking over the document, I noticed two errors: The car was listed as Titanium Silver Metallic instead of Space Gray. That's probably not a cause for my car not being enrolled, but the second error just might be. The VIN is totally wrong—not just a number or two—totally incorrect. That, I presume, may be the cause that there's no record of my car being enrolled. I've sent an email to my SA and asked him to re-enter the info with the correct VIN. We'll see what that does.<br />
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On another subject, I took the old claybar to one side of the hood tonight. It seems strange that a new paint job would have so many imperfections in it, but it does. Correction, only one side of it does now. The claybar worked wonderfully, as usual, and left half the hood perfectly smooth. Following that, I applied a coat of Meguiar's Show Car Polish and a coat of their Gold Master Wax.<br />
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On the inside, I've noticed some small spots on the vinyl in the door sills, as if someone sprayed something on it but didn't wipe it off. I took a little Meguiar's Vinyl and Rubber Protectant and gave it a quick swipe. Those areas are perfectly flawless now. Amazing what a little bit of a high quality product can do when you take a little time to use it. Maybe I should be working in a detail shop. Or start my own business detailing high-end vehicles. Hmm. Something to consider in retirement.<br />
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This weekend I'm going to do the whole car. I'm planning on picking up either some Meguiar's Gold Class Carnauba Wax or some of their Yellow Wax product. I need to research those a bit. If you've used either of them, please leave a comment and tell us what you thought of them.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-17372433431939440552011-06-01T21:11:00.000-05:002011-06-01T21:11:06.607-05:00DAY 18 - Engine Revving ????What a day this has been. I still don't have BMW Assist. I called the SA. He said he had put everything into the computer and it should be working. I called BMW. The lady I spoke with did some checking and told me that the dealership had apparently not done something to activate it. It's going to require a trip to the dealership to get it fixed. Bummer.<br />
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And now there's another issue that's a brand new one. The car had been sitting for five hours after driving it home, so the engine was cool. Not totally cool, but not hot either. I decided to go buy a Powerball ticket. When I started the car, it started right up, as usual. Then the engine began revving between 700 and 1200 rpm. Then it returned to 700 rpm and repeated the procedure. This round trip from 700 to 1200 and back to 700 took approximately 1 second. It went through this revving about 8 or 10 times and then stopped. Anyone have any idea what that's all about? Something to ask the dealership when I get the BMW Assist fixed, I guess. Maybe should trade it for an HHR or something.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-70107646989242670512011-05-31T22:41:00.002-05:002011-05-31T22:49:34.213-05:00DAY 17 - Car Wash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKG49g-Kaxg/TeW1v5QAwMI/AAAAAAAAAFw/f157xceNtHE/s1600/carwash.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKG49g-Kaxg/TeW1v5QAwMI/AAAAAAAAAFw/f157xceNtHE/s320/carwash.gif" width="320" /></a></div>It's been raining. Water spots abound. I can't stand a dirty car, so we took a trip to the do-it-yourself car wash. It was a quick in and quick out and $1.75 later we were on the way home. When we arrived I wiped off the remaining water drops with a microfiber towel, including inside the hood, trunk, and doors. I felt much better afterwards.<br />
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The temperature was around 85 degrees today. We spent some time hard-driving on the interstate, and the oil temperature got up to 250 degrees for the first time. From what I've read, that's not out of line or excessive. I did notice during our highway trip that the cabin seemed a bit nosier than the old Lexus as I remember it. Perhaps I just didn't drive that fast in the Lexus. And it didn't have run-flat tires. I'm sure I'll get used to it. Even at 85 mph, the car still seems to be begging for more speed. It's tempting, but we're still in the break-in-stay-under-100-mph period. But we've passed the 500 mile mark now so it won't be too much longer.<br />
<br />
And that's about it for the news today. Oh, still haven't checked that BMW Assist button again to see what happens. Supposedly, according to my SA, they were going to get that taken care of. I'll check it tomorrow and let you know what I find out.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-50967303935558185022011-05-30T10:22:00.002-05:002011-05-30T13:55:30.535-05:00DAY 16 - BMW Assist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TwJFz7YwBSA/TeO1jXMnowI/AAAAAAAAAFs/kqVZ7RuOwls/s1600/BMW_Assist_2_374x250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TwJFz7YwBSA/TeO1jXMnowI/AAAAAAAAAFs/kqVZ7RuOwls/s320/BMW_Assist_2_374x250.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I decided to check my BMW Assist button yesterday. I was surprised and a bit disappointed when I got a recording stating that my vehicle wasn't enrolled in the program. Hmmm, thought I, perhaps my vehicle did not come with the <b>BMW Assist option.</b><br />
<br />
A quick check of my spec sheet showed that my car did, in fact, include the BMW Assist option. In addition, an internet search informed me that the BMW Assist option automatically comes with any vehicle that includes the Premium Package. It appears that my dealer failed to enroll my vehicle in the program. That's not an issue at this point, since we've caught it in time. However, it COULD have been an issue if we hadn't discovered it. According to BMW USA, owners have to enroll within the first 60 days or lose the option.<br />
<br />
I wanted to get this fixed as soon as possible (I hate loose ends) so I placed a call to BMW. Unfortunately, they're not in today. Naturally, the dealership isn't open either. So, I'll need to remember to give them a call tomorrow. Meanwhile, I'm sending an email to the SA at the dealership to inform him of the issue. Hopefully, I can handle the enrollment with BMW by phone. After it becomes active, I'll let you know how it works.<br />
<br />
<b>UPDATE: Just received a call from my SA. He said he would take care of it, and it should be activated within an hour or so. We shall we what happens.</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-52903882581539169382011-05-29T14:07:00.005-05:002011-05-30T10:23:38.506-05:00DAY 15 - Oil Level Checking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vd5zXL25J_g/TeKaFldJ2oI/AAAAAAAAAFo/__XgY-zovUA/s1600/Oil-Pressure-lg.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vd5zXL25J_g/TeKaFldJ2oI/AAAAAAAAAFo/__XgY-zovUA/s200/Oil-Pressure-lg.gif" width="200" /></a></div>We previously touched on this subject, but only briefly. Let's take a little longer look at it, shall we?<br />
<br />
As mentioned in an earlier post, the 335i has no dipstick. Since it's missing an old friend that a lot of us grew up with, how do we go about checking the level or the considtion of our car's vital fluid. Never fear, technology comes to the rescue in this vehicle and makes it an easy task to get the information we need. Actually, there are a couple of methods we can employ.<br />
<br />
If you have Voice Command you can simply press the talking head button on the steering wheel. After the chime, say "Vehicle Status," and the control center monitor will bring up the Vehicle Status screen. Turn the iDrive wheel clockwise until you get to the icon of the little oil can or whatever that thing is. Click it and you will see a vertical graph with "Min" and "Max" lines. It will show where your oil level is and will (hopefully) give you a readout that says "System OK" or "Oil Level OK" or something like that. I can't recall exactly what it says.<br />
<br />
The other method involves the steering wheel stalk on the top left side. There's a little toggle button you can move up or down. Move it until you see "Oil" on the readout and then press the BC button on the end of the stalk. This method will give you the same info as the other one.<br />
<br />
There's one thing you need to remember. You won't get a reading until the engine is warmed up. The oil temperature needle has to move off the peg before the system will give you a reading. And there you have it. Oil checking the new way. Enjoy.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-22503258161475771012011-05-27T22:57:00.005-05:002011-05-30T10:23:52.402-05:00DAY 14 - The Turbo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nO6880nN5Js/TeB1zdss98I/AAAAAAAAAFk/GT3YizQIJ3s/s1600/humphrey-bogart-casablanca-framed-vintage-photo-display_6d1e04fa42ac48a1855bd8b9daa1eabd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nO6880nN5Js/TeB1zdss98I/AAAAAAAAAFk/GT3YizQIJ3s/s320/humphrey-bogart-casablanca-framed-vintage-photo-display_6d1e04fa42ac48a1855bd8b9daa1eabd.jpg" width="269" /></a></div>I watched a movie last night entitled The Black Legion. It was a 1937 film starring my long-time favorite actor, Humphrey Bogart. I did a little research afterwards and learned, to my total surprise, that he and Lauren Bacall had a son named Stephen Humphrey Bogart.<br />
<br />
Now that in itself isn't anything astonishing. However, the amazing part is that Stephen was born on January 6, 1949. I couldn't believe it! My favorite actor's son and I were not only born in the same year, we were born on exactly the same day, maybe even at the same time! Wow. How cool is that? But, as interesting and phenomenal as that may be, that's not what this blog is about. So let's get back to the subject at hand.<br />
<br />
It's been two weeks today since picking up Zelda and bringing her home. We've clocked a little over 400 miles in those two weeks, and I'm anxious to give that Turbo a little kick in the pants. But we're still in the break-in period, so I can't.<br />
<br />
I did a little research tonight to figure out how that Twin Turbo on the N55 engine works. To be honest, all the details left me a little verklempt, but I got the basic technology of the system through my thick skull. At least partially. So, here's an attempt at 'splaining it to my readers, if there are any.<br />
<br />
First of all, the N55 is not actually a "twin" turbo, as was the N54. BMW redesigned it and currently calls it a Twin Scroll Turbo. The way I understand it, turbocharging involves putting more air, or pressurized air, into the cylinders. It uses the exhaust to spin the turbo fins which compress the air. Naturally, when it's compressed, heat is produced, so it has to be cooled before being forced into the cylinders. The Twin Scrolling feature is related to "turbo lag" and this technology reduces or eliminates that undesirable feature.<br />
<br />
And that's about all I was able to learn. But if you'd like to read a more detailed narrative, you can find a really good explanation <a href="http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/05/26/the-latest-bmw-engine-n55-found-in-the-bmw-5-series-gt/">HERE</a>. Check it out.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-83873421907965170972011-05-26T22:14:00.014-05:002011-05-30T10:24:07.389-05:00DAY 13 - Run-Flat Tires<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k8E_sqSFP6o/Td8jRUFIJxI/AAAAAAAAAFg/3DXn4R12J-I/s1600/TIRES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k8E_sqSFP6o/Td8jRUFIJxI/AAAAAAAAAFg/3DXn4R12J-I/s320/TIRES.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;">The BMW 335i comes with run-flat tires. If you’re not familiar with them, I thought I would write a post today that would give you a primer on them and the pros and cons. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">There is a long-running argument about them. Some drivers love them. Others hate them. But, beyond all of this disagreement, it’s safe to say that no one in their right mind looks forward to experiencing the inconvenience and danger of a blow out. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Also, it’s never cool to be stranded on the side of a busy highway waiting for roadside assistance or, heaven forbid, having to figure out how to use that jack that’s been hiding in the trunk since the car was new.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">But exactly what is a run-flat tire and what makes it different than the tires we grew up with. According to Edmunds.com:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial;">Run-flat or zero-pressure tires are intended to support the weight of the car for a short time, providing the driver with 100 or so miles of range to get off the highway and find a repair shop. Two kinds of zero-pressure tires exist in the market today. Both types still require the usual amount of air to provide day-to-day performance. Self-supporting tires (SSTs) are the original and most common run-flat type. Heavily reinforced sidewalls support the vehicle after air departs the scene. This sort of run-flat is designed to fit on normal wheels with no modifications. Michelin's PAX, a patented auxiliary support run-flat system, is a relative newcomer. PAX sidewalls, while still stiffer than normal tires, are not as rigid as SSTs. Instead Michelin designed a unique wheel that positions a semi-rigid "support ring" inside the tire to hold the car up when the air goes bye-bye. A non-standard bead design is necessary where wheel and tire meet.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Since these tires have stiff sidewalls, they don’t appear flat, even when they’re out of air. So how does a driver know if their tires are low on pressure without continually checking them?<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Edmunds.com says:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial;">TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system, ed.) has become mandatory in run-flat applications. Since run-flats only provide a limited zero-pressure driving range, TPMS is critical to help the driver know when the mileage clock starts ticking, and more importantly, when time is up.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Do the advantages outweigh the negative aspects? Let’s see.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial;">PROS:</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">You can drive on a flat tire. You’re typically limited to 50 mph and 100 miles maximum distance.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Better stability after a blowout. Since these tires can support the car without air, steering and handling remain pretty much normal after a blowout.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Repairability —Run-flat repair guidelines are similar to standard tires, provided the speed and distance limits are not exceeded after a flat.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial;">CONS:</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">You have no spare. Of course, you really don’t need one with a run-flat tire. That’s the whole idea behind them.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">You’re going to get a harder ride. The stiff sidewalls that are the prime design feature of the run-flat tire result in a harder ride.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">They don’t last as long. The jury is still out on this, but most resources tell us that run-flats tend to wear more quickly.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Blowouts are still possible, as they are with standard tires.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Run-flat tires are heavier, due to the weight of the reinforcement.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Run-flat tires are more costly. Compared to standard tires, expect to pay double, or more.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">And one other thing that Edmunds failed to mention is that run-flat tires are a little noisier than standard tires. The Goodyear Eagles I had on the Corvette were terribly noisy. When I switched them out for the MIchelin Pilot Sports, the sound level dropped dramatically.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span style="font-family: Arial;">So there you have it. And just so you know, the new 335i currently has a little over 400 miles on it. The break-in period limitations on speed are partly in place so that the new tires can get a little wear on them so they grip the road a bit better. <o:p></o:p></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-20551122246884577822011-05-25T21:10:00.009-05:002011-05-30T10:24:21.211-05:00DAY 12 - Problem Solved!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C7HrVvcDtKg/Td26W2iUtKI/AAAAAAAAAFU/egudHVbXpbw/s1600/2011-bmw-3-series-2-door-convertible-335i-engine_100316814_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C7HrVvcDtKg/Td26W2iUtKI/AAAAAAAAAFU/egudHVbXpbw/s320/2011-bmw-3-series-2-door-convertible-335i-engine_100316814_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7SJJfJryDE/Td242yrsAMI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/2ZZg8nQxdns/s1600/2011-bmw-3-series-2-door-convertible-335i-engine_100316814_l.jpg"><span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you've been reading along, you know the recurring issue I've been trying to resolve. In case you haven't been following closely, the issue is the continual appearance of the radiator icon indicating a low coolant level. Thanks to the experts on the </span></span></a><span style="color: #0000f5;"><a href="http://www.bimmerfest.com/"><b><span style="color: #0000f5;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bimmerfest</span></span></b></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> forums, I've learned that you're not supposed to add antifreeze, unless it's the BMW branded variety. I was also advised to speak to a service assistant rather than a salesperson regarding what to do to resolve this issue.</span><span style="color: #0000f5;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This afternoon I called the dealership and spoke with the service manager. He verified the accuracy of the Bimmerfest poster's suggestion of not adding antifreeze. He also told me it was perfectly fine to add regular tap water to the coolant reservoir (which is what my sales associate correctly advised).</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, this evening, after everything had cooled down, I began the process. It took approximately two cups of water to bring the level above the "minimum" level indicator. I could have added more and brought it up a little higher, but I opted to leave it at that level and test it. When I started the engine, my familiar radiator icon failed to appear. That was a good sign, but I decided to dig a bit deeper to be sure. I checked the "vehicle status" on the iDrive and went to the "Check Control" data field. Instead of the usual "Low Coolant Level" announcement, the computer gave me a message I had never seen before: "All Systems OK."</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Can you tell that I'm more than just a little happy about that outcome?</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-27952398099623490822011-05-24T21:04:00.002-05:002011-05-30T10:24:33.178-05:00DAY 11 - Stormy weather<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6wZ33UkPqyc/TdxlOW4jWpI/AAAAAAAAAFI/jL_rZHTH9kY/s1600/rain-sensing-wipers-800X800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6wZ33UkPqyc/TdxlOW4jWpI/AAAAAAAAAFI/jL_rZHTH9kY/s320/rain-sensing-wipers-800X800.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The weather continues to deteriorate tonight as more storms move in. That factor makes it an easy segue to the rain-sensing wipers on the BMW. These are standard equipment on the 335i, which was a bit of a surprise to me when I found out I had them. Since then, I've been wondering how they work. I found the following explanation at the <a href="http://www.jdpower.com/">JDPower</a> website.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><i></i></span><br />
<i></i><br />
<i><div class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline !important;"><div style="display: inline !important;"><i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">The technology behind rain-sensing wipers is not complicated. A small area of the front windshield glass (usually located on the outside of the vehicle, opposite the rear-view mirror) is monitored by an optical sensor. The sensor is designed to project harmless infrared light at the windshield at an angle and then read the amount of light that is reflected back. A clean windshield will reflect nearly all of the light back, while a wet or dirty windshield will cause the light to scatter. The optical sensor can determine the necessary frequency and speed of the windshield wipers by monitoring the amount of light reflected back into the sensor.</span></i></div></div></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><i></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><i><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">As a safety precaution, and to prevent damage to the wiper mechanism, nearly all rain-sensing wipers must be activated each time they are used. The activation process prevents the system from automatically wiping a frozen windshield, or triggering while the vehicle is in a car wash; both instances could damage the blades or electric motor powering the wipers.</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br />
</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">So, there you have it. Just in case you were wondering.</span></span></div></i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-7550502543613311212011-05-23T21:33:00.004-05:002011-05-30T10:24:45.700-05:00DAY 10 - Smokey and the exhaust issue<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7zmcRPFuyKM/TdsZXVE7p2I/AAAAAAAAAFE/6-MgCaMvz9Q/s1600/Smokey%252BRobinson1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7zmcRPFuyKM/TdsZXVE7p2I/AAAAAAAAAFE/6-MgCaMvz9Q/s1600/Smokey%252BRobinson1.jpg" /></a></div>New satellite radio favorite: Soul Town. Channel 49. Lots of great soul music from the 60s. Lots of Motown artists.<br />
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Speaking of smokey, let's talk about the BMW 335i exhaust system. I've noticed that my right exhaust pipe always has more black soot in it than the left one. I wondered about that and decided to find out why. Here's the scoop.<br />
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There is a deflector in the exhaust system that either closes or direct the exhaust to the right side during cold start and warm up. Several other manufacturers employ a similar method and it appears to be the right side in most cases that the exhaust is directed to. So there you have it.<br />
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On another note from a previous post, my pesky little radiator icon was on the instrument panel again this morning, reminding me to call my salesman and find out what he learned since Friday about my low coolant warning. He told me that I could simply add coolant or water, even tap water, he said, with no problem. I'm guessing the coolant level isn't more than a pint low, so I'm thinking a pint of tap water might not be a destructive addition to the total volume of the radiator. Any thoughts on that?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-26016345554579795622011-05-22T12:00:00.006-05:002011-05-22T12:11:48.345-05:00DAY NINE - Dragnet and the Case of Continual Rain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ygFB02Wa7xo/Tdk_5KL_R6I/AAAAAAAAAFA/n4eMbvH6zHc/s1600/dragnet-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ygFB02Wa7xo/Tdk_5KL_R6I/AAAAAAAAAFA/n4eMbvH6zHc/s1600/dragnet-2.jpg" /></a></div>Dragnet, the radio version, began broadcasting in 1949, the year I was born. And today, 62 years later, I listened to an original episode. It was broadcast on satellite radio channel 82 (Radio Classics). In case you're too young to remember, those actors in the photo on the left are Jack Webb and Harry Morgan. You may remember Harry as Colonel Potter from M.A.S.H. I'm kind of a <a href="http://fiftiesnostalgia.blogspot.com/">NOSTALGIA</a> lover, so I'm liking this Radio Classics channel.<br />
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This iDrive is pretty nifty. It's going to take me some time to figure out all its capabilities. So I'll need to read the manual some more and get the facts. Just the facts, as Joe Friday would say.<br />
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Meanwhile, it rained again yesterday. It doesn't look too threatening right now, but the weather in KC has a tendency of changing when you least expect it. According to the forecast, it's supposed to rain Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of this coming week. I'd love to wash the car to get all of those irritating little water spots off the paint, but it seems like a waste of time and water at this point. I may wait until next weekend.<br />
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Although, now that I think of it, I do have some Meguiar's Detail Spray and a microfiber towel I could use to clean the water spots out of the door openings and off the thresholds. And I could check that coolant level when the engine is cold and see where it's setting.<br />
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Leave a comment if you have a favorite radio station or specific washing or detailing hints, or favorite products, or iDrive info, or anything else you'd like to comment on.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-18725730828254013522011-05-21T21:07:00.003-05:002011-05-21T21:13:36.492-05:00DAY EIGHT - Brake Dust and New Shoes<iframe width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/E2BjD4J3gy8?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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I didn't get a chance to wash the car today. Too many other things to do around the house and in the yard. I did purchase some Armour All Wheel Protectant after watching their video. It made a believer out of me that this product will solve my brake dust issue. Check it out for yourself.<br />
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On a different note, I picked up the 10-year-old granddaughter this afternoon. It was her first ride in the new car. When she got her seatbelt clicked and we took off she said, "Wow! You new car smells like a shoe store." It was classic.<br />
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We're sitting at about 330 miles now, on the second tank of gas, and still haven't heard from the dealer on that "low coolant" warning. Hopefully we'll have an answer next week. It's starting to become a bit irritating to see that radiator icon every time I start the car.<br />
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Still loving it and looking forward to getting through this break-in period.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8511747947647689586.post-82966914982322401992011-05-20T19:54:00.006-05:002011-05-20T20:06:59.492-05:00DAY SEVEN - 1 week and a tank of gas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FBpTT-hSZYE/TdcOdZbqtbI/AAAAAAAAAE8/0re7wUhpKO4/s1600/elvis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FBpTT-hSZYE/TdcOdZbqtbI/AAAAAAAAAE8/0re7wUhpKO4/s320/elvis.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>I discovered channel 19 on my satellite radio today. Elvis Radio! I love it.<br />
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Back to the low coolant issue. I made a trip to the dealer today to have them top off the coolant reservoir. When the technician opened the reservoir, it was full. Further investigation was required. He asked for my key, which he plugged into a slot on his computer and a "historical readout" came up on the monitor. When he hit the print button, the printer spit out a data record containing lots of info. He said he would give this to the "analyst" and someone would call and let me know what needed to be done. I had no idea the ignition key held all that data.<br />
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Also, when he slammed the hood, that uneven closure disappeared. Apparently, I had been too gentle in shutting it and hadn't engaged it completely. In the future, I'll just slam it. Duh!<br />
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So, at this moment, my low coolant warning is still an unsolved mystery. But as soon as I find out what's going on, I'll be sure and pass it along.<br />
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On the way home from the dealer, I got a "low fuel" warning on the instrument panel. I stopped at the Shell station and filled the tank with 91 octane, which is what the manual recommends. The total bill was $60.01 for the 15.35 gallons it took to fill up. After checking the "vehicle info" on the iDrive and learning that the car has averaged 19.8 mpg since I picked it up, I hit the "reset" option and punched the trip button. I'm hoping the second tank will get better mileage, but that remains to be seen.<br />
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It's supposed to be sunny and warm tomorrow in the Kansas City area. It seems as if it will be a good day to give it a wash and wax everything that I haven't waxed yet. I'm looking forward to it.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277050810405207727noreply@blogger.com2