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Diesel engine models fitted with Variable Geometry turbos can suffer with the Variable Geometry turbo sticking which results in a loss of power/performance and the engine management light coming on storing a fault code for turbo boost condition. The fault is caused by incomplete combustion and soot particles in the exhaust gases stick to the turbo vanes that are baked on due to heat. This can also happen after the vehicle has been sitting at speed on the motorway for a long period. For example, when stopping at services, the next start-up can cause an over boost situation where the vanes of the turbo are stuck open. In some cases this can blow the intake pipe off the air box.

There are a number of clutch related issues that can affect several of the models in the 3 series line up. So who better than replacement clutch specialist Borg & Beck to highlight three of the most common problems that technicians should look out for?

Self-Adjusting Clutch Fitment

The BMW 3 series is fitted with a self-adjusting clutch and great care is needed when fitting a replacement, particularly with regard to the three self-adjusting springs. When the replacement clutch is removed from its packaging the technician should first check that each spring is still in its compressed state (a) and has not become extended due to mishandling (b).

Thanks to a new tester from the ContiTech Power Transmission Group, checking the condition of multiple
V-ribbed belts is now easy for workshops. The belt wear tester reliably detects the degree of wear by checking the profile geometry of the individual ribs. This enables professionals to determine precisely whether the multiple V-ribbed belt needs to be changed.

Engine Oil

For this particularly 3 series, BMW list only one or two specifications for engine oil which should be covered by Comma Longlife 5W30 or Syner Z 5W30 for the later cars. However, always use Comma’s application guide available at www.commaoil.com to make sure you get the right product for the vehicle you are servicing.

All models 2005 onwards

A common problem when driving on rough roads is noise from the front suspension. This is particularly noticeable when starting from cold. The cause is typically the front anti roll bar bushes being worn. To fix they need to be replaced with the new upgraded anti roll bar bushes.

4 door models 2005-08

The central locking will not work and the remote key will not operate the central locking. Fault codes A5D4 and A5D6 will be logged. The cause is a blown central locking fuse, due to faulty door central locking motors causing excess current draw. To rectify new door central locking motors need to be fitted to the affected doors.

The BMW E90 3-Series (2005-2011) replaced the BMW E45, consolidating the range of available engine sizes and introducing a smaller capacity 1.6-litre engine alongside the 2.0-litre, 2.5-litre and 3.0-litre petrol engines, and 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre diesel engines.

Castrol points out that every engine in the E90 3-Series range was designed to run on fully-synthetic, low viscosity Castrol EDGE 0W-30 engine oil, the only oil actively recommended by BMW.  The oil filler cap even acknowledges as much, serving as a reminder to motorists and workshops which lubricant BMW points out is best for the car.

We believe these are the areas in need of extra attention for the early BMW 3 Series 05 diesels.

Bearings fail in the high-pressure fuel pump; the resolution is to change the pump.

Leaking water pumps and cam cover gaskets can be a problem with the BMW 325i.

3 Series as a whole suffers ABS sensor problems, accounting for 37% of sales for top 20 Cambiare lines pertaining to the 3 Series model. Care should be taken to ensure that it is actually the sensor that is required when diagnosing, since poor connections can result in water ingress to the multi-plug, which can give the same code readings.

Louise Hebborn gives you an insight into the rules around business rates. If you know the ins and outs of it, you might be able to save some money.

The biggest change in PAYE since the end of World War II is coming and businesses need to be ready, says Jason Piper. Here’s what you need to do.

Businesses need to get up to speed with the soon to be compulsory Real Time Information (RTI) that will overhaul the way PAYE works in the UK.

Failing to properly check that your workers have the right to work in the UK could land you with big fines or even a prison term, says Amir Zaidi

The recent allegation that ECP negligently employed illegal workers means it now faces fines of up to £10,000 for each case. For those companies which knowingly hire illegal workers, the risk is of an unlimited fine and/or a prison sentence of up to two years.