Oli77's other maintenance thread: 2010 E93 space grey, 6MT

[Oli77]

Tell me what you know and think about the E93 please!

I am thinking about trading in my 2015 2L T Audi A6 Premium Plus quatro to get back into a BMW with a 6 cylinder and 6 speeds.

I found this E93 (55K miles) at CarMax near Baltimore and realize I will loose a bit a money doing this but I find the Audi terribly boring to drive.

The E93 is here (https://www.carmax.com/car/18367712)

There are some nice lines to it, nice seats, and a sport package I think.

There was a small accident with it like 8 years ago. No airbag deployment.

Too expensive I think, but I am not sure so I ask my Mafia friends.


Thanks for looking,

Olivier

[fredo]

That vert is nicely loaded. Mdecoder ( https://www.mdecoder.com/decode/px12253 ) reports this :

M Sports package
M Sports suspension
M Aerodynamics package

The N52 engine is very reliable. There's one guy in the e90 forum with a 2006 E90 330i. He's at around 400k miles with just regular svc and mtc. On the down side, you would be going from a 2015 to a 2010 year model. You can expect small issues to happen sporadically. But they should be minimum.

Sounds like a fun car, and it looks very sharp. GL on your decision !

[Cabrio330]

I encourage anyone that is considering an E93 to research and test drive an E93 335is with DCT. Or 6-speed if you prefer. Either way, the car is sublime in a way similar to the ZHP.

[ZHPizza]

I encourage anyone that is considering an E93 to research and test drive an E93 335is with DCT. Or 6-speed if you prefer. Either way, the car is sublime in a way similar to the ZHP.

To be fair, the N52 in this car is super reliable as fredo mentioned, while the N54 is a hot mess of issues. A badass hot mess, though.

@704sw and I drove a 335is with DCT and found it to be a snoozefest. I couldn't wait to get back in the e46 after that. I'd still like to drive a 135/335 with a 6 speed and see if it makes the N54 as fun as people say it is.

[704sw]

To be fair, the N52 in this car is super reliable as fredo mentioned, while the N54 is a hot mess of issues.

@704sw and I drove a 335is with DCT and found it to be a snoozefest. I couldn't wait to get back in the e46 after that.


I encourage anyone that is considering an E93 to research and test drive an E93 335is with DCT. Or 6-speed if you prefer. Either way, the car is sublime in a way similar to the ZHP.

While I’d certainly prefer a DCT to a torque converter AT, I don’t know if rolling the N54 vs. N55 dice is worth the gamble to get it. I wouldn’t own an N54 unless it was (a) not my only car, (b) I did all my own labor, and (c) had a lot of extra time to devote to it. That’s just not an engine I want to own if I’m paying someone else to turn the wrenches.

The N52, on the other hand, is basically just the next evolution in the M50/52/52TU/54 lineage. It’s laughably smooth across the entire power band, easy to work on, and has all the reliability of any BMW NA I6 before it. Sure, it has a few quirks, all NA BMW engines do—the N54 doesn’t have a quirky personality though, it has a personality disorder.

Will the N52 blow you away with power? No, it most certainly will not. But if you want N54 power in that price range and don’t need a big backseat you’re better off buying a Mustang or Camaro—both the LT1 or Coyote V8 offer more power with more reliability. But then again I don’t think power is end all be all for a car’s enjoyment (cough cough Miata).

@Oli77 this looks like a great car, but not knowing the E93 market I can’t comment on price. Space Grey is a gorgeous color, the miles are low, and it’s a “single hump� (no iDrive). I know a lot of people would find that as a negative, but I prefer it—10 year old technology is clunky. I’d certainly see what the market says in terms of price, and see what kind of room there is for negotiation. Between my old man’s 530i and my X3 we have about 250k miles on our two N52s, ~200k of those miles we put on the cars (both were bought CPO with 30k and 50k miles, respectively). The only engine-related issue either of us had was a warped valve cover on the X3 at about 110k. Everything else is just standard BMW stuff (the 3 common oil leaks, cooling system, etc.). The N52 also has an internal CCV so you don’t have to deal with that crap like on the E46.

[Cabrio330]

Never had a single issue in 150k miles with my N54, and throughout my ownership did not encounter others with issues. The version in the 335is did not have the HPFP issues or recall. It is inaccurate to say the N54 is a hot mess, i.e., worse than other contemporary BMW engines. Yes, there are non-engine potential issues to be aware of (e.g. water pump), but no more than for a ZHP. Is the N52 more reliable than an N54? On average, probably. Car by car, indiscernible. But we aren't discussing Toyotas in here!

As for the impression of the 335is DCT being a snoozefest, I can only disagree based on my experience and preferences and perhaps the OP is a rigid "stick only" guy. Admittedly, I may be jaded by my kids teasing me about my left calf being larger than my right!

[DeathTrap]

The only "issue" that the N52 has is that it can eat serpentine belts and brick your engine, but we're alway on top of maintenance here right?

[fredo]

I heard about that issue. I believe there's an oil leak that affects the belt. The trick is to fix it promptly.

[Oli77]

Thank you all for chiming in with real knowledge and expertise on different aspects/components of the car.

The car is going to come to Lexington and I will have a while to decide. Can't wait to see it.

Will drive it and report back but I appreciate everyone's help. I think it's the OFHG that may leak and destroys the belt.

Thanks for pointing to the no Idrive.

I looked at kbb value arethere other places I can check for the value of the car?

[fredo]

Edmunds.com is another good source.

[san]

you can also use NADA valuation


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[pedro2u]

and if you haven't done it yet, check the CarFax. I posted this yesterday after trying it - individual CarFax's for $4.98 here: https://www.autovhr.com/deal/

It works!

[Oli77]

Thank you all!

Bit of a sad face here as I am getting a vibe that this car should be valued at or under $10K!!!

[pedro2u]

where does that come from? KBB with 55K miles and just the M Package alone shows $11.1K to $12.8K when I run it.... https://www.kbb.com/bmw/3-series/2010/328i-convertible-2d/?vehicleid=261884&intent=buy-used&mileage=55000&pricetype=retail&options=5236624|true|4444896|true|4444900|true|295 5660|true|2955657|false|2955656|true|6323117|true| 2955690|true|2955689|false

[pedro2u]

and NADA clean retail of $13,350...... https://www.nadaguides.com/Cars/2010/BMW/3-Series/Convertible-2D-328i/Values

[fredo]

Thank you all!

Bit of a sad face here as I am getting a vibe that this car should be valued at or under $10K!!!

There was a local, similar car for sale recently. The asking price was $10k but it had close to 100k miles. And it didn't look very sharp.

[Oli77]

Thank you Pete for the links and making me realize that I was using the private seller price!!!
Thanks Fredo, I hope it's a sharp and clean car....

Next up, fing out how much they will pay for the audi.... Going there on Friday.

[fredo]

Any updates ? :dunno

[Oli77]

Thanks for asking Fredo. Yes.

The car is on its way and should be here next week. In the meantime I went to the local Audi dealer to get an idea on value for my A6, they said trade in value would be a whopping $12K. I test drove a Ford Focus RS and boy, that was fun, Recaro seats, pops and crackle in the back, 4 wheel drive... nice little thing. went on a joy right with it gave them the keys back.

Then I went to Carmax and they said $14.5K for the Audi.

I am hesitating going through the process of selling the Audi through the Audi Forum I am a member on. Audi world has not sold that car in the past year. Basically, I learned that no one drives the 2L T. And I doubt people would buy it. I could do that and put it up for sale at maybe 17K.... hesitating. Everything hinges on me falling in love (or not) with the E93 described above.

Welcome any thoughts, comments.....

[fredo]

Use the BC button to find out service status on the E93. Check this youtube video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfLrOA717TE

You can see info about the next oil change, front and rear brakes life, brake fluid flush … There's also reminders for the state inspection and vehicle inspection.

Just for fun, PM me your Audi VIN and miles and I can tell you what's the auction price in TX.

[Oli77]

I PMed you the VIN. Car has 70K miles a 2015.
Thanks

[fredo]

Just checking ... Did you have chance to test drive the vert ?

[Oli77]

No not yet, it is still in transit to me. Taking their sweet time, maybe going through texas on its' way from Baltimore to KY!

[Oli77]

The eagle has landed. Car is in Lexington, getting cleaned up and registered.
The way my week is shaping up, I won't go see it until Saturday and will report back on what I saw/ felt...

[fredo]

That's exciting news ! Here are a couple of small issues common on the E9x platform. My 2009 335 had both:

1) the radio pixels will fade
2) the door handles will peel and feel sticky

Let's find out if the vert has the above issues. The radio looks ok in the pics.

[Oli77]

It was a drizzly afternoon and these are my impressions.

Gorgeous outside clean all around on the outside with pristine wheels, tires at 5/32 (:(), paint looked uber nice but there was a layer of fine mist on it so, can't tell. I will go back tomorrow during the daylight.

OFHG is seeping, no humidity in the right headlight while there is some in the advert picture. Everything works. Trunk is mother heavy to lift open.

Brakes a pretty close to new and all computer function indicate >30,000 miles before next maintenance except oil at 15,000 miles. So looks like they changed the oil. That's about it and typical of my prior carmax experience.

Car feels tight and heavy, i did not hear sounds coming from the hardtop while going over tight corners into parking lots with bumps. I am used to the disensitizing Audi boat.

Engine is different that the E46 6 cylinder (my 325i). Not that impressed by the power even though it has >50 Hp compared to mine! Maybe I didn't push enough.

Seats are comfy, driver side bolster is thinning but plenty of leather to go. THat's good.

more to come...

[Oli77]

Obligatory pic https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191213/da399dab44213d7cfd48d7f156cb1e20.jpg

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[johnrando]

Beauty, congrats!

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[Oli77]

Thanks boss, but not yet!

Going for a second drive in another gray rainy day this PM.

[fredo]

Oli ... Any comments after your second test drive ?

[Oli77]

Long story short, I think I am buying the car.

It scratches an itch that is pretty deep, from getting back into a bimmer, one that is newer than my E46 (still in the family), to getting a 6 speed, a little more HP, to a smaller car to replace the large Audi A6, a convertible, and very pretty car with decent color apparently (I say that because I have no idea what it looks like in the sun). Every time I went it was grey and rainnish.

I know what I am getting into, ofhg seeping, front bumper sagging just a little but enough to disturb the seal around the right headlamp housing (humidity inside), new tires, runflats OMG!, maybe new wheels too for the winter and a second set of tires, or all season (I known, I know). Also to consider is the complexity of this monster of a roof that is hydraulic and amazing to watch operate. Its heavy, that hard top. I think you can feel it in the twisties.

Drive wise, it is a heavier chassis than the E46 and I think that the increased HP (my ZSP has ~180 HP, this I think has 230) is difficult to sense. It drives tight and I did a few twisties yesterday with it and the little orange flash in the cluster, seen in my peripheral vision, while the rear left wheel lost it for 23 ms put a grin on my face (no such thing with an Audi quattro, let me tell you). Car comes with summer tires potenza aei or something like that, so when I stomped on the brakes in the 40 degree weather we had yesterday, I was a little surprised when the car locked up one tire very briefly (tires are at ~5/32 left). If there is snow this winter, I am screwed.

I am not in love with the dash at all even though it is some kind of opal wood or ash color. Maybe it will grow on me.

I plan to go there after lunch today and decide, but I think I will be driving back in a bimmer!

So going back to the OP, Fredo and to answer your question, I feel like I pushed myself over the edge and will be happy for it. In the end the Audi A6 was a mistake, cost me lots of money, but I am not happy with it. Soooooo....

[Oli77]

Oh, and adaptive headlights! That should be cool too.

[fredo]

Sounds good, man ! Congrats, I see lots of smiles in your future. :roundel

[Oli77]

Grin[emoji108]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191215/67b6cb74abed83b91c8bc777ef5b59ba.jpg

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[holyc0w]

Nice wheels! and uhh.. nice wheels

[Oli77]

Thanks man, it is lovely. Been raining and it's gloomy out here so no Pic in the sun yet.

Very happy, it's the honey moon period.

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[az3579]

I could've swore 2010's were supposed to be LCI... what the heck?

I hope you enjoy this one more than the Audi.

[Oli77]

Thanks Boton I am immediately enjoying it more than the Audi and feel happy and much cozier in that small 3 series format. It has a lot a great touches and I got to see the lighting package in action last night (LED under door handles outside, lighted orange lines on the inside of the doors and in the back area).

I though it was post LCI because the E90 wiki said 2008.

I will continue using this thread to talk about the car and its maintenance, could a big boss move the thread to the Maintenance subforum?

I have some nuggets of data to include soon.

I also think these adaptive headlights are gorgeous and turn with the wheels!!!

[Oli77]

The seats are so comfortable! Total hug. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191217/51c9e656245a72579bd376576030b509.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191217/2296e5877abfc51ff2d388b0e9abc969.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191217/6f7f7408a058756129463f4a039a8ea2.jpg

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[pedro2u]

congrats on the new ride. I know when I got my E92, a laughed the first time i went around a sweeping right hander and my headlights lead the way..... Nice feature

[bandwagn]

I could've swore 2010's were supposed to be LCI... what the heck?

Convertibles are always last to get the updates ��*♂️

[John in VA]

Convertibles are always last to get the updates ��*♂️
As they're the last version to be released.

[Oli77]

You guys had me look it up on the internet and I guess you are right BP and the others, my car is pre-LCI.

A slightly rare bird it is! Thanks do Fredo for his effort and connection with someone who has sticky fingers, this is what he found out for me about production stats on this very E93



Between 2007-2010, 322 BMW 328i Convertible (WL13) - painted in Space Grey Metallic (A52) with Black Dakota Leather (LCSW) interior were built for the US market. 33 were manual (2 are M Sport), 289 automatic (6 are M Sport). So I have 1 of the 2 that were built with manual transmission in that color combo! That's like what? worth 10 HP right?


The most rare option in this car is option S710A - M leather steering wheel. It was installed on 21 out of 17,781 cars.


Thanks for the nuggets Fredo! And Thanks Rando for moving the thread and changing the title for me.

[Oli77]

Still in Europe, wanted to upload a few pics i had taken before leaving. First time i saw it with sun! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191230/b3a198547e2a49fcfe78a2306d4faca3.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191230/50d9ec188f9d672a1abd55324a6e0db8.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191230/5c5933702b59b00dbade8914a41fbb23.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191230/127704aaab6c525cff8614e369162d22.jpg

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[johnrando]

Nice!

[Oli77]

Thanks Rado, I'm itching to clean it thoroughly and make it mine.
Bought it and ran with it, then took off for 2 weeks in France.
I'll get on it and those wheels.
(I need the brush and the Sonax wheel cleaner I think)

[fredo]

Have you considered to replace the angel eyes ? BTW, this used to be my car.

https://bmw335i.com/2019/05/31/how-to-install-bmw-angel-eyes-stock-vs-led-comparison-335i-330i-328i

[Oli77]

Ouuuhhh, aaahhh, this might have to be my first mod.

So much to do.

Thanks for the link and the idea Fredo.

[Oli77]

Got acquainted with the rubber bits on the retractable roof, applied some of this and grease in key spots. Looks like the maintenance on this has never been done.

Do you guys use other products to maintain the hardtop? Apply every 6 months? https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200105/cd10134ca30cbdbfd34e45d729584f3d.jpg

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[Oli77]

Need some help from the convertible brothers or the e9x brothers.

The incoming call ringing is obnoxiously loud! Can I turn that down in the OBC menus? I am not seeing it. I also do not have the audio component booklet with that car so it is not easy to adjust some of the settings. I am OK with the USB music, paired phone and all that but would like to be able to lower the sounds of some of the alarms that turn on (e.g., icy roads, seat belts).

The car has a whine that I do not like, I will take it back to carmax to have them look at that.

I already took it back once to realign the front bumper which they did very well!

[Oli77]

Don't mind me as a spend a day cleaning. Tried to work on a little drip inside after heavy rain. Right side where hardtop first panel meets with windshield's rubber. Added some sticky stuff we use in the doors to maintain moisture barrier. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/1162bddf08ca156e5094b449a85c9e37.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/55b74210b885eb86d5e3352b87f2ec47.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/d48b7a568d52081986966a961bcb56f9.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/69fbd3e7f843dcf05ff02a1baeddcde0.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/799f36ccdefee7bb04c2447953714884.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/8a2ca9db8042195e2b59cb48010b9de5.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/da70b1ad32a52b7fb239085430809373.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/8d89a876e25b183495c9539237a9909c.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/d7bb6a699e6746fd11a5497af6f84e0c.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/00cc15df9fab1be61198e0ccabcd6545.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/0efd901d0db73835a85704a0dc074f1b.jpg

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[Oli77]

Forgot onehttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200112/20e3fe1b9b0d9e6e75852a1d773f8642.jpg

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[Oli77]

At 55,400 miles:

Changed cabin air filter (broke a tab, it's cold out tonight).

Changed engine air filter and cleaned MAF. Fixed a tab on the air duct around the hood latch.

Moved the 2 door strikers in, about 1.5-2 mm on each side, as the doors when not perfectly aligned with the back quarter panels and sticking out a bit.

Working on a leak at the a pillar meeting the roof panel passenger side with butyl tape. Might have to take the liner out on the front most roof panel to investigate if leak continues.

Got Carmax to agree with me that the car has a whine. They are changing the alternator and the power steering pump for free next week.

Would love a new belt and a belt tensioner while they are in there. If whining continues....

Bit of info: used the OBC to read code 7 and at operating temperature, car is reading 95 oC. Close to the e46 values.

[Oli77]

Still at 55K miles, Carmax replaced the alternator and power steering pump and the whine is gone! I can now hear engine below 2500 rpm! My mpg are taking a dip.

Told Carmax that there was a coolant leak around the driver side front, near radiator. So they replaced the radiator while they were in there because there was apparently a crack. Figured that is a bit premature. I changed the first radiator on my E46 at 110K miles.

I have a feeling that tightening the the car doors may have actually "fixed" the water leak at the A pillar. Time will tell, and a good rain.

Carmax experience has been very positive and sweet. As documented earlier, they took my Audi A6 at 2K over what Audi of Lexington wanted to pay for. So they give you a good price on your vehicle as a return customer. Then sure, I paid nearly $1500 more than I could have purchased this vehicle for, HAD IT BEEN available in the private sector. But then, they drove me to work and picked me up 3 times, changed 3 expensive items on the car and realigned my bumper . . . for free! That is sweet I think.

And there maybe more. As I was leaving, the person in charge of listening to my complaints said :" here is my card, call if you need anything or something isn't right".

And I take pictures

[Oli77]

Boomhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200121/b1cfa6ab43755335c13a51e0fc86674c.jpg

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[fredo]

Sounds good. Glad to hear you are a happy camper. :thumbup

[Oli77]

Here is video on the N52 engine (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gRhDKE8vKU). The one that replaced our M54.

I hear it is tunable relatively easily to deliver another 30 hp with a 330i intake for ~2000K in parts.

[johnrando]

Sweet

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[ZHPizza]

Damn that's a great CarMax experience. Good on them for supporting the sale.

[san]

That’s excellent customer support.

Is the warranty something you paid extra for or is it included with all the cars CarMax sells?


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[Oli77]

Included for first 3 months of ownership I think with all Carmax purchases.

[Oli77]

Le cheese ? https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200201/0f350844bd68ffaf0785769e5c2e383b.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200201/51d4ef90ecd902fbcab8e559339d9951.jpg

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[Oli77]

Made a stencil, cut my own sticky CF tape. Free mod .

Now I need to get rid of the yolk in my side blinkers.

Ideas?

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[Oli77]

Metalic paint! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200201/c971c76d2122c1a5b7185c17cbb2477e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200201/b417b773aee9fae1d5969ce5bc91ae4c.jpg

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[Oli77]

I removed my belt today because I still hear a a bit of a whine that I think should not be there if a BMW sounds like a BMW, or an M54 sounds like an N52.

Sure enough, the idler pulley spins freely.

So I will mention it to Carmax next time I go in to have them check the roof leaks. Might as well tell them about that before I start fixing the butyl tape myself.

More later.

[fredo]

That's a very creative solution for the side blinker bulb.

[Oli77]

Thanks Fredo, works real well too. I will take pics tomorrow while addressing your challenge.

[Oli77]

What a great day over here in the 60's, got to enjoy some nice top down sunny-side driving!

Appreciate how the engineers at BMW designed the car so that it changes the dynamics of the stereo and the air flow around the cabin when you drop the top! It's like you are driving in a cocoon of soft air, a cascade of warm air rolling off the top of the dash. You have to put the heat system on AUTO and it takes care of the flow of air to limit turbulences trying to run back into the cabin. It's brilliant with all the windows up, it's an awesome feeling! And the audio sound also plays with the speed and makes driving the car in this weather with top open, an absolute pleasure.

Can't wait to next weekend!

[Oli77]

Guess the Carmax folks went for the most expensive fix on the whine in the car. Sure changing the alternator and the power steering pump was a great idea (from my angle), but guess what sits right between the 2?

Yes, the idler pulley!

Bought one (URO, $20 shipped), put it in (15 minute job) with new bolt torqued at 36 Lbs/inch (should be 30 but that seemed light) and now ALL the whine is completely gone.

All engine now, no pulleys.

And yes, that pulley was free spinning a lot.

All that at 55,550 miles.

[johnrando]

Nice!

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[fredo]

Well done, sir !

[Oli77]

Caught the number in traffic. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200204/5ecbf1bae92e4b8cba67edca81139b5b.jpg

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[johnrando]

Good catch.

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[Oli77]

Weather is crap, indoor projects.

By A52 bmw paint pen. Make little plugs... https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/3eb2f56e2566d1211278b488a7619bb1.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/716e247710ed540eed4e9830776a8cf2.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/adf385c413b0db34c4cc58d85703a0ed.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/463b7b56fce2a507e09d17f0ec53b27a.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/ea2374e4659c329156c29d55b40672fa.jpg

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[Oli77]

The carmax story continues to amaze in a positive way. Well, we'll see tomorrow.

Today carmax said they didn't feel comfortable fixing my A pillar leaks. So they made an appointment for me tomorrow at the local bmw store in town.

In theory, carmax pays the dealership and car get fixed by a competent person to tackle this task. Will report back.

[fredo]

Sounds like carmax got a lifetime customer. Three months warranty is very generous. My wife bought her 2008 Saab in there back in 2010. I remember it was only one month warranty.

[Oli77]

Yes, I was told that this is a good plan (90 day warranty) and I am only about 60 days into it.

So, Carmax agreed to fix the leak at the BMW dealership. That's good news.

The bad news is that I have the impression from talking with the service man, that they are replacing the wrong part. If he is correct, they will replace the seal that is at the top of the windshield. In my opinion and from my reading on other forums, that is not the correct seal to change. But what do I know? I hope that they know what do do given the symptoms. And it has been raining non stop here for 3 days... I have a ghetto tuperware on my passenger side leg bolster.....

I will let them do the best they can. Carmax is paying for everything it seems.

Oh and setting up the airbag recall on the E46.

[johnrando]

Nice that they readily address the issues though.

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[Oli77]

That, and they give me a ride to work (from Carmax) within 5 minutes of dropping the car (if that!).
BMW dealer: only at 8:30 and 9:30!

[Oli77]

So BMW dealership changed the front seal, the one that is at top and both sides of the windshield. Price for ~700 paid by Carmax. Part was only $100 online, $160 at dealership + labor and butyl tape.

According to them it does not leak anymore! I hope they are right and need some rain to prove that!

Thought about doing a front cup holder delete. i don't use them and they are a bit of an eye sore.
I would have to pull them out and vinyl wrap the remaining trim piece.

Thought about doing yellow lamin-x on the old fog lights (just for looks).

[Oli77]

Washed car today. Lots of water on the roof and no water inside. So far so good.
Tweaked the colors on that first one. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200216/6a1e08042db407e835734cd786ca7ade.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200216/2bf70abb2f3667aa74ae7a26ec00bd36.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200216/ef109999b18a71eaa6c6e824ff7fafba.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200216/4826f9a06a4ce676a35f378b2735aabd.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200216/363f53052b2580bde6cea5017609596a.jpg

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[Oli77]

Did it

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ROByv4va6dhtK7ijFFfRnxlI4bFP0PzSNtLX-lVlX0gzCo_EfZK7W9HNMmhgu1lMylr9lVsy2l8UU4C8NWDRhFK gHXQSOPOcUsy9fuT7tmdpVYQcwYeZUMlqjKIOUWz7_HIe3TnER A=w1920-h1080

[fredo]

:like

[Oli77]

Thanks Fredo. Letting it sink in. I think I like it too. The old plastic was hazy on the inside and pretty beat up on the outside.
I tried to polish it clear but realized it will be hazy.
The yellow film, totally cleaned it up.

[johnrando]

Nice

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[Oli77]

Massive detailing the outside kinda day.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ba7MHNZbbFQad6KBEyr5V3-MdegcCEHw1NDBfTg4n7-g_5NIgYmC_GqSDe_XqjVZYcaYyciz8A0V0w4f7d-8X1yiVpxouJtuCwKSfOEWBPAVj68OYqHOtGcVJyhS5XZ8Sz_rB a4ng=w1920-h1080

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Igq7SPDok8k5gg3HbtxcRTAuHq5pkXk0IuBKxBrObupQiUFk9w 3nFG7Px17D8DsXx1adL4pAbehLQfULTnyc9rsm9YVRJIA8f8Gz ubrW_csV0OWQM-pgQh8ihgyrj3GXYXXkDB8veg=w1920-h1080

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/NXi0UZoDNW4w9EqwQgxzldH1x2MSZ4Ji66vAM7BSdbUnMoVZpq AoUAK71-P8qy6rxvS_yU3xiVZR8AGAS_AqT2YmirYKUe8R-CrpUkw5XIXenuCjfTYx52gTNOVhH0bPBFWfwhzwgg=w1920-h1080

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/c0vpNqGeT9mYx0reMX8YEbOxdvjeagrOvOchSs0YRepDte73FI LyfuLuYvIZUwjlGGuCdwITISvf-dx1HiXACcUWOXQDGG-Gv-rMDaRNbt15KZLLcWhWkYYXl3FmHzpXvjtXHA1K_g=w1920-h1080

[johnrando]

Nice

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[Oli77]

Cleaned the inside of the cluster today because there was dust in it in spots.

Installed a small painted lip on the trunk. Looks great, but car is filthy from salted roads and it's cold, so no pics.

Carmax took a last wack at the car to stop the A-pillar leak. They brought in their leak expert who (I think) injected a warm butyl-like black substance between the painted surface of the foremost panel and the seal (the one attached to the panel, not the windshield, that's the one the BMW dealer replaced in vain).

Looks clean. We'll see. I will report back. You can see the wet looking line in the pic below.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/y38ACvx_EEO3Hb6siLsIQXduShLPxhwcIUmGhJBlVxdzNQbEs2 hNxc1gvDKFPQA3rKSK1jEOe_US3hm6voD4JNhD7Y32vrrM2P9o WP8ugthvFqn7aqfff7JQgAwHVHxqhrifdDtNTQ=w1920-h1080

[Oli77]

New lip:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/O95dXRsQ12Ly-89Q8yFqosHqiqWNkc1wA3dP195ZlFsi5LRSy2YgucesHueR1-EMhX8unvv2qdRHf3h2IE5O338h2hH5_WmjgOaL75JS_C9V5fJa TuIne5af3k70c6UyTtvtNHauRQ=w1920-h1080


https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lqByUsXQSfQW2ruBaTHsiS9Om6BJtF6KsgzQMCwqsj5h_BdeJ1 bLj6yrvm3JvL3RNtApPmHUtPklL4it9abCqQgKReiAPOMljpl3 gwfdJPRWlAyq-1rSSJ8LMsqTA9B9R-VIc9ossA=w1920-h1080

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/98Gr7OdAxBZryLzpPtZtQwO_stGkBYIR52f2pPtZZnoQ989BZ1 sKsyZGk2yhScyg3fimD-lMXYl7vvRoQ115VNnaEdi5BaRUfxiu4p8oFXKBSqIklGVC-wH_IYEP_9yPxJiH4UQWAg=w1920-h1080

[Oli77]

Well the leak specialist they had come to the Carmax in my my town to repair my leak knew his stuff.

After lots of long rainy days, I can tell the car is dry and the A pillar leak is gone!

I now have a leak somewhere in the windshield washer/ headlight cleaner line.

Not hot enough to go out there and work on things yet.

[Will]

I really like that trunk lip, understated and very ZHP-esque.

[Oli77]

I really like that trunk lip, understated and very ZHP-esque.

Thanks Will! Yes, I am still a ZHP wannabe!

[Oli77]

Like to put this here.

I prefer the cluster in the E46 I think.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Sin1LmfeTgPtnSOCKs9L3W67CefkkgeidirZEDPGVk9kgFbVIG ICcWrQs7W6Mj-vhCjRE72tBaKd3UJ4J4mZGOeu-PG9ZAn0w3Zkda3OKtykP3ABNWVzwwZQLp2SpkCaVBN1edP_Q=w 1920-h1080

[Oli77]

Nice thing to drive in today's weather! https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/sNGJQpU0mt8M33mg6A_LlHuEtS95ez7gpGgRrrIWpw3f0wgmNQ j3xZyJQoG8GqZoojebMgkmshdbewZzFRQXwyXOfnS7df5hj8hP-i_Q_cSe2LlwfaxEKCAZaroGrL18JbTop5lLtw=w1920-h1080

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[johnrando]

Purdy!

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[Oli77]

Washed the engine bay up a bit and under the hood (why oil get sprayed up there?)


https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZkBAV6i0dh-_wSsmQVxqJ2XHUAAPcu1nZ1Uet1jCFVf6j07-XBkUz93uOopQn4kaTj6kL1lsvFpyF-dPj4vxxgzJ1HR6VKoWtUlg_H-57qkAdL_EnuSDWq3whc27UT1SigEljMekfA=w1920-h1080


Also "fixed" the headlight washer left side. Terminated the tube.

[fredo]

Good choice with this car. Check the miles on this 2009 328i:

36347

408,929 and counting.

[Oli77]

I hope it gets there. Good grief, though, I don't drive that much per year and don't see this one getting more than 5-6K miles per year.

[johnrando]

Wow!

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[Oli77]

leaving this here.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5I1X-ttWeYNxzfzi3-TW3wVoQkQVJS4RxXgI4BJCZxvBwj2p7hDeQmJcG-1-67Qx8-X9wv8R0evIXQxAW1oS9DBvcUNmhcUKLT331XFT5FrjsPPqWz8x 2N_IcfXdCuJvFVPOCt8ACA=w1920-h1080

[pedro2u]

and even sporting that new wind deflector!

:thumbsup

Beautiful

[Oli77]

Thanks Pete. It's very pretty, totally not gonna lie.

[t.er]

M-Sport and those wheels really look sharp!

[Oli77]

Thanks bud.

[Oli77]

Looking into a 3-stage manifold to get more HP since this engine is really a 3L with a smaller intake (correct me if I am wrong).

Was thinking to do it myself but the tune part scares me and the 2 DISA system coming from a 1 DISA with different ports is also scary.

Anyway. This (https://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-N51-N52-Intake-Manifold-3-Stage/324175650218?epid=1211130266&hash=item4b7a5fddaa:g:p18AAOSwCH9bcimJ) is what I am looking at.

[t.er]

Was thinking to do it myself but the tune part scares me and the 2 DISA system coming from a 1 DISA with different ports is also scary.



I was actually doing a bit of reading on the N52 because a friend was looking at getting a non-turbo E9X/E82. I wonder if DISA issues are as bad with those as the M54? Must not be, or I'd think GAS would've developed a kit for those as well

[Oli77]

From my reading the DISA issue is not really an issue in the non-turboed N52.

I did take a look at the manifold I currently have and it has 2 AOS ports. So I think. If someone can enlighten me on that, that would be cool. Can't seem to see much on the internet.

[Oli77]

Pulled trigger on a used manifold from a 330i. Pics when it's here. That will be the first mod.

[fredo]

Good move. Earlier today I had chance to drive my former E90 330i (my father in law is the new owner). Oh, boy ... those cars drive really nice.

[Oli77]

Getting 3L airflow into 3L engine = 330!
Getting it done Wednesday.
DISAs look good? https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200919/fe185346c3692841cc932a5f5901e274.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200919/488ac5f881214d7b183f9fb0bbc3ec39.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200919/68fd09e09af2a459088514656bb6de1d.jpg

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[Oli77]

Large DISA is broken. Need a new one. Bummer but it's the price you pay buying used parts on the internet...

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[Oli77]

58290 miles, oil and filter change.
New intake in. Changes you ask ?
More noise, better response. More power? Yep.
Let me get more miles on it. Could all be placebo.

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[Oli77]

Actually, I think the response is better at lower RMP, so more pick up it seems.
I can't really be sure that I feel that much more power across the RMPs.
Now, there is no tune on the car, just more air and more gas going in.
I hear a difference but I am not floored by the gains.

[Oli77]

Did some more driving, backwoods twisties spirited driving around here. Yes, I feel it, it is a substantial increase in power. Keeping it in 4k rmp range, it has a serious increase in pickup. The issue I think I have is that without the tune, the increases in power are sometimes smooth, sometimes abrupt (think turbo-like) and sometimes, just not there. So I think that the computer is adjusting and learning (this is what the guy at the shop who did the install told me). It is not learning too well it seems, I have driven over 300 miles with it (and a smile on my face) and the output can sometimes be erratic (makes it fun but could be dangerous in the rain I assume).

I will wait another weekend or so and see if a tune might be recommended to smooth the power delivery a bit.

Need tune from a 330i for now.

I am happy with this purchase/ mod.

[fredo]

That sounds good. I never considered a tune for my e90 330i. I was happy with it “as is”.

[Galapolis]

Thanks for the report. I wonder how much HP it is making now. I used to wonder why the 3L N52 came with everything from 215hp to 272hp. If the intake + tune alone can turn the 215hp version into something in the 270 range, that would be a game changer for cars like the 128i.

[pedro2u]

That sounds good. I never considered a tune for my e90 330i. I was happy with it “as is�.

+1 with Fredo on the "happy as is" Maybe add very happy....

The vert ZHP weather is getting occasionally a bit frosty here in the Northeast, so I've jumped in the 335Xi E92 a few times lately, and that extra 65hp is a dramatic neck snapping upgrade to my ZHP. But love 'em both for obvious different reasons :rofl

[Oli77]

That sounds good. I never considered a tune for my e90 330i. I was happy with it “as is”.
Not sure Ã* tune would give you more., next step would be turbos like the 335i with 305 HP.

[Oli77]

Thanks for the report. I wonder how much HP it is making now. I used to wonder why the 3L N52 came with everything from 215hp to 272hp. If the intake + tune alone can turn the 215hp version into something in the 270 range, that would be a game changer for cars like the 128i.

Yep, so, may have gone from 231 hp to 250 ish. The 128i do that very mod I hear.

[Oli77]

+1 with Fredo on the "happy as is" Maybe add very happy....

The vert ZHP weather is getting occasionally a bit frosty here in the Northeast, so I've jumped in the 335Xi E92 a few times lately, and that extra 65hp is a dramatic neck snapping upgrade to my ZHP. But love 'em both for obvious different reasons :rofl

Yep same here, can be bit cold in the mornings.

[Oli77]

Been looking around the local CL for BMW winter wheels and snow tires and came across a nice looking set of style 158s (http://www.bmwstylewheels.com/bmw/158) equipped with Blizzaks (good for 1 or 2 seasons says the guy).

Driving up to Cinci tomorrow to pick em up for $400. Pretty Merry about that.

Probably worth it and will let me drive little bit more into the winter, assuming snow makes it over here.

[Oli77]

Pretty stoked.

I hope they be non - woobley.

Haven't installed yet.

Decent tread.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201214/12475d079a252fa8a8ec437c956c2e1e.jpg

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[Oli77]

59,xxx miles put on the new snow tires purchased last weekend.
Not a bad deal, they help pressure during the week so I guess wheels aren't cracked.
Little wobble in the back at ~70 miles/ hr so I guess one may have a bit of a bend (not gonna sweat it since not driving 70mph in the snow).

Surprisingly, the TPMS system in my car did not bark or say anything. I had assumed the TPMS in the wheels would not be functioning or emitting (I do not know how the system works) and an alarm would sound. But no. All good.

And those wheels aren't bad at all!

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6Xy7s7AJJN1dyJPoDQGfrQfaYWBaZTRA4d1WzIEWmCXGRjNN4t RtfGU79dzWYuqHMGad95TuxVdZ1nm9ADTlkouopGHMY815C7ng FRWR33BtuCJar4gxuZnXSfjd7Ij90jJpIbpLUQ=w1920-h1080

[fredo]

:like

[t.er]

I wonder if TPMS in your car is the same as the E46 where it looks at wheel speed differential, or if it uses actual sensors in each tire? If the former, then that would explain it.

[Oli77]

I should look this up. But pretty sure it's receivers and transmitters in my car.

[Oli77]

So eventually, the TPMS warned me that it couldn't read the signal. Had the exclamation point all winter. No big.

60500 miles. Put the Bridgetown pottenzas back on. Car looks better with original wheels.

TPMS stopped complaining in 2 start cycles.

[johnrando]

Nice

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[Oli77]

November 2021 @ 63,720 miles; nothing much to report except:

Did an oil change with Liquid Molly 5w40.
And did an brake fluid flush (Dot 4).

I had this done at a shop in town and they mentioned that the CarQuest alternator is throwing a code and that this is typical with this brand. When I bought the car from CarMax, I had them change the alternator, the coolant pump and the radiator. Codes are:

2E8B: IBS Communication
2E81: Electric coolant pump speed deviation
2E85: Electric coolant pump communication
2E98: Alternator communication
2E8D: IBS Signal transmission

They know the alternator is the trouble because the water pump codes disappear if they disconnect the alternator. Anyway, they recommend NOT using an alternator from CarQuest.

I put this here to potentially help other.

[johnrando]

[emoji1360]

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[Oli77]

Also November 2021,

Changed cabin air filter
Changed intake air filter and cleaned MAF
Changed wiper blades too

And put on the winter tires!

[Oli77]

Back to summer tires at 65,535 miles.

[johnrando]

yay!

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[Oli77]

Got a "light out" warning yesterday, turns out the H8 bulb that illuminates the angel eyes on one side (both rings are on one bulb), is dead.
So I searched around a bit and ended up with the one that seemed trouble free, code free, with decent light output on both rings.
https://luxangeleyes.com/products/lux-h8-189
So many people were complaining about flickers, ramping up and down when turned on and off, error codes, and short lived stuff that I hope I made the right choice.
I will post picks.

[Oli77]

Done.
Left is the old, right, the new.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220617/3793a6bf293849540607129562c4c777.jpg
Different apertures
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220617/e1335e388094b09b3e6de7c24823af75.jpg
Outsiide with both new bulbs in.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220617/26cade2c7f6eb648a6610d9209fc0842.jpg

With fogs and headlights on, they flicker so it looks like one of the inner ring is dimmer then the other. It just so happens that in this shot the flickering made it looks that way but you can't tell at all when looking at the light. There is no flickering at all, they are steadily light. Even in pro mode (samsung) the flicker is too fast and I can't ever catch them on perfectly lit similarly.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220617/0d42e11ecf2c92e84e54939593b40476.jpg

Easy install, push and twist (with the tip of your fingers, small hands are a must). I wish there was a satisfying "click" when correctly positioned. Seemed tight enough to me, time will tell.

[fredo]

Vert looks much better now. :thumbsup

[Oli77]

At 68,223 miles:

Changed oil and filter.
Put on the Winter tires.
Got a low battery sign on car.

Realized back summer tire treads on both side are getting thin.

[Oli77]

At 69,9520 put on summer tires (low trim indeed).

Dropped it at the BMW dealer for ta PCV valve heater hiring harness replacement under campaign no. 22V-119.

[Oli77]

Gonna need tires soon. Rear is no bueno.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230924/1fc13b49d58773598094dd3b1345f72c.jpg

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[Oli77]

Preventative maintenance. Old one was 5 years old.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231028/9dc40bd26d071adfd65deea1003c0895.jpg

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[Oli77]

Had my indy shop code the battery in the DME (free).

4 years and 18K miles later (its my daily to work unless it snows) it was time for new tires.

Got staggered Michelin Pilot Sport 4S (all season) tires on a recommendation from a big chain guy ($1100).

Will be installed and aligned this coming Monday.

It's already cold here so I will switch to my winter set up right away.

[fredo]

Four years already, that got me by surprise. :dunno

[johnrando]

[emoji1360]

Sent from my SM-F936U1 using Tapatalk

[Oli77]

Got me one of these.

Thought my car had had a new VANOS redesign.

Must wait for the new bolts?https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231226/26684651084d4c78cfadbacc22247091.jpg

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[Oli77]

72K miles, did oil and filter.

Gonna need to change my plugs (overdue since 60K miles).
And to change air and cabin filter when weather improves.

[Oli77]

74K miles, changed plugs. Had a scare, it ran on 5 cylinders when I started it, something was wrong.
Took it apart, reseated all coils and plugs, and we had a smooth 6 cylinders engine sound in the garage.
The exhaust sounded good with 5 cylinders, though, I won't lie.

[Oli77]

Originals I presume. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240407/3b86815d925fac8207d971395653a4f8.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240407/7e9499f393c3a6bea6e5ffdb6386b2e9.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240407/dc29401b8e30cab456e6fa409cc95034.jpg

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[Oli77]

Was going to add a note that with the strut bar in the first pick above going STRAIGHT ABOVE the 5th cylinder from the front, it was not possible to get the plug straight on. I tried to remove the Torx bolt on top of the strut mount with one of those "universal" female thingy and that failed miserably. Just bought a female set (gonna need it to the OFHG).

So, I had to add a swivel point at the right height, was a little touch and go for a minute, you know, when you don't have the exact tool for the job.

Anyways, in case someone does plugs on the E93 chassis, with the extra frame support/stabilization (no roof), that tension bar is IN THE WAY. Not good on this engineering, BMW!

[slater]

Was going to add a note that with the strut bar in the first pick above going STRAIGHT ABOVE the 5th cylinder from the front, it was not possible to get the plug straight on. I tried to remove the Torx bolt on top of the strut mount with one of those "universal" female thingy and that failed miserably. Just bought a female set (gonna need it to the OFHG).

So, I had to add a swivel point at the right height, was a little touch and go for a minute, you know, when you don't have the exact tool for the job.

Anyways, in case someone does plugs on the E93 chassis, with the extra frame support/stabilization (no roof), that tension bar is IN THE WAY. Not good on this engineering, BMW!

all E9x cars have those braces. they are a real PITA, indeed - the worst part being that the other end is bolted at the firewall, under the massive cowl, so you need to remove the cabin filter, cowl, etc to get to it. i have koni yellows on my E91 and in order to adjust the dampers, i have to unbolt the outer brace bolt, lift it up, and juuuust squeeze the adjuster in there.

the socket set you need is called "e torx" and most bolts are either E10 or E12 on the E9x.

[Oli77]

Ha, I didn't know that.
Thanks for the info Peter, and yes, I bought a set of eTorx

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