so, today I collected and paid for more maintenance done on my e46. It had been leaking oil out of the remaining culprit - the sump gasket. So I bit the bullet. Had been talking about this for a few months with my trusted independent workshop.
- I ran Wurth fuel injector cleaner through it for 350kms before this work, noticed the car running more smoothly, despite it getting good long trips (8000kms since late April). I guess the cleaner injectors result in a better spray pattern, better atomisation, better combustion etc.
- Replaced sump gasket (gen BMW), engine mounts, trans mounts (all Lemforder) replaced, including new sump bolts and mount nuts.
- They replaced the oil level sensor seal and the dipstick tube seal
- Oil and filter (of course) - 5W30 Castrol Pro, along with a Mann filter & o-rings from my stock. 8000km oil change interval this time, I'll monitor how it goes.
- Replaced the seat occupancy sensor mat (second one in 4.5 years - arggggh). Better safe than sorry or even failing a WoF.
- Replaced the rear springs with a pair sourced from Brent at BM World (Thanks Brent!). The left rear springs had broken. Orange Stripe was on the car, Green Stripe have gone on. Need to research what these colours signify in part numbers - there's nothing on RealOEM now. If anyone has any info, please let me know.
- Wheel Alignment (following the spring change).
She's running beautifully. And I trust, no more oil leaks! Replacing the mounts after 14 years and 166k kms of running has made it appreciably smoother, less driveline vibration on the highway, or under acceleration. Result.
With thanks to the team at Page European!