[BMW Guy]

As the title suggests, I'm trying to decide on my next car project. I'm going to list everything on my in the near future to-do list and anyone is free to mention what they think I should make my next priority:
New front Michelin PS AS4 tires. My current tires aren't below the minimum tread depth it's just that I replaced my back ones a few months ago and the front tires are kind of becoming brittle and starting to crack in someplace.
Buy new rims such as these: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-wheels/drag-dr-67 I sadly can't afford some of the nicer options for wheels and I like the design of these wheels. Any other budget wheel options you guys know of feel free to post the link to them.
Switch out my beige floor mats for some black ones. My beige ones are impossible to keep clean.
Replace my broken left cup holder.
Replace the right front passenger-side door handle that is beyond destroyed.
Buy the BMS intake.
Buy the Crowl delete kit.
Let's leave it at that tell I can think of what else I need to add. These are projects that I would be doing in the next few weeks or months. So, which one should I choose?

[lowrydr310]

I don't understand any benefit to the cowl delete. It rains like 1-2 weeks a year where I live and I like having the protection.

[BMW Guy]

Originally Posted by lowrydr310

I don't understand any benefit to the cowl delete. It rains like 1-2 weeks a year where I live and I like having the protection.

It makes your engine bay look cleaner, and it also makes working on the back of your engine a lot easier. Also, the kit comes with the ECU and brake reservoir cover so those are still protected. I get your point which is why I am kinda hesitant about whether or not to ever do this.

[whyzee125]

Tires first since that's a safety thing and will also make it more enjoyable to drive.

I like those wheels and like that they're not a super common choice on this platform.

Tackle the cupholder and the mats at once. I have some almost brand new carpet black ones I'd sell--I'm moving to weathertech liners.

IMO keep the stock cowl or move to the M3 one. I like less moisture/humidity in the cabin and I also don' like intake noise but that's just me.

[lowrydr310]

Meh. I don't care what my engine compartment looks like as long as it's clean.

I'd focus on the little details like interior stuff first. I personally like as close to flawless interior as possible, such as functional cup holders, all lights working, all buttons/switches working, and no peeling trim anywhere.

Leave the wheels and tires alone for now until the tires are worn. Another personal opinion, but I think any factory wheel is better than any cheap aftermarket wheel.

Cone filters have zero benefit for performance, but they sure do sound cool. I plan to do that soon for my 335.

[BMW Guy]

Originally Posted by whyzee125

I also don' like intake noise but that's just me.

But the turbo Whoosing is sooooooo cool!

[BMW Guy]

Originally Posted by lowrydr310

Meh. I don't care what my engine compartment looks like as long as it's clean.

I'd focus on the little details like interior stuff first. I personally like as close to flawless interior as possible, such as functional cup holders, all lights working, all buttons/switches working, and no peeling trim anywhere.

Leave the wheels and tires alone for now until the tires are worn. Another personal opinion, but I think any factory wheel is better than any cheap aftermarket wheel.

Cone filters have zero benefit for performance, but they sure do sound cool. I plan to do that soon for my 335.

Ok. I think the floor mats would probably be my next move since my current ones are really bothering me. Any suggestions for which ones to buy? I want them to be black.

[BMW Guy]

I forgot to add that Engine and transmission mounts would be on that list somewhere. Not a must right now but something that would probably be a need in the future. Another thing I forgot to add is Lowering springs.

[3PedalJake]

Do the door handle first that's a functional part. Then all the rest in any order except the cowl delete. Don't do that. The cowl is there for a bunch of reasons, the least important is it's name cabin filter housing. Also the wiring harness hangs there so it's not sitting on the engine cover. The 2 most important things are channeling water into your drains and separating the engine bay from the cabin air intake. Without the cowl you're sucking engine bay air straight into the cabin.

[BMW Guy]

Originally Posted by 3PedalJake

Do the door handle first that's a functional part. Then all the rest in any order except the cowl delete. Don't do that. The cowl is there for a bunch of reasons, the least important is it's name cabin filter housing. Also the wiring harness hangs there so it's not sitting on the engine cover. The 2 most important things are channeling water into your drains and separating the engine bay from the cabin air intake. Without the cowl you're sucking engine bay air straight into the cabin.

Thanks for the response. I guess that officially puts the crowl delete option out of my to-do list. Does the door handle come in two parts like this: https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw...mw-51416971294
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw...ge-51417230854

[BMW Guy]

You know what I really want? This:https://vehiclevirals.com/products/i...igital-cluster
I had this in my old BMW and it was sooooo cool.

[StradaRedlands]

I love the Ikon M3 spoiler... consider one of those for the looks!
https://ikonmotorsports.com/products...43242717380832

[BMW Guy]

Originally Posted by StradaRedlands

I love the Ikon M3 spoiler... consider one of those for the looks!
https://ikonmotorsports.com/products...43242717380832

Thanks though I actually already ordered a different one: https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ecs-part...als&utm_term=1
Kinda wish I would have seen that one first since it is cheaper.

[StradaRedlands]

Originally Posted by BMW Guy

Thanks though I actually already ordered a different one: https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ecs-part...als&utm_term=1
Kinda wish I would have seen that one first since it is cheaper.

I'm sure it's a good one! They are a nice little addition that I think gives the cars a little more visual interest while still being subtle.

[BRG_N54]

Originally Posted by BMW Guy

anyone is free to mention what they think I should make my next priority:

1) Replace entire cooling system; radiator expansion tank, thermostat, water pump and all associated hoses. Replace micky mouse flange with metal upgrade.

2) Coils and spark plugs.

3) Replace voltage regulator. Maybe new battery while your at it?

4) Do OFH gasket and while your there, serpentine belt and all pulleys.

5) Oil pan gasket and motor mounts.

6) Transmission service. If auto drain and fill, replace pan and bridge seals, mechatronic seals.

7) Rear diff fluid change, front diff also if xDrive.

Just a small sampling of things I would tackle before rims and cosmetic changes. Those will do no good if you drop a water pump on the highway.

[BMW Guy]

Originally Posted by BRG_N54

1) Replace entire cooling system; radiator expansion tank, thermostat, water pump and all associated hoses. Replace micky mouse flange with metal upgrade.

2) Coils and spark plugs.

3) Replace voltage regulator. Maybe new battery while your at it?

4) Do OFH gasket and while your there, serpentine belt and all pulleys.

5) Oil pan gasket and motor mounts.

6) Transmission service. If auto drain and fill, replace pan and bridge seals, mechatronic seals.

7) Rear diff fluid change, front diff also if xDrive.

Just a small sampling of things I would tackle before rims and cosmetic changes. Those will do no good if you drop a water pump on the highway.

1. Entier cooling system? The water pump and thermostat were replaced at 60k I believe. The expansion tank was replaced 5k miles ago. MM flanged was replaced 24 hours ago. The previous owner replaced a bunch of the cooling hoses but I don't know exactly which ones. And the Radiator I am going to wait on until it starts weeping. Coolant temps are always fine so I think I'm pretty much good on this for now.
2. Plugs were replaced 1k miles ago. Coils were replaced 20k miles ago and are in great shape.
3. Voltage regulator? The battery is reading fine so I'm good there.
4. OFHG was already done at around 80k I believe. Belts and pulling I am not sure about. Though the belt is sitting properly on the pulling so I think I'm good for now. Though definitely something that needs addressing down the road.
5. Oil pan done at 90k. Motor and trans mounts are coming soon.
6. Trans Fluid changed twice, filter changed once this year. The trans was and still is completely dry so I'm waiting on seals.
7. Diff has been done this year.
Thanks for the detailed list. I'm sure these are all good ideas but unfortunately, I do not have the money right now to replace parts, like the entire cooling system, that have not yet broken. Certain parts I know I need to replace before they break, like belts, pulling, and gaskets, but for some of the other ones, I would need to wait on tell they absolutely needed to be done. Really appreciate the suggestions!
P.S. The water pump was not specifically stated as being replaced on the car fax report, only that the thermostat was replaced.
Am I assuming too much? I find it hard to believe that the water pump could have lasted to 100k without breaking. Also, for the OFHG, it stated Oil filter adapter seal replaced which I am guessing means OFHG. Am I correct or do I need to stop making guesses?

[BRG_N54]

Originally Posted by BMW Guy

1. Entier cooling system? The water pump and thermostat were replaced at 60k I believe. The expansion tank was replaced 5k miles ago. MM flanged was replaced 24 hours ago. The previous owner replaced a bunch of the cooling hoses but I don't know exactly which ones. And the Radiator I am going to wait on until it starts weeping. Coolant temps are always fine so I think I'm pretty much good on this for now.

It's no so much mileage, with cooling system parts, as age. Even when the car is not being used, the coolant becomes more acidic and causes the plastic to break down. These turbocharged engines create a much bigger heat flux than NA motors and thus have more stress on these critical parts.

Originally Posted by BMW Guy

3. Voltage regulator? The battery is reading fine so I'm good there.

Again I must state, these cars are old. The voltage regulator has brushes in it that wear out and will need to be replaced, it's a consumable item, like brake pads. It's only $50US for a new Bosch part and it bolts to the back of the alternator with basic tools. You can run what you have, but before you go for things like lowering springs, I would look into safeguarding the basic health of the vehicle electrical system.

Originally Posted by BMW Guy

4. Belts and pulling I am not sure about. Though the belt is sitting properly on the pulling so I think I'm good for now. Though definitely something that needs addressing down the road.

The belt an pully set is under $200. With all the horror stories about belts getting sucked into crank seals, seems like a no brainer to me?

Originally Posted by BMW Guy

6. Trans Fluid changed twice, filter changed once this year. The trans was and still is completely dry so I'm waiting on seals.

The seals I am referring to are inside the transmission, and will not show any external signs. (maybe the mechatronic sleeve) Again, over time the rubber will harden and not seal as well as it should.

Originally Posted by BMW Guy

Thanks for the detailed list. I'm sure these are all good ideas but unfortunately, I do not have the money right now to replace parts, like the entire cooling system, that have not yet broken.

But you have the money to buy a complete set of rims and tires? Waiting on maintenance items for a 13 year old car is just a bomb waiting to go off in your wallet. I am just trying to be realistic about financial priorities for these vehicles. They are high strung thoroughbreds, which need pre-emptive replacements and vigorous maintenance plans in order to meet the expectations of the modern motorist.

Originally Posted by BMW Guy

Certain parts I know I need to replace before they break, like belts, pulling, and gaskets, but for some of the other ones, I would need to wait on tell they absolutely needed to be done. Really appreciate the suggestions!

A 13 year old BMW may not have been the ideal vehicle for you then, IMHO.

Originally Posted by BMW Guy

P.S. The water pump was not specifically stated as being replaced on the car fax report, only that the thermostat was replaced. Am I assuming too much? I find it hard to believe that the water pump could have lasted to 100k without breaking.

Yes, you are assuming too much. Unless you have the invoice from the shop that did the work, Carfax reports are spotty at best. It can give you some sort of indication that work was probably done, but that's about it. Get under the car and look at the water pump, most of them have date codes. Be sure for yourself, never conclude based on another's observations.

Originally Posted by BMW Guy

Also, for the OFHG, it stated Oil filter adapter seal replaced which I am guessing means OFHG. Am I correct or do I need to stop making guesses?

It sure sounds like it, but again, without receipts from the previous owner(s) it's all hearsay. Inspect the area for yourself, can you see where it was cleaned during the repair? Do you notice any evidence of oil residue?

I am old, not necessarily smart, but with lots of experience to draw my opinions from. Again these are just my opinions, some of which are not welcomed around these forums, but in the end I am really just trying to help.

[BMW Guy]

Originally Posted by BRG_N54

It's no so much mileage, with cooling system parts, as age. Even when the car is not being used, the coolant becomes more acidic and causes the plastic to break down. These turbocharged engines create a much bigger heat flux than NA motors and thus have more stress on these critical parts.



Again I must state, these cars are old. The voltage regulator has brushes in it that wear out and will need to be replaced, it's a consumable item, like brake pads. It's only $50US for a new Bosch part and it bolts to the back of the alternator with basic tools. You can run what you have, but before you go for things like lowering springs, I would look into safeguarding the basic health of the vehicle electrical system.



The belt an pully set is under $200. With all the horror stories about belts getting sucked into crank seals, seems like a no brainer to me?



The seals I am referring to are inside the transmission, and will not show any external signs. (maybe the mechatronic sleeve) Again, over time the rubber will harden and not seal as well as it should.



But you have the money to buy a complete set of rims and tires? Waiting on maintenance items for a 13 year old car is just a bomb waiting to go off in your wallet. I am just trying to be realistic about financial priorities for these vehicles. They are high strung thoroughbreds, which need pre-emptive replacements and vigorous maintenance plans in order to meet the expectations of the modern motorist.



A 13 year old BMW may not have been the ideal vehicle for you then, IMHO.



Yes, you are assuming too much. Unless you have the invoice from the shop that did the work, Carfax reports are spotty at best. It can give you some sort of indication that work was probably done, but that's about it. Get under the car and look at the water pump, most of them have date codes. Be sure for yourself, never conclude based on another's observations.



It sure sounds like it, but again, without receipts from the previous owner(s) it's all hearsay. Inspect the area for yourself, can you see where it was cleaned during the repair? Do you notice any evidence of oil residue?

I am old, not necessarily smart, but with lots of experience to draw my opinions from. Again these are just my opinions, some of which are not welcomed around these forums, but in the end I am really just trying to help.

I really appreciate the help. I knew the discussion about owning a 13-year BMW might not be the right car for me would come into our conversation. Financially speaking this would definitely be correct. But unfortunately, I'm one of those BMW car enthusiasts who just can't help myself. I am still living at home with my parents while I finish college so I don't have many bills. When I bought the car, I told myself that I would have to accept the risk of potentially one day having to have my parents drive me to work because of a issue with my car. Thankfully, I have only had to do that once which was when I was installing my intercooler and I had to leave it over night. I have had the car for 8 months which isn't much.
Belts, pullys, and the voltage regulator will be added to my list for sure. You can see when the OFHG was leaking before by the mess around the housing. It is dry now and when I clean it it doesn't come back to I must not be leaking right now. Thanks again.

[lordnikon]

Definitely tires.