Category: BMW Repair

Is It Safe to Drive a BMW with a Sticking Door?

BMW is one of the best-known German car manufacturers of high-performance vehicles, sophisticated both in appearance and comfort. Doors are an essential part of your BMW, but when they do not function properly, it can cause a lot of problems.

Car doors and their inner mechanical components can get damaged, and this can manifest in the form of your car door becoming stuck open or closed, or it can manifest one day with you having to manhandle it open only to hear a loud crunch when you finally get it wide open.

This can be a mechanical problem, as in a bent latch, or it can be electrical, if the door lock mechanism isn’t receiving the code to unlock the door. The same mechanical problem can keep your door from properly closing and sealing, leaving it open to theft and weather damage.

Let’s take a closer look at the common reasons your door can stick.

Reasons for a Sticking Door

Mechanical reasons can be the cause of a sticking door. These are usually bent, corroded, or worn down parts that either control the door or seal it closed. When they cease to work as designed, your door can be a problem to open and close:

• Broken handle
• Bent latch
• Malfunctioning locking post on the latch
• Bent disconnection latch
• Corroded door lock assembly

Moden BMW car owners use electronics and smart locks to secure their cars remotely from their keyfob or phone. Any time you add technology to mechanics, there is a possibility of failure.

• The keyfob battery is dead
• Frayed, pinched, or broken wires
• Car battery problems, which affects the electrical system
• Electrical bundle issues
• Blown fuses

It goes without saying that you need all doors on your car to function easily. Simply getting out as your destination should be as easy as pulling on the door handle, stepping out, and gently pushing the door closed. It should seal properly and lock on command.

If you cannot exit your car door, this poses a safety hazard. It is not safe at all. You can crawl out of the passenger side door, but this isn’t something you want to do daily, or ever in the case of an emergency. If you are struggling to push your way out of a sticking door, it’s time to visit our shop for a diagnosis and a repair.

How to Prevent a BMW Door from Sticking

• Avoid corrosion: The plastic used for BMW doors is susceptible to corrosion. It can be caused by the chemicals used to lubricate the particular metals on the door. Using the wrong chemicals can also cause a lot of harm, so when DIYing your door panel, be sure to purchase the proper tools and lubricants so you don’t cause a problem that is expensive to repair.
• Avoid heat exposure: Extreme heat in an older BMW can cause the door to stick, if parts begin to overheat and slightly warp, even the slightest. This can cause the pivots and latches to catch on misshapen parts. Try keeping your BMW in a garage out of the weather when possible. When in doubt about where to park, you can look for a shaded place or under the shade of a tree.
• Proper maintenance: Thorough checking of your car’s doors during regular maintenance can do a long way towards keeping your BMW functioning as designed. It is important to maintain your service schedule as outlined in your owner’s manual.

Euro Plus Automotive: BMW Expert Mechanics at Your Service

Euro Plus Automotive has helped drivers take care of their German and Japanese vehicles for over 30 years. We provide all the services you receive at a dealership but at a fraction of the cost.

When we first opened, we specialized in Porsche vehicles, but over time we’ve become a full-service center for German brands, including Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, and more. We offer unbeatable service and value to each of our customers. Our ASE-certified mechanics will enhance your vehicle’s performance and durability through a year-round maintenance schedule.

Our team has the experience needed to diagnose any car issue and repair it to get you safely back on the road. Call Euro Plus Automotive today if you’re looking for proper car care in Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and the Los Angeles County area of California. We’re here to assist you and your car with any service or repair needs.

The Best Repair Shop in Canoga Park to Fix Cracked Alloy Wheels Due to Flat Tires in a BMW

A particular issue that BMW owners tend to encounter is cracked alloy wheels, especially when it comes to flat tires. This occurs because, while aesthetically pleasing, alloy wheels are not as durable as other kinds of wheels and have a tendency to crack under pressure. Luckily, there are some things that can be done to fix the problem when it occurs and some tips to make it less likely to happen in the first place.

Solutions for Cracked Alloy Wheels

First, a few definitions to clear up any confusion. As you may know, there is a difference between tires and wheels. Though many people use the terms interchangeably, in technical terms, a car’s wheels are the metal hubs that are permanently affixed to the car’s axle. The word tires, by contrast, refers to the rubber coverings that surround the wheels. The tires are what actually touch the ground and gain traction that allows the vehicle to move forward.

Wheels come in all sorts of colors and sizes, from 16 inch shiny alloys with spokes to 19 inches in black matte. Some people prefer larger alloy wheels that fill the wheel well and are more aesthetically pleasing. It’s a matter of opinion and a great way to customize your car.

How Cracks Happen in Alloys

With the amount of pressure a car’s wheels are under all the time, it’s unsurprising that cracks happen. Alloy wheels in particular, because of their lightweight nature, crack easily. They’re very good to look at and their weight allows for more control over acceleration and stopping, but the drawback is the fragility.

When the wheels crack, it’s usually because of something that is difficult to avoid. As much as you might try to get out of the way of obvious dangers like potholes, curbs, or large bumps, sometimes these dangers may be hidden or hard to suss out and you will likely end up running into a few here and there.

If You Suspect Damage to Your Alloys

When damage occurs, the only thing to do is to take the vehicle to a trusted and knowledgeable BMW mechanic. They will be able to determine the severity of the damage and whether the wheel needs to be replaced or simply repaired. This will depend largely on the type of damage.

If the crack in the alloy wheel is relatively small and not too deep, it can probably be repaired pretty quickly by an experienced technician. However, deeper gouges will require the wheel to be replaced. In the long run, even with thinner cracks, replacing the wheel may be more cost effective than repairing it, as once the wheel has a crack, even one that has been patched, it is weaker and more likely to crack again in the future.

How to Get Help With Your BMW’s Cracked Alloy Wheels

After all this discussion of how fragile alloy wheels are, you might be wondering why anyone wants alloy wheels to begin with, but one of the main advantages is that they are lighter weight, allowing for greater responsiveness to acceleration and braking. They are also affordable and come in a much wider array of styles than sturdier wheels, making them an attractive option for those who care about the aesthetics of their vehicles and are looking to customize their car.

For many people, those advantages outweigh the drawbacks. If that’s the case for you, then you simply need to keep in mind how you’re driving and be careful not to hit too many bumps. Additionally, avoiding larger wheels can help, as that means the tire will be taking more of the impact than the wheel itself.

Euro Plus Automotive for Your Alloy Wheels

If you do find yourself with a cracked wheel, however, the experienced mechanics at Euro Plus Automotive would be delighted to find a fix. We are located in Canoga Park, California and are happy to provide services to clients all over Los Angeles County, including Woodland Hills and San Fernando Valley.

If you’d like to set up an appointment or learn more about the services we offer, feel free to give us a call or stop by our shop for information. We’d be happy to answer your questions and provide you with the services you need!

If Your BMW is Leaking Oil, Contact Us Now in Canoga Park

For decades, BMW has continued to raise the bar in the automotive industry. Owning a BMW earns you the respect of other drivers, but it also comes with maintenance responsibilities. As a BMW owner, it is essential to pay attention to minor changes and attend to them immediately to ensure the longevity of your vehicle.

One of such changes that require immediate attention is oil leakage. Many BMW drivers do not notice this problem until it becomes extreme or has resulted in costly damage to other parts. Oil leakage requires immediate attention and sound professionals in handling the situation.

Common Causes of Oil Leaks In BMW

Your BMW may be leaking oil for several reasons, and they include:

Problem with the Valve Gasket Cover

The valve gasket cover is an essential part of the engine. It seals the valve cover to the top part of the engine cylinder head and keeps the oil in place. During vehicle use, motor oil is brought to the upper part of the engine and then sent under the valve cover for oil to be distributed to essential engine parts with the help of the drainage holes. The valve gasket cover has the primary function of preventing the motor oil from leaking out as the vehicle is being used. If the valve gasket cover has an issue, then oil can easily leak all over the engine before ending up being visible on the ground.

Problem With the Main seal

The main seal is a seal that keeps oil in the rear part of the engine, where the crankshaft is linked with the transmission. When this seal is damaged, it results in oil leaks. This seal can be quite expensive to repair and should only be attempted by an experienced mechanic to prevent further damage to other engine parts. These leaks are less frequent and may be hard for drivers to identify. The fastest way to identify this type of leak is when your BMW leaks oil faster and leaves large oil puddles where you were parked.

Problem with the Drain Plug

The drain plug is a plastic or metal screw plug used to seal the oil drain opening. The oil drain opening is used to drain oil during an oil change. It is located at the underside of the BMW engine and could get worn out or broken during an oil change. This is not a severe problem as it just requires that the plug be screwed back properly or changed entirely. You should regularly check the drain plug as natural wear and tear can cause them to get damaged easily.

Irregular Oil Changes

BMW has made it easy for users by making available recommendations for changing your engine oil. Each recommendation is specific to the specific models, and It is advisable to always follow these recommendations. This is because using old or contaminated oil can cause damage to the moving parts it is meant to lubricate.

With old oil running through the vehicle, it begins to wear out parts and cause oil leaks. In order to prevent this, you have to change your oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Euro Plus Automotive: The Trusted Auto Repair Shop in Canoga Park

BMW’s have strict service needs that must be followed to maintain its quality. However, finding the right automotive company that provides quality service and repairs can be a challenge at times.

At Euro Plus Automotive, we have provided quality service and repairs for German and Japanese vehicles for over 30 years. You can trust our professionals to handle your oil leaks or any other repairs. We only hire mechanics with years of experience to ensure quality. Our ASE-certified technicians utilize the latest factory-grade tools and equipment to ensure quality service delivery. We provide all the services your car needs at a more affordable price, making us stand out from other auto repair shops in Canoga Park.

We are located in Canoga Park, CA, and we also help out drivers in Los Angeles County, Woodland Hills, and San Fernando Valley. Next time you are looking for an auto repair or service center in Canoga Park, please give us a call!

Common Causes of Door Lock Failure in a BMW

When you purchase a BMW, you expect it to work flawlessly, and most of the time, it does. However, like any machine, it will occasionally run into problems that need to be fixed. One of these possible issues is with the door locking mechanism.

Imagine getting out of the grocery store one day with your cart laden with all the food and supplies you purchased, only to discover that the doors to your BMW won’t unlock. It could be worse when attempting to get out of your vehicle after a lazy Sunday afternoon drive and finding yourself locked inside. When the door lock fails, these are the sorts of things that can happen.

The Breakdown

A trusted and experienced BMW mechanic will be able to fix the problem, but it can be helpful for your peace of mind to understand the possible causes of this malfunction so that you will know what to look for.

• Key fob malfunction: Back in the early days of automobiles, cars used regular keys to lock and unlock. With the advancement of technology, however, car manufacturers have found safer and more secure ways to ensure your vehicle stays closed and locked. Key fobs are the more secure option. Normal locks can be picked, but key fobs are specially coded to work for your unique vehicle, making it much harder to break in. However, that also means that if they stop working for some reason, that security can work against you. You may find yourself either unable to unlock the door or unable to lock it. There are options, such as replacing the battery in the fob to see if it works, but that is assuming you have a spare battery on you. Many times, you will have to call for roadside assistance to get your door open.
• Electrical problems: Like a lot of things in modern vehicles, your BMW’s door locking mechanism is powered by electrical energy. This means that if you’re having other electrical problems in your vehicle, it could cause the doors to malfunction as well. If you notice, for example, that only one door is having trouble locking or unlocking, that could be a sign of some kind of electrical malfunction, such as a blown fuse or a faulty connection. Be sure to pay attention to other signs of electrical problems, such as your dashboard lights being dim or the cabin interior lights malfunctioning. The sooner you detect a problem, the sooner you can bring it in for diagnostic testing and repair, possibly sparing you from being locked out of your BMW.
• A bad door lock actuator: The door lock actuator is essentially the middle man between your key fob and the lock, interpreting the buttons you press on the fob to tell the lock what to do. It uses gears to make the lock either engage or disengage as needed and sensors to determine which of those actions is necessary under the given circumstances. Essentially, if this piece of equipment stops working for whatever reason, then the lock on your BMW’s door will remain in whatever position it was in indefinitely before the actuator broke. In some cases, the problem could be random, where sometimes the actuator will work and sometimes it won’t, but it could also just cease to function entirely. In either case, it’s a good idea to bring your vehicle in for repair as soon as you start having trouble.

How to Get Help With Your BMW’s Faulty Door Lock

While it may not be the most dangerous of malfunctions, a faulty door lock is definitely annoying and should be fixed as soon as possible. However, it’s not advisable to attempt to fix it yourself unless you are skilled with car repair and have a lot of experience working with BMWs specifically. BMWs are very unique and require specialized knowledge and equipment to be repaired properly. Also, working on electrical systems can be dangerous.

Rely on our trusted mechanics at Euro Plus Automotive. We are conveniently located for customers in and around Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and Los Angeles County, California. We specialize in the maintenance and repair of luxury European car brands such as BMW, so you can trust that we have the expertise necessary to fix your door locking problems quickly. Contact us today to set up an appointment!

The Best Service Center for Spark Plug Replacement in a BMW in Canoga Park

When it comes to having your BMW repaired, it is crucial to find a shop who knows how to work on your specific type of German cars and how to do it right. The complexity in this craft comes from both the nature of European cars using the metric system (which requires a special set of tools) as well as an understanding of how these cars run.

There are some routine maintenance processes that many drivers try to tackle at home to save money. One particular example is the spark plugs.

This is a fairly simple part, the only job of a spark plug is to give off a small spark for ignition to happen in each individual piston. This requires a special park to fit to the somewhat odd shape of the spark plug in any car, so to add on top of that the special considerations BMW’s require, it is important to have this work done by a professional if you think your spark plugs need to be replaced.

Common Problems When the Spark Plugs are in Need of Repair

There are some common issues that will occur and are recognizable signs for the driver that it’s time to have your spark plugs replaced. This can be a tricky issue because it is possible for the engine to run without a couple of spark plug firing correctly, but if ignored, it will lead to more expensive repairs down the road.

• Rough/inconsistent idling: If one or two spark plugs quit entirely, the engine can keep running. An excellent time to inspect and consider if this is your problem is if there are strange sounds or a change in feel in the driver’s seat when the car is idling. While the car is sitting still at a traffic stop and there is less road noise to distract you, listen for new noises in your engine bay. You may hear popping noises if your spark plugs are struggling to fire.
• Change in Acceleration: The spark plugs work in sync with the pistons. If even one piston is malfunctioning, the cylinder can function but it will not be at full capacity. If your BMW is not accelerating like it normally would, this is a sign that you have a problem in the engine. Although it does not necessarily mean the spark plug is the problem, this is still a sign to bring your car in right away because something needs repair if performance is suffering.
• Difficulty starting: If any of the pistons are not firing or are firing sporadically, the vehicle will probably have some difficulty when trying to turn over initially. This is a fussier symptom because it could be a sign of problems somewhere else such as fuel injection, but faulty spark plugs may be the first thing your mechanic will look at.
• Drop in Fuel Economy: Another symptom that could mean any number of parts are failing is a change in fuel economy. As it pertains to spark plugs, pistons firing out of sync will directly equate to the other pistons trying to work harder. The engine will operate out of balance.

Even though it goes through a beating and will keep running for a time, every part in a car engine is made to serve a particular purpose, so all parts must be fully-operational for the engine to run as designed by the manufacturer. If your mileage has dropped, getting the spark plugs checked by a certified technician is an easy way to solve a small problem before it gets bigger and costlier.

Euro Plus Automotive

The simplest check for spark plug replacement is to follow the manufacturer guidelines. At Euro Plus Automotive, our dedicated technicians are certified in specialized brands like BMW, and are experts in dealing with the special needs that come with owning such a high-quality vehicle.

Whether it’s routine maintenance or if you suspect your spark plugs are in need of replacement, Euro Plus Automotive is here to help. Our convenient shop in Canoga Park has served the Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and Los Angeles County area for decades. Every service comes with a 2-year/24,000-mile warranty on parts and labor, so you will leave confident that we’ve done the job right. Give us a call today!

Where Should You Replace a Cracked Alloy Wheel of your BMW in Canoga?

BMWs are luxury performance cars that are well known for speed, safety and comfort. These vehicles are manufactured with cutting edge technology that give them exciting features tailored to maximize the comfort of drivers.

A big part of ensuring that BMW drivers enjoy the comfort of their cars goes into designing the alloy wheels that are used in BMWs. While these alloy wheels are designed with durability in mind, this is not always the case. Let’s discuss why.

Advantages of BMW Alloy Wheels

BMW alloy wheels are manufactured with a keen focus on details that not only optimize the car for performance, but also account for a trademark and distinct appearance of most BMW models. The aesthetics of the end product matters in the manufacturing of BMWs. This is one of the reasons why alloy wheels are preferred over other metal wheels.

BMW alloy wheels are forged from aluminium because then they are durable. These alloy wheels are designed to withstand external effects of weather that would normally wear out metal tires fast.

Some of the key factors that are calculated during the manufacture of these alloy wheels include a high level of thermal conductivity, optimum ventilation of the braking systems, and reduced weight. While all these features are designed for the near-perfect wheel, most BMW drivers can’t seem to enjoy the durability of their expensive wheels. This is because over time these wheels have been known to develop cracks.

These cracks put a wrinkle in BMW’s brilliant plan to help drivers continue driving in case they get a flat while driving at a high speed without losing control of the vehicle. This ensures driver safety. So let’s take a closer look at what causes the cracks in BMWs alloy wheels.

Causes of Cracked Alloy Wheels in BMW

The main cause of cracks in BMW alloy wheels is driving on rough roads. This is not about rough terrain. Uneven roads with the smallest potholes or low curbs can cause cracks to develop in the BMW alloy wheels. Worse still, it’s not a question of if you get cracks in your wheels, because sooner or later it will happen.

The most careful drivers who avoid hitting potholes and maneuver curbs and bumps as gently as possible are still likely to get cracks in their alloy wheels. This can be disappointing, especially if you consider the cost of these alloy wheels.

What to Do When Your Alloy Wheels Crack

As soon as you notice a crack in your BMW wheels, it’s advisable that you find a reputable mechanic to fix the issue. This is especially so that the mechanic can help minimize the amount of damage to the wheel. Small cracks that are not fixed immediately can grow into big fissures that would necessitate replacing the entire wheel. This by itself is an expensive venture that you might want to avoid by all means.

You also need to be very careful while taking your BMW to an auto repair shop. This is mainly because BMWs need highly specialized servicing and repairs that can only be performed by mechanics who are well-versed with the model. Whatever the case, you should resist the urge to drive your BMW when a wheel is cracked because if you do, the wheel can suffer sudden tire blowout.

You should also stay vigilant while driving your car. This way you’ll be able to catch any cracks as soon as they begin to appear. Going to a reliable BMW specialist also prevents the cracks from reaching the lug nut holes, as this would mean definite wheel replacement.

Where to Take Your BMW for Cracked Alloy Wheel Repair

Finding a reputable auto repair shop can itself be an uphill task. Lucky for you, Euro Plus Automotive is available for all your BMW repairs in Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles County, CA.

We recognize that you need only the best services and repairs for your BMW, which is why our team of mechanics are dedicated to serving you. We provide quality repairs and replacements to all BMW related problems. Give us a call today and we’ll help you get the best services as intended by the manufacturer for your BMW.

* BMW Alloy Sports Wheel image credit goes to: Nickbeer.

The Best Place to Fix a BMW Window Regulator Failure in Canoga Park

Imagine it’s a beautiful, sunny day. The clouds are full and fluffy in the air. There is a slight breeze blowing all around you. The only thing that would make it better is feeling the breeze blowing through your car windows as you drive around to enjoy the day. This can’t happen if your power window regulator isn’t functioning.

Power windows are a relatively new feature on modern vehicles. Power windows allow us to press a button in order to roll our windows up and down. Before the mid 1970s, car windows were operated manually. Each door had a handle to roll the window up or down. Now, your windows are operated electrically because of your car’s window regulator system.

BMWs are no exception to this technological and mechanical advancement. BMW is known for delivering the best vehicle technology and performance to their drivers, so it is no surprise that the brand adopted the use of an advanced system that allows drivers to forgo manually winding their windows. But just because the system is an advancement in automotive technology, doesn’t mean they don’t malfunction. Here are a few common warning signs that your BMW’s window regulator is failing and where to go to get it fixed.

Your Window Won’t Stay Rolled Up

The window regulator assembly allows the rolled up window to lock into place and stay closed. If you press the button to roll up your window, but the rolled up window doesn’t lock in place or it falls down on its own, the regulator assembly could be broken.

Another sign of a broken regulator assembly is if the window ends up crooked while you are rolling the window up or down. One side of the window may slide down slightly, leaving an open gap. If you notice this, bring your car into the shop so the window regulator system can be replaced.

Window Speed Is Slower or Faster Than Usual

When you press the button to roll your window up or down, you expect the window to operate at an even speed. The speed is regulated for convenience but also so that the window doesn’t break. If your window is moving faster or slower than usual when you press the button, it might have a shorted wire or fuse that isn’t allowing the sufficient amount of power to the window regulator. This is easily replaced at your trusted BMW shop.

Your Window Rolls Up After Multiple Tries

The button you press is in order to trigger the window regulator into rolling your car’s window up and down is meant to trigger the window regulator immediately. If you notice that you have to press the window’s button more than one time to roll your BMW’s window up and down, there could be an issue with the button that triggers the window regulator, but bring your car into the shop to get checked out by a technician.

Your Window Button Makes a Noise When Pressed

If you press the button to trigger the window into rolling up or down and hear a clicking sound, that could mean there is a failing window regulator. This is actually a common symptom of failure. It is caused by debris that is caught between the window and motor assembly. The particles in the regular causes it to work harder than designed, which affects the window itself. If you notice a clicking noise, bring your BMW in for inspection. If left untreated, the window can shatter, potentially causing injury to you and your passengers.

Euro Plus Automotive Will Fix your Window Regulator

Having a malfunctioning window can be an inconvenience which can lead to an expensive issue if left untreated. If you’ve noticed any of the above symptoms of a malfunctioning window regulator, come visit us at Euro Plus Automotive. We take pride in servicing the drivers of Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and Los Angeles County, CA.

We employ ASE certified technicians, and our thorough work is guaranteed by a 2-year/24,000-mile service warranty to each of the vehicles we service. Come see us today to discover why we are known as the Valley’s Import Specialists since 1984. We look forward to earning your patronage.

Reasons Behind Engine Misfires in BMWs

BMWs represent some of the highest quality in German engineering and innovation. Made to last and with quality in mind, it is unlikely you’ll experience issues with your car for sometime after purchase. However, even the best-made cars will show signs of wear and tear as they age, and in this article, we will be taking a closer look at engine misfires, what they are, what causes them, and what you should do about them.

What does it mean when an engine misfires?

We’ve all heard of the term “engine misfire,” but what actually happens under the hood when this happens? An engine misfire occurs when the engine of your vehicle skips or does not successfully complete one of the steps in the combustion process.

Most engines have a 4-step or 4-stroke combustion process. Step 1 is intake, which is where the piston, cylinder, and crankshaft of your car work together to let a mixture of fuel and air into your engine via the inlet valve.

Step 2 is compression, which begins with the closing of the inlet valve. The piston then retracts into the cylinder which tightly compresses the concoction of fuel and air, increasing its flammability. Once maximum pressure is reached, the spark plug fires.

Step 3 is power, otherwise known as combustion. The spark created by the spark plug causes a small explosion when it ignites, releasing a hot gas that causes the piston to drop. The energy that has been released now starts to power the crankshaft.

The final step is the exhaust. The outlet valve opens, and exhaust gases that have been created by the burning fuel are forced by the piston out of the exhaust pipe.

If any of these processes run incorrectly or fail to run, engine misfire will occur. Because of the different processes involved in the combustion of your car’s engine, misfire can be defined in multiple ways: lean misfire (to do with air/fuel ratio), ignition misfire (to do with any part involving in the ignition process, i.e., spark plugs), and mechanical misfires (to do with the failure of any of the car’s mechanical parts, i.e., pistons and valves).

Faulty Wiring

Misfires caused by faulty wiring can be quite common in BMWs as they age. The daily-use wiring that is required when your car is running are usually the first to show signs of deterioration. In regards to an engine, the most common fault can come from failed or faulty spark plug wiring. Without the spark plugs working effectively, your BMW will not be able to properly ignite the air/fuel mixture, meaning your car may not start or will run very poorly. Therefore, keeping your BMW’s spark plugs well maintained is essential.

Damage to Crank Position Sensor

As we’ve discussed, the crankshaft is essential to the running of your car’s engine. Because of this, it has a crank position sensor, which allows your BMW’s onboard computer to regulate the position of the shaft and the timing of the engine. This helps to ensure all the various parts and components are running smoothly. If this part is damaged, it is unlikely your car will start properly, if at all.

Head Gasket Damage

The head gasket is essential to achieve maximum fuel compression, which leads to the successful ignition of the fuel. If the head gasket becomes damaged, it can constitute a serious issue for your vehicle and should be dealt with immediately. If it is overlooked, it could seriously damaged your car by creating incorrect pressure, putting strain on other parts, or even causing a rupture or critical damage to them.

Euro Plus Automotive

Any issue involving the misfiring of your engine should be dealt with immediately and always at the hands of a professional mechanic. Luckily, if you’re a BMW owner in the Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles County, or surrounding areas of California, high-quality, knowledgeable auto repair is just around the corner. We are specialists in automotive German engineering. We will have you back on the road in no time.

When Should You Replace Your BMW’s Ignition Module?

BMW offers an exciting driving experience through engineering excellence, providing quality rides and vehicle longevity. BMWs also come with their own mechanical issues which owners should guard against, including a tendency for ignition module failure. Let’s talk about the importance of the ignition modules, signs and symptoms of failure, and when it is time for replacement of this integral component.

The Function of the Ignition Module

When you put your key inside your car’s ignition or push the start button, it sends a message to the ignition module to start the combustion cycle of the engine. This is accomplished by transmitting a spark down something called the “ignition coil” in order to start the car’s engine.So, if the ignition module isn’t functioning properly, there is no signal to begin the process of cycling the engine to drive your BMW.

Not only is this component integral to the ignition of your engine, but failure of this module can also cause problems while driving. When the ignition module begins to fail, your car may stall without warning. The engine may receive a false signal to stop the cycle. In this case, wherever or however you’re using your car, it may completely lose all power. As you can imagine, this can be incredibly dangerous for you, your passengers, and other drivers.

Ignition module failures can be incredibly dangerous if you are merging into heavy traffic or crossing traffic with oncoming cars in your path and your engine stalls. This is why it is of utmost importance to be aware of signs of ignition module failure. Protect yourself and your passengers by paying close attention to any sign of problems with starting your BMW.

Signs and Symptoms of an Ignition Module Failure

All of the symptoms listed below are common signs that something could be wrong with your ignition module. If you experience any of these problems, you need to have your BMW inspected as soon as possible:

• Your engine is making noises that indicate loss of power, such as stumbling or sputtering.
• You notice problems with acceleration, especially when merging into traffic or crossing a road. Hesitation or sluggish response when you push the gas pedal is a concerning symptom of ignition module problems.
• Your car is using gas less efficiently, causing you to fill up more frequently.
• Engine misfires can be caused by faulty signals from the ignition module. If you notice your engine struggling to perform at its norm, bring your BMW in for inspection as soon as possible.
• Your car’s stereo and other electrical systems are having intermittent power shortages.

Tools to Test the Ignition Module

If you are car savvy and a good DIYer, you can test the ignition module yourself at home. In order to do this, you will need a multimeter tool to assess the condition of the electrical system in the component itself. The ignition module has to have enough electricity to send to the ignition coils so that the spark plugs fire and begin the combustion process within your engine.

Testing your ignition module at home isn’t necessary, but if you’ve noticed some of the symptoms listed above, using this method can be a helpful way of figuring out what could be going on in your BMW. In the end, you’ll still need a trusted mechanic to inspect your car and determine what the right steps are in fixing the underlying problem.

Many will opt for simply taking their BMW to a trusted technician to perform the proper diagnostic testing quickly and efficiently. They will develop a plan of action with you and repair or replace the ignition module safely.

Euro Plus Automotive Will Fix a Failing Ignition Module

The dangers of a faulty ignition module are a true concern. It is important that you bring your car to a BMW specialist in order for the problem to be diagnosed properly and fixed quickly to get you back on the road safely.

If you need to replace the ignition module in your BMW, make the best choice for your car’s longevity and future performance by bringing it into Euro Plus Automotive. We serve the area of Los Angeles County in Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, and San Fernando Valley, CA. We are staffed with mechanics who are expertly trained and ready to address your vehicle’s needs. Call us today.

Where Should You Repair BMW Vacuum Hose Leaks in Canoga Park?

BMWs are generally praised by their owners as being powerful, reliable, and luxurious. You get a driving experience that some other cars just can’t provide. However, one of the more common issues that BMWs face is a damaged vacuum hose. The vacuum hose provides power to several components of your vehicle, including the cruise control, heating and cooling vents, and the exhaust bypass valve. As you may have guessed, these leaks can cause serious problems down the line. Below, let’s discuss what you can expect when your BMW’s vacuum hose leaks and where you can take care of the issue before it becomes costly and time consuming to repair.

Warning Signs of a Leaking Vacuum Hose

If the vacuum hose in your BMW starts to leak, you may notice some odd changes in your driving experience. These issues are symptoms of a deeper problem, and the root of the trouble could be your vacuum hose.

• The check engine light may come on. Many people ignore this warning light because it comes on for all sorts of reasons, but ignorance is never a wise choice. If the root cause of this warning is something like a leaking vacuum hose, doing nothing and hoping that the light turns off will only make the situation worse.
• When your vacuum hose is leaking, expect your fuel efficiency to decrease. If you find yourself needing to top off your fuel more often than usual, take note. Poor fuel efficiency could be a symptom of several problems, but in conjunction with the other signs, you can get a better picture of what you may be dealing with.
• Your engine may backfire. Vacuum hoses control most of the important parts of your BMW, and this is no exception. When the hose leaks, your engine can’t function as it should.
• You may hear a loud hissing noise coming from the engine, and it may stall as well. This is the same issue that also causes the engine of your BMW to backfire.
• Your BMW loses power. If the leak is advanced, then your BMW could lose power altogether. The longer that the problem goes unresolved, the worse your driving experience will be until you can’t even get on the road anymore.

Why Vacuum Hoses Leak in a BMW

Your vacuum hose could be leaking for a few reasons. Simple wear and tear is the most common issue, because the more you drive, the more your car parts wear down. This is inevitable, and all that you can do is have parts replaced when recommended.

Another major cause of vacuum hose leaks stem from the fact that the hoses are made of rubber. When you drive, the internal systems of your BMW heat up. While rubber can stand heat to a certain degree, the hose walls will weaken the longer they are exposed to it. This could cause the hose to breakdown more easily than it would otherwise.

Of course, your vacuum hose could be damaged due to outside forces. If you get into a car accident or encounter road debris, it stands to reason that multiple parts of the vehicle will suffer damage, including the vacuum hose.

Where to Get a Vacuum Hose Repaired

After reading the above, you may have realized that what you’re currently experiencing when you drive could be a leaky vacuum hose. The next step you should take is to find a reputable team of automotive technicians. If you are located in or around Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, or Los Angeles County, CA, the specialists at Euro Plus Automotive can repair your leaky vacuum hose quickly and without charging as much as a dealership. You can rest easy knowing that we care not only about your BMW, but about you as well. We want you to be able to get back on the road safely and live your life with as little hassle as possible. If you would like to make an appointment with the automotive technicians at Euro Plus Automotive, call us at (818) 710-8244. We look forward to becoming your trusted BMW shop for all your repair, maintenance, and service needs.