Author: Ryan GMW

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BMW Fuel Pressure Regulator: How To Know If It Needs Repair?

If you have been experiencing poor performance in your BMW, the culprit might be the fuel pressure regulator. How can you tell if a fuel regulator needs some repair? Is there any test that you can perform to see if it will need replacements? To know if it is a problem, you must first understand how a fuel pressure regulator works, what symptoms it will display. After this then you can see what BMW Fuel Pressure Regulator Repair that may be done to solve the problem and if repair is needed.

What Does a BMW Fuel Pressure Regulator Do?

The job of the regulator is to do exactly that. While the fuel pump itself supplies pressure to the fuel rail, the regulator is what keeps the pressure consistent and maintains that level of pressure. It is an intricate part of the fuel system, and if it is not functioning properly, it can result in sputtering as well as a loss in performance with a vehicle running either too lean or too rich. It will also aid in the starting of your vehicle, by allowing pressure to remain in the system.

What are the symptoms of a failing pressure regulator?

Some of the more common symptoms associated with a weak regulator that may need a BMW fuel pressure regulator repair would be:

  • Running rich, or an increase in fuel consumption, which would translate into reduced fuel economy
  • Little to no pressure after a car is shut off. Which will lead to troubles starting your vehicle
  • Black smoke coming from your exhaust
  • Possible fuel leaks, which is a fire and safety concern
  • The oil dipstick may smell like gasoline

When should you take your wheels in for a BMW fuel pressure regulator?

When considering taking your car in to be serviced, you may be tempted to doing an at home diagnostic job first. Do not do this because there are special tools needed as well as you should be an ASE certified technician. The injury may occur because the fuel lines are under lots of pressure. It is best to seek a shop that is knowledgeable on BMW fuel pressure regulator repair, instead of striving to do the work yourself at home. If you have been having any of the symptoms above, or your car is not running as it should, it is a good idea to bring your car in to be looking for the possible fuel pressure regulator repair. Often the fix is just replacing the old part with a new one, and this will solve many of the issues associated with vehicles that are running poorly due to a strict regulation of fuel.

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6 Tips In Choosing The Right BMW Repair Shop

When choosing the right BMW repair shop, there are a few things to consider. Your car can be a valuable lifeline for you getting from point “A” to point “B”, and getting it serviced by the very best is a decision you shouldn’t take lightly. Here are the six tips to picking the right repair shop for your BMW:

Is there a specialized BMW technician available on staff?

Possibly one of the reasons a BMW repair shop stands out above other repair shops is having a BMW master technician available to service your vehicle. To gain this achievement, it requires a minimum of 5 years of training exclusively with BMW’s. While it isn’t always needed to have a BMW master technician to work on your vehicle, you will want to have at the very least a dealership level of experience. It will ensure the highest level of care and quality of the work done.

Does the shop have the right tools for the job?

There is much to be said about having the right tools for the job. It can make a difference in how long a job takes, as well as the craft that goes into certain repairs. If a shop doesn’t have the necessary tools for proper fixes, they may take shortcuts to avoid doing certain things if they don’t have the correct tool. If you go to a BMW repair shop, you are most certainly guarantee they will have the right tools for any job. You’ll want to make sure that the shop you choose also uses the correct diagnostic tools. While most cars use the standard OBD2 systems, BMW uses specific computers to diagnose further into any issues your vehicle may be experiencing. It is best to choose a shop that can do more than just a simple OBD2 check.

Does the repair shop have any professional affiliations?

Another great way to decide if the repair shop you are interested in has any affiliations. It can be ASE or ASA. The standards set to obtain these certifications is great, and not just every technician can have these. It shows a higher standard and one that should take into consideration for your vehicle service.

What is your first reaction from the repair shop?

Possibly one of the biggest parts of picking the right BMW repair shop is just to trust your instincts about the shop itself. If you, off the bat, aren’t having a great feeling, then it is wise not to trust your car there and to seek out a different repair shop.

Conclusion

Finding the right BMW repair shop doesn’t have to be as challenging as you might think. Follow these easy tips, and you will most certainly find a shop that will take care of both you and your BMW.

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What Are The Causes Of Brake Failure?

In your vehicle, the brake pedal connects to the pistons, which connects to the brakes themselves. Most recent cars have disc front brakes and drum rear brakes. When your brakes function well, their primary purpose is to stop your vehicle through causing friction. In front brakes, friction will hold the brake calipers and pads. In rear brakes, the friction hits the brake drums and shoes.

What causes brake failure? Several factors interfere with the proper function of your vehicle’s brakes. Grease or oil on your brakes causes lead to failure. This oil will interfere with the friction of your brakes. This issue also means that your vehicle may have an oil leak.

In the warmer months, there is also the possibility of overheating. When brakes overheat to a moderate to a severe level, the metal in the brake rotors or drums will develop. This incident is what are known as hard stops. These are also called hot spots. Hot spots resist the friction from the brake shoes and pads. Because the shoes or pads cannot grab onto anything, there is no friction, and your brakes have failed.

If you tend to brake hard or ‘ride the brake’ as you drive, you can also cause brake failure in your vehicle. It also happens with those who are nervous drivers and are always braking due to their anxiety. These drivers cause premature brake failure due to an issue known as crystallized brake pads or shoes. Production of heat will then occur, caused by repeated overuse. After which, the pads and shoes grow hard. When they become hard, they are going to be ineffective because brake material must be flexible and able to grip the disc or drum to stop the vehicle.

At Ryan G. Motor Works, you will find real Auburn German auto specialists. Since 2008, our in-house technician has been serving the Auburn, California area with master-level service. If you are looking for high-quality and reliable brake repair, Ryan GMW is truly the expert in the field. When it comes to life and death situation such as proper brake function, never take a chance.

Although Ryan GMW is your premiere expert team for all services BMWs, Audis, Mercedes, Porsches, and Ferraris, customers can also find the best bike repair service in the surrounding area.

Be sure to remain aware of the state of your vehicle’s brakes. Make sure that regular brake repair service is conducted to ensure that your vehicle is safe to be on the road. Brakes are more than a way to stop properly at a red light but can be a matter of life and death for not only yourself but every other driver on the road with you. Check out our BMW services page today for more information.

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What Is The Oil Light For In A Car?

Oil is more than vital for your vehicle: it brings life. The oil circuit starts in the oil pan, and your oil pump will take the lubricating fluid and distribute it to passages around the block. It is directed to the crankshaft bearings, camshaft bearings, valve shifts, and other moving parts in your engine and the surrounding area.

Modern formulations often include detergents, so the owner’s manual recommends regular oil changes and filter changes. These natural changes keep your engine happy and running well. However, your vehicle can experience slight drops in oil pressure, and when instances like it happen, do not ignore.

For most vehicles, the oil light is either a tiny oil can or an indicator that says ‘oil’ or something along those lines. But what does the oil light mean?

Stop the car: one of your first steps, after you notice that your oil light has come on, is to stop because this will not be a drill. When the oil light comes on, it means that your engine has suffered a drop in oil pressure. Without this oil pressure, it cannot self-lubricate, and it will ‘self-destruct.’ It is never going to be news that you can take lightly. If you fail to replace your oil on time, your engine will incur high damage internally. It is truly a ticking time bomb.

Whether you immediately pull into the shop or go home, you need to be aware that you may not have enough time on your side, so do not take an oil pressure for granted. Stopping your car to understand the issue is key.

A primary cause of low oil pressure in your vehicle will point to little oil. If there is not enough oil to keep up with the pump’s demand, there will not be oil pressure at all for very short periods of time. While this does not sound serious, a minute without oil pressure can ultimately ruin your engine.

Another cause for a bright oil light is a failing oil pump. An engine is rarely so revved up that an oil passage becomes blocked to the point of reduced oil pressure. It can happen, but typically, this is due to a failing oil pump or blockage. It is the most likely cause of low oil pressure.

Whether you are riding along the highway or in the city, you should always try to immediately stop when you see that your oil light comes on. Check your oil, and add engine oil if you have it available. After adding engine oil, check to see if the light goes off. If it does not, take your car into the shop. Although you may not want to incur those shop fees, it will be much worse if you suffer severe damage to your engine, and possibly to your vehicle.

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How Often Should You Change Your Car Fuel Filter?

You may not realize how important it is to change your fuel filter, but it is never too late to learn. To help preserve the life of your car, educate yourself on the inner workings of your vehicle, including the importance of the fuel system filter.

Your vehicle’s fuel system, most obviously, has a vital job in the grand scheme. It stores and supplies the gasoline, or diesel fuel, that your vehicle needs to run. The fuel pump acts as the heart in your body: it will pump fuel through the fuel lines. The fuel filter will grab anything that could be potentially harmful to your vehicle. The key segments of the fuel system are the fuel pump, fuel gauge, fuel tank, fuel filter, fuel lines, and fuel injectors.

Focusing on the fuel filter: this component of the fuel system is required to maintain a clean flow of fuel through to your engine. Some vehicles have two fuel filters: one filter being inside the fuel tank, and the other in-line between the fuel tank and the engine. Some vehicles have just one fuel filter, which has an integration with the fuel pump module assembly.

Fuel filters serve a vital function for your engine. Unfiltered fuel can contain several harmful materials: rust, dirt, and other debris. Your fuel filter will remove these materials because, if it cannot, they can cause damage to high-precision components. When fewer contaminants are present in the fuel that your vehicle uses, the more efficiently you will use it – the more efficiently your vehicle will run. If a fuel filter becomes clogged, the fuel pump must work hard to get pump past the clog. This issue can lead to damage in the electric fuel pump.

Now that you understand the importance of the fuel system filter, you may wonder how often to change fuel filter. If your transportation has a replaceable in-line fuel filter, it is an excellent idea to replace it every 30,000 miles. A few good indications that you need to change your fuel filter are wear and rust. The other systems will include the hard starts, idling, hesitation, fuel leaks, the smell of fuel, and poor overall vehicle performance. If you notice these signs and are not sure, seek a professional’s advice.

A properly running fuel filter system will make sure that your vehicle runs efficiently on the fuel that it needs. All toxins are for removal, and only vital energy is added into your vehicle’s engine.

If you have gone unchecked, your fuel filter may cease to work well. Debris and other potentially harmful materials will get into your fuel and your engine and dramatically affect the performance – and lifetime – of your vehicle. The importance of regular vehicle maintenance is to help increase its life.

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Change Your Oil, Change The Life Of Your Car

Oil is the heart of your vehicle. It offers the proper lubrication and protection that keeps every car running smoothly and efficiently. An oil change is a pivotal part of regular maintenance of your vehicle. You may ask: how does driving around affect how often I will need an oil change? After all, your car is designed for driving. Here are some of the conditions that will ultimately influence the life of your oil.

Whether your oil lasts or needs changing more often than usual will depend on your driving habits. In ideal conditions, cruising on the highway will allow your oil to stay at the perfect temperature. Fuel and water should not be accumulating under these circumstances. Now, if you are driving at high speeds, your fast acceleration and speeding can raise the temperature of your oil and reduce its viscosity, which will expose the engine to greater wear.

If you drive primarily within city limits, there are also issues that you may encounter that cause you to change oil more often. Frequent starts and stops, which are also common problems on the highway, hurt your vehicle because oil is not able to sufficiently warm up. It may accumulate water and fuel due to prolonged idling. It will cause the build-up of corrosion and sludge.

A regular oil change is basic vehicle maintenance; driving correctly can ensure that this does not need to happen more often than it normally should.

Weather can also affect the oil in your vehicle. At lower temperatures, oil will thicken, and that will reduce pumping efficiency. Thus, it will take longer for your car to reach engine parts so that it can provide the protection and lubrication that it should. On the other hand, warmer conditions can make it harder to keep the motor cool. Engine oils are not designed to perform under high temperatures. These oils will lose the ability to protect the engine’s moving parts as quickly as if they were at optimal temperatures.

You can help to reduce the cost of oil change over time by not pushing your vehicle through unnecessary speeding, stopping, or other demanding conditions. Oils are ultimately designed to operate at higher temperatures and will help keep your engine protected. It will contribute to prolong your engine’s life and help it to run more efficiently.

However, there is something to be said about unpredictability: you cannot always avoid those sudden stops if you have the highway to work each morning. Some conditions simply cannot help. It can be a big help if you are going to pay attention to the status of your engine and when you check the engine oil. Never let this go: your vehicle will suffer for it, and you could lose it prematurely.

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Is It A Starter Or Battery Problem?

You are having a problem starting your car; it is slow cranking, or when you turn the key to start it the lights dim, or you hear absolutely nothing or you hear a clicking.

These things can indicate either a starter or battery problem. However, these symptoms can also indicate other problems.

If you are unsure which it is, you can bring your vehicle to an Auburn BMW Repair shop that can help you by testing your battery and starter.

Signs Your Battery Is Getting Weak

Your battery can become weak over time. Here are a few signs that your battery is becoming weak;

  • Your car cranks slower
  • You hear clicking when you turn your key or press the start button
  • The car started yesterday but won’t start or was extremely slow starting the next day
  • Battery terminals are corroded
  • The battery case looks bloated
  • Your battery is older than 3 years old

If you notice any of those problems, a BMW Repair Rocklin shop can help you.

How To Maintain Your Battery?

There are some things you can do to help maintain your battery and keep it working well.

  • Check the battery post/connections for corrosion and clean it off. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a cup of warm water, stir it up. Pour the mixture over the terminals and use a wire brush to remove the corrosion.
  • Make sure the connections are tight.
  • Check the fluid inside the battery if your battery has lids to do that.
  • Visually inspect the outside for leaks which can cause corrosion, bulging of the battery, or other signs that your battery does not look right.

Signs Your Starter Is Going Bad

As with other parts on your vehicle over time your starter will wear out; what are the signs that your start is going bad?

  • When you start your car, you hear any of the following sounds; buzzing, whirring, grinding, or clicking
  • Your lights dim when you start your car

If You Think Your Starter Is Going Bad, Here Are Some Things You Can Do

If you are having trouble starting your car and think it may be your starter;

  • Make sure all the connections are tight; that includes bolts that mount it.
  • Make sure the wires are not frayed or showing through the coating.

Understanding The Ignition System Of Your Vehicle

There are several parts to your ignition system;

  • The battery provides electrical power to the other components
  • The electrical current is sent through the alternator
  • The starter when the key is turned brings the electrical current from the battery through the alternator to start the vehicle.

Getting Help For Your Starter Or Battery

If you have been experiencing issues when starting your car and are unsure of what it is or how to fix it; bring your vehicle into BMW Repair and we will test the battery and starter for you.

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How Often Should You Oil Change Your Car?

How often you should change the oil in your car will depend on the make and model of the car, how the car is, and what type of oil is put in the car’s engine.

You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on what type of oil you use.

If you prefer to take your car to a shop to have the oil changed; stop by a BMW Service Rocklin shop.

What will you need to do an oil change?

Here are the things you will need in order to do the oil change yourself;

  • An oil drain pan; these can be found in any automotive parts store
  • A few rags; in case you spill the oil
  • The correct wrench or socket
  • Safety glasses to protect your eyes from oil, dirt, rust, and other debris that could fall from the bottom of the car
  • Oil filter: these come in different shapes and size as well as different qualities so make sure you get the correct one for your auto; some oil filters are only good for 3000 miles other one are good for 5000 miles
  • Oil; check your owner’s manual/guide to see how many quarts are required and what weight of oil should be used 10W40 10W30 etc.
  • A jack and jack stands as well as wheel blocks

Step by step guide for changing oil in your car.

If you change the oil yourself make sure you have everything gathered together before draining oil from your car.

Step one: The first step is to put the emergency brake on, block the back wheels with something like a large concrete block, then jack the front up and place a jack stand under each side. This will allow you to have room to get under the car to the oil pan of the vehicle.

Step two: using the wrench or socket loosen the drain plug and allow the oil to drain. Also remove the used oil filter, before placing the new filter on car dip your gloved finger into some fresh auto oil and gently rub it around the gasket “oh ring” on the filter. Hand-tighten the filter, do not over tighten.

Step three: Replace the drain plug, and fill the auto engine with oil. Make sure there are no drips or leaks before taking the vehicle off the jack stands and starting the engine.

Now if this sounds like it might be too intense or you do not have time you can always come by BMW Service for an oil change.

Why oil changes are important?

The reason you need to do oil changes on timed intervals of 3000 or 5000 miles depending on the owner’s guide is to make sure your engine runs well and last a long time.

It is also good for the resale price if you have your records to show you maintained the engine.

If you are in the area, swing by a Auburn BMW service shop to take care of that oil change.

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Common BMW Problems & Repair Tips

When considering buying a used BMW, there are some common problems you should be on the lookout. Some years and models are prone to more complaints than others. Keep this in mind. It is always a good idea to do your research before making an investment into a used car. These are not all the issues that could arise, but they are the most frequent mechanical problems experienced by BMW owners.

1. Check Engine Light appears, even though it runs great. This little mischief maker can drive a person crazy. No one likes to see the light on the dash especially when it doesn’t seem like there is a reason for it. Often the reason for this to occur is an emission leak somewhere in the air intake system. However, if the check engine light does appear don’t delay. Ryan G. Motorworks has an in-house BMW master technician who has the experience, and that will resolve even the most complex issues. All BMW service will provide the accurate diagnosis, and an expert technician solves all problems.

2. Electrical Problems that are mostly in association with windshield wiper functions can range from easy fixes to more complex. It is best to get it diagnosed quickly. It could be as simple as a ground issue. Frayed wires can cause systems to go crazy.

3. Blower Motor for heat and air conditioning stops working or doesn’t function correctly, whenever there is a failure of the blower motor or an electrical issue associated with the fan motor. These are found most commonly on the older 5 and three series.

4. Engine Oil and coolant mixing, not exactly what you might think: This is a common problem that is most often confused as a blown head gasket. It has similar symptoms such as a buildup of oil in the cooling reservoir and overheating. However, it is the oil cooler gasket that has failed.

5. Engine Misfires accompanied by the Check Engine Light, or CEL. That whole sentence is enough to make anyone cringe when thinking about car problems. The most common symptom of a misfire is the engine running rough. More than likely it is related to a bad ignition coil or even a hose that has collapsed. Again, if you see a CEL, it is best to get it looked at right away. You can trust Ryan G. Motorworks to accurately diagnose any CEL issues with the expert team of master BMW technicians.

BMW SERVICE AND BMW REPAIR

It is best always to do research when getting a used car, but hopefully, after reading these top 5 common problems to be on the lookout for you can save yourself some headache. If you happen to pick up a BMW for your next car, have a skilled and trained professional such as Ryan G. Motorworks on your side. They will keep it running as good as the day it rolled off the lot.

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Pros & Cons Of Buying A Used Car

Often when purchasing a new to you, used car, getting caught up in the excitement of a new car day can overshadow what you should be focusing. There are many things to consider when buying a BMW, including common issues, and where you are going have your BMW repairs done. Stop by Ryan G. Motorworks and they can inspect it for you after your purchase. Let’s take a minute to examine some of the pros and cons of buying a used BMW.

IT IS A FOREIGN CAR MANUFACTURER (CON)

With this in mind, some things are universally true about foreign cars. Parts are a little more expensive and sometimes harder to find. It is a general rule of thumb as well that owning a non-domestic vehicle you should have a great BMW repair shop on hand for your routine maintenance. Grass Valley BMW Repair can handle any issue that arises.

IT IS A FOREIGN CAR MANUFACTURER (PRO)

While it is a con being a foreign car, it can also be a pro. Parts have been proven to last longer than most domestic vehicles. So while it may be a bit more expensive to fix, parts wise, it won’t happen near as often as a chevy or ford.

BMW HAS ALWAYS BEEN FAMOUS FOR QUALITY OF INTERIOR (PRO)

With higher end finishes there is a reason why BMW’s are so in demand. They just only look good. Instead of the cheap looking interior, they offer premium leather, with typically all the options that could be available to you. What’s not to love about heated leather seats or a premium sound system?

QUALITY OF THE MOTOR AND TRANSMISSION (PRO)

For years BMW has been recognized for their reliability when it comes to the key components of their cars, this primarily includes the motor and Trans. With a higher hp and torque available to you it is more fun to drive knowing you aren’t going to be damaging the heart of your car.

COST OF THE VEHICLE (PRO/CON DEPENDING)

If you are planning to buy off a dealership, a used BMW can run you quite a bit more. Often to get the upgraded year or better options or even lower mileage you are going to be paying a hefty premium. On the other hand, if you buy off high individual saving could be had. However buying off an individual doesn’t always dictate the greatest condition. If you opt to get one, you have to make sure that you bring it to a service center to get all routine maintenance done. Ryan GMW serves many locations, including a BMW repair shop Truckee.

CONCLUSION

If you are in the game to get a new BMW, the best advice is to take your time and look over your options. Consider the pros and cons. If after you made your selection and decided to become a BMW owner, ensure that you have a BMW repair shop. Ryan G. Motorworks has a master technician who specializes in ALL BMW’s, and expert technician resolves all problems. Feel confident knowing your BMW will be in good hands, and they will keep it running like new whether you have 10,000 miles or 100,000.