*Glenn*

I would suggest using a branded full synthetic 5w30 meeting the required spec.

We use ELF Evolution 900 FTX 5w30

API:SN/CF,ILSAC:GF5

I would also suggest checking the coolant and only use genuine coolant. 3 X 1.5 litre bottles. There is also a special venting (bleeding) proceedure

I'm in a different sand pit... you go and play in yours and I'll stay here and help people

I answered the 2nd question. The first would be determined by a professional inspection and diagnosis of the 1st question, which needs to be checked by somebody who actually knows and deals in repairing these vehicles. And I'm not replying in here to play games. I'm trying to help the OP here with her problem

No disrespect intended, however I read it that Alicia is looking for a professional that has qualified experience to help her with this problem.

PS> To Alicia- feel free to give me a call tomorrow (09) 2722546 We close at 12.00 am though...long weekend 

It's not recommended to change the pump without the new thermostat and you MUST use 3 bottles of genuine coolant and vent the system correctly without the battery voltage reducing below 13v. The thermostat has a mapped cooling sensor built into it

You need to get the water pump, thermostat, bolt set, genuine coolant and any other associated faulty components. After installation the system must be vented (bled) correctly or the pump will fail again.... $1800 - $2000 job

I'm sorry... the warranty has expired now 

Was this test done with the passengers seat belt plugged into it's receiver (stalk) ?? and with the ignition on ?

I suggest talking to BM Workshop Grey Lynn or Botany

Have you checked with your local dealer. They may have a car in the colour

http://www.cookehowlisonbmw.co.nz/

We do our transmission oil level checks at 45c using live data, not an external temp sensor source

Any Japanese import Euro car that is over 5 years old is liable to turn into a very expensive money tip. Especially the lower spec small capacity versions. A 10 year old low km is a hand grenade waiting to have the pin pulled by a heavy right foot. I have one 2 in the workshop today. Euro manufacturers have lost the plot with reliability since about 2005.They are now building / manufacturing to a 3-5 recycle rate which only continues to burn the consumers bank accounts

11 minutes ago, KiwiTT said:

Fuel economy is improving now that I am doing less start stop driving.

Has it broken down Richard ?

The shocks are inserts and not handed... only the struts are handed. I would also suggest changing both fronts if only one is faulty. There are also 2 sizes 45mm & 51mm. Most 325ms had 51mm

DOH .... I didn't see the : 

10 hours ago, treone said:

Try 16.4l and 26 cylinders:

 

What's that in ?

The only people I would recommend to do the PPI and servicing on these N54 twin tubo'd vehicles is BM Workshop Botany (2716636) or Grey Lynn (3761236)

Call in some time and have a proper look. 

Video works for me

Give me a call Callum

You need to scan it first to determine if fault codes are present. What fuel are you using ? octane and brand ?

Can check it today if you like.. give me a call (09)2722546 ask for Glenn

You may possibly need it at some point 

Best you ring me tomorrow rather than emailing me and asking me to write a book. Happy to help but we are very busy

Regards Glenn

My phone number hasn't changed Johno