As winter approaches, it’s important for BMW owners to consider making a tire change to prepare for the harsh winter weather conditions. While many drivers may feel that all-season tires are enough to get them through the winter, there are several benefits to switching to winter tires that can make a significant difference in safety and performance.

Benefits Of A Winter Tire Change For BMW Owners

1. Improved Traction

Winter tires are specifically designed to provide better traction on snow and ice than all-season tires. They have deeper treads, which allows them to grip the road better and provide better traction. The rubber used in winter tires is also softer than that used in all-season tires, which allows the tires to conform to the road better in colder temperatures. This can be particularly important for BMW owners, who may have high-performance vehicles that require optimal traction to perform at their best.

2. Better Handling

Winter tires not only improve traction, but they also improve handling. BMWs are known for their handling capabilities, but these capabilities can be hindered by all-season tires in winter weather conditions. Winter tires have stiffer sidewalls than all-season tires, which helps the tires to maintain their shape and provide better handling. They also have a more aggressive tread pattern, which can help to improve handling on wet or slushy roads.

3. Shorter Braking Distances

In winter weather conditions, stopping distances can be much longer than in normal conditions. Winter tires can help to reduce braking distances by providing better traction and grip. This can be particularly important for BMW owners who may be driving high-performance vehicles that require optimal braking distances to perform at their best.

4. Increased Safety

Perhaps the most important benefit of a winter tire change for BMW owners is increased safety. Winter weather conditions can be unpredictable and hazardous, and it’s important to take every precaution to ensure that you and your passengers are safe on the road. Winter tires can help to reduce the risk of accidents by providing better traction, handling, and braking in snowy and icy conditions.

5. Protect Your Investment

BMW owners typically invest a significant amount of money in their vehicles. Winter tires can help to protect that investment by reducing wear and tear on your all-season tires. All-season tires are not designed for use in winter conditions, and using them in those conditions can cause them to wear out more quickly. Winter tires, on the other hand, are designed to handle cold temperatures and winter weather conditions, which means they are less likely to wear out prematurely.

6. Better Fuel Efficiency

Winter tires can actually help to improve your BMW’s fuel efficiency. When all-season tires are used in winter weather conditions, they can become stiff and inflexible, which can cause your vehicle to consume more fuel. Winter tires, on the other hand, are designed to remain flexible in colder temperatures, which means your BMW will be able to run more efficiently and consume less fuel.

7. Increased Resale Value

If you’re planning to sell your BMW in the future, investing in winter tires can help to increase its resale value. Winter tires are considered a valuable asset by many car buyers, and having them installed on your vehicle can make it more attractive to potential buyers. This can help you to get a better price for your BMW when it comes time to sell.

There are many benefits to a winter tire change for BMW owners. Winter tires can provide improved traction, handling, and braking, increased safety, protection for your investment, better fuel efficiency, and increased resale value. While all-season tires may be adequate for some winter driving conditions, switching to winter tires can make a significant difference in the safety and performance of your BMW. Investing in winter tires is an investment in your safety and the longevity of your BMW.

Bring Your BMW To Glenwood Foreign Car

Glenwood Foreign Car located in Yardley, PA, is the best place to go to get winter tires on your BMW. From trusted brands to experienced staff who offer only the highest quality of service, Glenwood Foreign Car delivers a superior experience every time. Whether you need all-season or winter tires specifically designed for your particular BMW model, we provide a comprehensive selection of products that best suit your needs. We proudly service customers from Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville. Book an appointment with us today and get the best tires for winter roads.

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Extra repairs and maintenance may be required as you use your BMW for a long time. One of the major repairs you might encounter with your BMW is a vacuum hose leak. BMWs are high-performance luxury automobiles with a unique design that combines a stylish exterior with a gorgeous and relaxing interior. Under the hood, you’ll find a powerful and long-lasting engine, but all vehicles require routine maintenance to avoid problems like vacuum hose leaks. Let’s take a look at the use of a vacuum hose as well as the symptoms that tell us if it is leaking.

The Importance of the Vacuum Hose

Most cars, including BMW’s models, have at least one vacuum hose, if not many. The number of vacuum hoses on your BMW is determined by its age. Older versions had additional vacuum hoses, since the systems beneath the hood were more complicated at the time and required many connections to keep everything running smoothly.

The systems have become more complex as newer BMW models have hit the market, but technology has progressed so they now use fewer vacuum hoses. With that said, vacuum hoses are required to supply a vacuum from the intake manifold to a component that demands it.

The intake manifold is one of the primary components that provide power to other parts. It transports the combusted air and fuel mixture needed for your BMW’s full function. The PCV valve, HVAC controls, brake booster, and heating control valve are all parts that need the vacuum hose. It is inefficient to connect all of these components to the intake manifold directly. As a result, vacuum hoses serve a useful purpose. They allow all of the parts that are connected to them to function properly.

Symptoms of a Vacuum Hose Leak

Here are some things to look for when trying to identify a leakage in the vacuum hose;

• Check Engine Light: The check engine light comes on as the first warning that something is happening with the vacuum hoses. All the vacuum hoses are surrounded by several sensors. If there is a leak, the sensors will detect them and inform you. The check engine light will then notify you of the leak. It is good to pay attention to the check engine light since it might indicate anything from a simple vacuum hose leak to something more serious.
• Malfunctioning Engine: Another indicator of a leakage in the vacuum hose is that the engine may not function effectively. Because one or more of the components attached to a vacuum hose aren’t getting enough power, the engine will malfunction. As a result of the absence of power, the linked parts will not work correctly. Your engine will be underpowered and there would be a rough and erratic idle in addition to engine issues.
• Engine Fails Start: The third indicator of a vacuum hose leak is that the engine will not start. This is likely to happen if the leak is severe or has been there for a long time without being repaired. The pressure in the hose will be too high as a result of the leak and the head gasket will be forced out. When this occurs, the cylinder head hardware might fail, forcing combustion to happen within the engine rather than in the combustion chamber.

If you detect any of the three indicators of a vacuum hose leak listed above, you should bring your BMW in for service right away. A qualified mechanic would be able to diagnose and repair any issues that your BMW may have.

Expert Repairs for Your BMW Model

At Glenwood Foreign Care, we specialize in all European automobiles, including BMW. We have been helping car owners from Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA to get their BMWs back on the road like new.

To find the vacuum hose leak and detect any other parts that may have been damaged as a result of the leak, we use the most up-to-date diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact problem, so we can then review your options. Book an appointment with one of our skilled and qualified technicians by calling us today!

* BMW 3-Series Car image credit goes to: teddyleung.

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Your BMW is equipped with high-quality tires of impressive durability to be able to handle its high-performance standards. For a car as powerful as a BMW, it is still very important to have the tires serviced on a regular basis so as to avoid any unwanted incidents that could result from damage or worn tires.

Understanding the warning signs of your BMW’s tires will help you determine the perfect time to have your tires serviced. Servicing your BMW’s tires at the right time can help save your car from an even more endangering threat that could result from a completely damaged tire.

The Lifespan of BMW Tires

BMW cars use high-quality tires with a durable lifespan. Although the BMW tire has an impressive service life, its mileage is dependent on the nature of the roads it is being used on, as well as how frequently it has been used.

Under the right circumstances, your BMW tires can last an average of 40,000 miles or more. However, with the right maintenance routine, the tire life can be extended. Hence, it is very important to have your BMW tires serviced. Just like any other part of your BMW, your tires are slowly going to show you signs of an impending failure due to current distress. Ignoring these signs is detrimental to the lifespan of your tires.

Signs Showing Your BMW Tires Need Servicing

Driving your car on damaged or worn tires can be very dangerous and life-threatening as it can lead to tire failure. Hence, it is very important to visually inspect your tires regularly, if possible every week. No matter how busy you might be, it takes just a few minutes to have your car tires inspected. All it takes is for you to walk around your car and look for the danger sign of tire damage.

Outlined here are the major warning signs of an impending tire failure. If you discover any of these signs, make sure to take your BMW to a certified automotive specialist to have it serviced:

Low Depth of Tire Tread

The tread of your BMW tires is what allows for actual contact between the tire and the road, providing the grip that is required to brake and maneuver effectively. The depth measurement of a healthy tire tread on a vehicle is above 4/32nds of an inch.

Tires with a lower depth or swallow treads increase the workload of the car’s internal system, resulting in the premature wear and tear of brake or engine components. Another detriment of this is hydroplaning and the lack of traction control. To avoid all of these, it is vital to always conduct a routine check on your tires.

Strange Vibrations

Experiencing a small number of vibrations while driving your car can be normal, most especially when you are driving over a rough road path or an uneven terrain. However, it should become a thing of worry if you notice that the vibration is excessive.

The vibration of your car can be an indicator of the failure of your tire system. If while you are bringing your car to a halt, you notice a vibration, then it could be a tire-related issue. If you notice the vibration while driving, and you find your BMW pulling to one side of the road, then that is a sign that your wheels are out of alignment and unbalanced. None of these should be ignored as they can be easily handled by a certified BMW specialist.

Bulges, Blisters, or Cracks

If you reside in an area with frequent temperature variations, your tires may wear down and dry up faster than usual. It’s also crucial to inspect your tires on a regular basis for cracks or bulges in the sidewall since these can develop into dry rot, which can cause a tire blowout or other tire failure. If you observe any bulging, cracking, or formation of blisters along the tire’s sidewall, make an appointment to get it changed right away.

Schedule an Appointment With Glenwood Foreign Cars

If your vehicle shows any of the warning signs listed above, simply stop by or go online to schedule a convenient appointment with us at Glenwood Foreign Car today! Glenwood Foreign Car has been your service center for foreign cars since 1977. We proudly serve our customers from Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA regions, as well as surrounding areas. Call us today!

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If you own a BMW with a N52 engine, you may come across a lifter ticking issue. If you have heard this infamous ticking noise from your engine bay, you’re not alone. There are dozens of BMW forums dedicated to diagnosing this problem, so let’s unpack the cause of the noise and discuss what can be done to fix it.

Some Background on the N52 Engine

The BMW N52 is a naturally-aspirated, straight-six gasoline engine which was produced from 2004 to 2015. It features their patented Valvetronic system, a variable valve lift system, in the motor.

The engine was considered to be the most advanced engine that BMW had produced. That was short-lived, as a while later, BMW drivers noticed a ticking sound. Even the best car enthusiasts could not diagnose or avoid this issue. There was something fundamentally wrong with the hydraulic valve lifter.

The issue was more prominent during colder weather. Some drivers noted that the sound could be heard during short drives. This also often presented itself after the vehicle has done 50000 miles.

A considerable amount of time later, the noise was found to be caused by a faulty hydraulic valve lifter.

Your BMW’s lifters play a major role in regulating the direction of exhaust valves. Lifters can be customized to your preference, giving the engine more power. This component makes room under the hood of your car, so that various parts of the engine can expand and contract when you push your motor to high performance.

What causes the ticking noise and possible solutions?

• Lack of lubrication: When the hydraulic valve lifters lack lubrication, it makes a ticking noise. The reason you may find the sound worse during cold weather is that the lubricant requires heat to function effectively. When the metal parts rub against each other, they create friction. This wears down the parts rapidly. It takes the eye of a trained professional to pick up this fault. You should bring your vehicle into our trusted service center to receive a proper diagnosis.
• Cold climate: We all know that metal will contract when exposed to cold. When it is very cold, the metal on these components also contract, making it more difficult for them to operate as efficiently as it would in warmer temperatures. The increased wear and tear that your BMW can go through because of freezing temperatures can lead to premature lifter ticking.
• The accumulation of dirt and other particulates: Natural wear and tear over time can cause the hydraulic valve lifter to start ticking. Another issue is the dirt and particulates collecting in the engine. Regular service can prevent dirt and sludge build up quite easily. During routine service, the fluids are replaced and most issues can be avoided. If your vehicle is regularly maintained by a professional repair center, you will avoid most unnecessary complications.
• Replacement parts: The unfortunate design flaw of the lifter ticking is found on older models. Seeing as BMW no longer provides the part, they have suggested that BMW owners get the cylinder head This has to be done by a professional with factory-grade equipment.
• Loose or broken parts: Wear and tear over time can cause damage to certain small parts. If there are loose bolts, or other small parts of the hydraulic valve filter are broken, this will cause a ticking noise. Thankfully, these are easily replaceable at minimal cost to you. This problem is rarely found on new models. However, it is good to take note of the causes and potential solutions, should you find yourself faced with the issue.

Let Our Experts Help You

Glenwood Foreign cars has been servicing European vehicles since 1977. As previously mentioned, BMW used to replace the part but that is no longer the case. This doesn’t stop us from finding the best solution to your lifter ticking problem.

With over 40 years of experience, our expert technicians will diagnose the problem and help you get back on the road safely. Visit us if you live in Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA. We are a Bosch certified service center, so you can be assured that you will get quality parts and that your vehicle will be serviced to the industry standards BMW set forth. Call us today!

* BMW 3 Series Car image credit goes to: D. Lentz.

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One of the main appeals of BMWs, besides their luxury and charm, are their alloy wheels. This type of wheel has become more of a commodity since they look good, come in a variety of styles, and can easily be sized up on a car. Unfortunately, alloy wheels are more prone to cracks, scratches, and damage than other wheel types.

Alloy wheels on BMWs can become cracked for a myriad of reasons, and many of them are unavoidable. Most of the time, potholes, curbs, or other road issues are the reason behind cracked alloy wheels. We can do our best to avoid these areas of the road, but sometimes we miss them or don’t see them until the last second and it’s too late.

If you have alloy wheels in your BMW, they are especially prone to cracks due to the nature of the wheels. Alloy is highly malleable, which makes these wheels extremely customizable. The downside is that they are not as sturdy as other types of wheels, and are prone to cracking even with a small bit of force.

The larger the wheel, the less room for error. Since many alloy wheels are sized up, the amount of rubber between the wheel’s edge and the tire is reduced, leading to greater impact on the wheel when going over bumps in the road.

What to Do If Your Alloy Wheels Are Damaged

Wheel damage can range from small fissures to larger cracks, as well as dents and bends. If you experience any sort of damage to your wheels, it is best to seek professional help immediately.

Keep in mind, driving with cracked wheels is extremely discouraged as it could lead to even further damage, or a blow out. The last thing you want to do is endanger yourself or others on the road because of bad wheels.

If you notice your alloy wheel is cracked with damage to a lug nut hole, replacing the wheel is your best option. Bends in the frame often lead to cracks if you try to fix it yourself without the proper tools or equipment. With cracks, the repairs are more labor intensive and usually require welding some parts. Instead of letting it get to this point, take your BMW to a professional who can properly repair and restore your alloy wheels.

If you want to lessen the probability that your BMWs wheels suffer damage, check the type of tires you have. Most modern BMWs use run-flat tires. While these tires don’t require as much maintenance, they are proven to add extra stress on your wheels, leading to cracks and other damage more often. Switching tires to a more traditional brand will ease the load on the wheels and can help prevent cracking or other future damage.

Repair or Replace?

The good news is that most small cracks that aren’t very deep are easy to fix. Even if the crack is large, if it’s shallow, it should be an easy enough repair. The real trouble comes with either a small crack is too deep, or you have a large, deep gouge in the wheel. In that case, it is better to replace the wheel altogether.

If you notice a crack, fissure, or scratch, it is best to bring your BMW to a trusted technician to have it inspected. A trusted mechanic will determine if the wheel can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced entirely. Keep in mind that it may be cheaper in the long run to simply replace the wheel, since alloy wheels are already susceptible to damage in the first place.

Glenwood Foreign Car for Your Alloy Wheels

At Glenwood Foreign Car, we will inspect your BMWs wheels and determine if they can be repaired or need to be replaced. We understand how important it is to keep your car’s wheels looking great, so we go the extra mile to ensure that you can get back out on the road with peace of mind.

Our technicians have served clients across Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA. Call or stop in today to see why Glenwood Foreign Car has been Morrisville’s premiere BMW service center for decades.

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

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The BMW brand is unparalleled in comfort and performance, requiring regular maintenance and bookings with specialty professionals to preserve your vehicle’s premium quality and driving comfort. One of those components is the ignition module.

The ignition module is the integral component in your BMW which starts the process to run your engine. It essentially acts as the on or off switch for your car.

Any damage to it can lead to a no-start condition. When this happens, you cannot use your BMW until the ignition module is replaced.

In this article, we will review the most common signs that your BMW ignition module needs replacing. We will also offer you advice on any further actions needed to maintain your BMW’s superior driving condition.

Warning Signs of BMW Ignition Module Failure

Below are some of the most common warning signs that your BMW ignition module needs replacing. Changing out the ignition module is not an unusual maintenance service. It is necessary for basic functioning of your BMW as well as maintaining its valuable comfort and performance. To ensure that your BMW continues to run smoothly every time you start your car, check out these warning signs of problems:

Sudden Ignition Failure

If your vehicle stalls unexpectedly and then becomes unresponsive, this is a serious sign that your BMW ignition module could need replacing. This is due to losing power and could be a result of faulty wiring or corrosion of internal mechanisms affecting the starting of the vehicle.

This is a serious safety issue for you and the drivers around you and can be extremely dangerous when operating your car. Therefore, it is recommended you schedule regular inspection appointments at a trusted automotive service provider to ensure the safety and performance of your BMW.

Overheating

One of the first signs of overheating is if your temperature gauge on your dashboard is reading higher than normal numbers for temperatures. Pay attention to the signals on your dashboard as they can often signify car issues before any physical sound, visual, or smell is detected by you.

Stalling

Additionally, if the engine starts stalling or stuttering regularly, the car may be overheating. A more severe sign of overheating is if you see smoke coming from the inner mechanisms of the BMW. High temperatures can cause further damage to your vehicle parts and worsen any damage.

It is important to seek out professional services should you observe any of these warning signs.

How to Test for Ignition Module Failure

A light timing tester is available for you to use when you want to test your ignition module for failure. If you connect the timer test to your battery and it blinks, your ignition module does not need replacing. If there is no blinking light, then this indicates that your ignition module is faulty and needs replacing by an expert.

The test for ignition module failure is completely optional, and if you are experiencing the more severe warning signs like sudden ignition failure and overheating, take your BMW to a trusted professional repair center immediately.

Glenwood Foreign Will Replace Your BMW Ignition Module

Glenwood Foreign Car is an expert automotive service provider. We are the best place to go for clients experiencing BMW ignition module failure in the Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA communities.

Our highly-trained mechanics use factory-recommended materials and the latest manufacturer-grade tools to provide premium quality services for your BMW. We will inspect and diagnose your problem quickly and report the findings to you before you make a decision on how to proceed with our advice.

We are also committed to customer service and premium performance. We keep these goals in mind as our experienced professionals work to replace your ignition module of your BMW. With decades of experience in quality services, we ensure you will have an easy and convenient experience at Glenwood Foreign Car.

If you would like us to replace your BMW ignition module or would like to learn more about our other specialty services, please contact us today. We look forward to becoming your BMW service center for all your car needs.

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European car buyers know the BMW is a highly-engineered vehicle with a reputation of durability and being stylish. Owners show their trust in the manufacturer by continuing to purchase BMW designed vehicles year after year.

One design-related problem with BMW’s is their tendency to leak oil through the alternator seal. We will discuss this common issue with BMW vehicles and what you can do to prevent harm to your engine when this seal fails.

Purpose of an Alternator Bracket Seal

The alternator is an essential part of your car’s system. Working with your battery, it keeps your vehicle’s electrical system working properly and prevents your battery from draining by maintaining a charge.

Alternators are mounted on a bracket attached to your BMW’s motor. These brackets have seals between the engine and itself to keep your engine oil contained inside. When these seals fail, they can be detrimental to your engine.

Below are a few signs your alternator seal may be faulty:

• Puddles of oil may appear under your BMW when leaking from the alternator seal. Make a habit of watching for oil stains in your driveway and garage. If you see puddles of oil, have your vehicle taken to an experienced BMW technician for inspection.
• Low oil levels will appear if your BMW’s alternator seal begins to leak. Have your fluid levels checked routinely during servicing of your vehicle or at home. A properly-trained technician will recognize low levels and begin an investigation into why you are losing oil. Driving with low levels of oil can be hazardous to your car’s engine.
• Burning oil smell may occur when oil leaks onto your BMW’s hot engine block or exhaust. The smell will be pronounced outside of your vehicle, although it may be present in the interior also. Most of the time, the smell of burning oil will be accompanied by smoke rising from the engine compartment, noticeable when the vehicle is parked. If too much oil drips onto a hot engine, a fire may result, have your car checked by a professional if you have any signs of burning oil.
• The presence of a low oil pressure or check engine light may be caused by low oil levels due to a leak in your alternator seal. This is only one of the reasons your warning lights may trigger. If one of these indicators occurs, bring your car to an experienced BMW trained technician, who can diagnose the reason for the warning indication.
• An overheated engine may occur if your oil level drops below its required levels. When the moving parts of your engine lose their protection from friction, it results in heat. Too much heat can overwhelm your coolant system and cause your engine to heat beyond its normal capacity. If your BMW overheats, stop and turn off your engine. Overheating can cause a catastrophic failure in your motor if allowed to continue to run. Have your BMW taken to a certified shop for inspection if overheating occurs.

Why an Alternator Seal Fails

Over time, the alternator seal on a BMW will dry out and crack, allowing oil to seep by it and into the environment. All vehicle manufacturers have some minor design flaws, and this happens to be one for specific BMW models such as the 745i, X5, e65, and the 550i and a few others.

If any signs appear, you may have an oil leak from your alternator bracket seal, or anywhere else, your experienced technician will be able to troubleshoot and complete a repair.

Glenwood Foreign Car will Repair a Leaking Alternator Seal

Our trained technicians at Glenwood Foreign Car know that replacing your alternator seal will only prolong the inevitable leak. We can spot the problem and address it with a long term solution to prevent a leak from occurring again.

Serving the surrounding communities of Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA, we service and repair high-end vehicles, including most European models. Please make an appointment with us today to have your vehicle serviced and give you the peace of mind and confidence you need in your BMW.

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BMW is a thrilling performance vehicle to own. Not only will you be riding in style as you cruise the roads, you can rest assured in the fact that they are also built for safety. Regardless of the model you drive, each BMW will provide you with an exceptional performance standard for as long as you own it, especially when a proper maintenance schedule is kept.

Even with your servicing diligence, there may be additional issues that occur. One of them is a coolant leak. Below you will find out more about what the coolant does in your BMW and what can cause a coolant leak to occur.

The Purpose of Coolant in your BMW

The coolant’s main function in your BMW is to keep the engine cool. It flows through the engine to absorb all the excess heat that comes from the engine while it is running.

The coolant is stored in a reservoir that is attached to the radiator so it has to go through the radiator in addition to the engine. After the coolant is done circulating through the engine, it reaches back to the radiator and is cooled down by the intake of air that the radiator is supplying from the outside of your BMW. Then the coolant continues to circulate through the engine, constantly absorbing the heat and then being cooled down again once it is back at the radiator.

Hole in the Radiator

As the engine is working, it is constantly emitting heat. In order to prevent the engine from overheating, a mixture of coolant and water is circulated through. As this mixture is flowing through the engine, it is bound to get hot. As previously stated, this is why the coolant also passes through the radiator, because the radiator is going to chill the coolant again. This way, the coolant mixture can continue circulating through the engine and be successful in keeping the engine temperature at a stable level.

When there is a hole in the radiator, a coolant leak will occur in your BMW. So instead of the coolant chilling back down to continue its circulation through the engine, it begins to leak out of the radiator. A hole in the radiator can occur over time with general wear and tear. A hole can also appear if debris or rocks come in forceful contact with the radiator. Regardless of how the hole got in your BMS’s radiator, the coolant will eventually leak out, which can lead to the possibility of an overheated engine.

Incorrect Radiator Cap

The radiator works as a pressurized system, and in order for this system to function properly, the cap that holds the coolant in needs to be just right. If the radiator cap is the incorrect size, when the coolant enters the system, it will leak out through the cap. This will be due to the fact that when the coolant heats up, it can cause an overflow if the cap is not in place. Without the correct cap, coolant will spill out the top instead of remaining circulating through the system.

This same issue can occur if the radiator cap is broken. With a crack or hole in the cap itself, the radiator system will not be pressurized. Thus, leading to spillage of coolant.

Fixing the Coolant Leak

Addressing a coolant leak as soon as you become aware of it is the best way to keep your BMW functioning at its optimal level. It is important to know the reasons behind a coolant leak, but it is also helpful to know what signs to look for. If the coolant leak is big enough, you will see evidence of it underneath the front of your BMW.

You will also be notified of a coolant leak via your BMW’s dashboard. The temperature gauge will not stay level. It will remain toward the hotter end of the scale because there will be no coolant running through the engine to keep it cool.

If you notice any of these signs, it is time to bring your BMW in for servicing from a trusted and skilled technician. At Glenwood Foreign Car, we will provide you with just that. All of our technicians keep current and up-to-date certifications so they are fully equipped to diagnose a coolant leak in your BMW.

We value you as a customer, so we strive to make the repair process as smooth and easy as possible. With our location easily accessible from the areas of Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA, you will be able to make an appointment with us today to have your coolant leak fixed.

The post Reasons Behind BMW Coolant Leaks From Certified Mechanics in Morrisville appeared first on Glenwood Foreign Car.

BMWs are well-known for the incredible performance and reliability they offer. Made to last and packed with intelligent innovations, a well-cared for BMW is unlikely to ever let you down. However, in even the very best cars, sometimes problems just happen. When not attended, issues can result in you being without your car until repairs are paid for out of pocket. One such common problem is coolant leaks. While they may seem irksome or minor, it is important that they are not ignored. In this article, we will learn about coolant leaks, how to identify them, and where to go for help.

What is the purpose of coolant?

Coolant, or antifreeze, is a brightly colored liquid, most often pink or green. It has a distinctively sweet smell. It is a mixture of distilled water and alcohol with added dye, for safety reasons. The primary role of your coolant is to absorb the tremendous amount of heat created by a running engine. This is done by cycling the coolant around the engine in a continuous cycle, being cooled back down by the radiator after each loop.

The coolant can also help prevent freezing within the engine system, which is why it contains alcohol. This is useful to drivers in cold areas, as the alcohol prevents the liquid from freezing over, meaning the coolant can be effective all year round.

How to Tell if you have a Coolant Leak

Due to its intentional bright colour and distinctive smell, coolant leaks are usually quite easy to spot and diagnose. To confirm your suspicions, place a piece of cardboard under your BMW when it is parked overnight. In the morning, you can study the liquid leaking from your vehicle more closely and make your conclusions. Alternatively, if the liquid is dark, then it an engine oil leak, but if it is clear and without odor, your leak will be transmission fluid.

How do coolant leaks impact upon your BMW?

While they may appear a minor issue, coolant leaks are a serious issue and should be dealt with swiftly. They greatly impede your engine performance, and in a worst case scenario, they can cause complete and irreparable engine damage.

1. Engine Overheating

As the coolant’s main job is to cool down your engine, one of the first signs of a leak in the system is usually overheating. This can manifest in many ways, such as smoke emitting from under the hood or a spike in the engine temperature. If this happens, you’ll have to pull over and assess the issue.

2. Poor Fuel Economy

If your leak is slow, then clear signs such as overheating may not show at first. Instead, you’ll most likely notice a decrease in fuel efficiency due to the engine not being able to operate at peak performance. Bad gas mileage can also be caused by many other issues, but if you’ve ruled out the most common culprits, then it could be caused by leaking coolant.

3. Contaminated Engine Oil

Depending on the cause of the leak, you might notice that your oil and coolant has mixed. This is a serious issue, as it dilutes the engine oil and prevents it from doing its critical role effectively. The coolant can also corrode and damage the interior of your engine if left unremedied.

Causes of Coolant Leaks

There are 2 main reasons behind coolant leaks that drivers should be aware of:

1. Holes or Cracks in the Radiator

If the radiator becomes worn or corroded, it may develop leaks or cracks which can allow coolant to escape. This causes the pressure inside the system to drop, impacting upon the radiator performance. This problem can also be caused by damaged incurred when driving, such as impact with rocks or debris.

2. Faulty Head Gaskets

Faults in the head gasket can cause internal leaks, which is the most common cause of engine oil contamination and will need expert care to fix.

Act Swiftly

If you suspect a coolant leak, it is essential that you do not delay in seeking repairs. While symptoms might seem minor at first, it is important to remember that they will only get worse and can critically impact the health of your vehicle.

For BMW repairs and services that you can trust, visit Glenwood Foreign Car of Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA.

The post How Does a Coolant Leak Affect Your BMW From Experienced Mechanics in Morrisville appeared first on Glenwood Foreign Car.

Driving a BMW is a luxury that comes with a performance level set higher above other vehicles in its class. When you purchase a BMW, you know that you are driving a vehicle that is meant to last and look good while doing so. As your BMW gets older and you get more use out of it, there are some parts that may need servicing. One of those parts is the fuel injector. Below, you will find information on what the fuel injector is and the symptoms to look for if you think this part is failing.

What is the Fuel Injector System

The fuel injector system is made up of multiple parts that are responsible for sending the engine the correct mixture of fuel and air in order for the engine to function properly. Depending on what type of injector system you have in your BMW, the fuel will be fired from the take to either the inlet manifold or the inlet port. When the fuel is fired, it is done in a fashion where the fuel will come out as a fine mist. When the fuel reaches the inlet manifold or the inlet port, it will mix with the air, and this combination enters the combustion chamber.

In regards to the injectors, they are screwed to the inlet manifest, and this is the part that sprays the fuel into the necessary fine mist. There are two types of fuel injectors that can be found in your BMW. The first will continuously run when the engine is on and running. The second type is a timed injection where the fuel comes out in bursts and these bursts coincide with the cylinder. If the fuel injector is manual, it uses a spring that is released when there is fuel pressure. If the injector is on an electronic system, a magnet controls when the spring is released.

Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Injector

Knowing the signs that point to a failing fuel injector is the first step when trying to identify whether or not to take your BMW in for service. The first symptom is that it may be difficult starting your BMW. When the fuel injectors need to be replaced, your BMW will not receive the necessary amount of fuel in order to start properly. So, your BMW will be difficult to start.

The second symptom is decreased gas mileage. When you notice that your BMW seems to have less gas mileage than before, then you know that there could be an issue with the fuel injectors. If the proper and sufficient amount of fuel is not getting injected into the engine or the mixture is not correct, the gas mileage will be negatively impacted.

The third symptom of a failing fuel injector is that you BMW now has a rough idle. A rough idle means that while your BMW is turned on but not moving, it is shaking more than normal or it is making noises that you have not heard before. This rough idling indicates that the fuel is not being injected into the engine smoothly. There are many reasons as to why the fuel is not injecting properly, but one of the main ones is that the injector is clogged or dirty. The dirt will prevent the fuel injector from performing as intended.

Taking Your BMW in for Servicing

The first step is being aware of the signs and symptoms for when you should bring your BMW in for an inspection of the fuel injector. The next step is to actually bring in your BMW to a garage you trust. At Glenwood Foreign Car, you will find unrivaled service on European vehicles. Conveniently accessible from the areas of Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA, you will find an automotive shop that cares about your BMW as much as you do. You can rest assured knowing your BMW is being serviced by an expert technician that has dealership knowledge and experience without the dealership pricing. When you bring your BMW to Glenwood Foreign Car, a technician will be able to pinpoint the exact reason behind the fuel injector failure. The technician will then go over the options you have for repair or replacement and provide you with honest, affordable prices.

The post When to Carry Out Fuel Injector Service on Your BMW in Morrisville appeared first on Glenwood Foreign Car.