IF YOUR BMW MAKES THIS HORRIBLE SOUND, here's how to fix it

Summary

This instructional video addresses a common issue with BMW F generation models, where a grinding or rattling noise emanates from the center console due to a broken plastic clip holding the parking brake cables. The clip can be replaced with an affordable part from fcpeuro.com, part number 34 40 6 8 54 8 98. The video provides a step-by-step guide to replace the clip, including jacking up the car, removing the steel plate, exhaust, and heat shielding, and lowering the fuel tank for access. Despite BMW's reputation for quality, the video criticizes their use of plastic over metal for such critical components.

Takeaways

• 🔧 The video is a tutorial for fixing a common issue with BMW F generation cars, specifically a grinding or rattling noise from the center console.
• 🚗 Affected models include 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, M3, and M4, and the problem can occur during hard acceleration or while the car is in gear.
• 🔍 The source of the noise is a plastic clip that holds the parking brake cables, which can break and cause the cables to drag on the drive shaft.
• 🛠️ The clip is made of cheap, brittle plastic that can easily snap, leading to the noise issue that worsens over time.
• 📍 The noise is amplified in the car's interior because it originates from under the armrest.
• 🛒 The part needed to fix the issue is a genuine BMW retainer clip, part number 34 40 6 85 48 99, which can be purchased for around eight dollars.
• 🔩 The repair process involves jacking up the car, removing the steel plate, lowering the exhaust, and removing heat shielding to access the clip.
• ⚠️ A full fuel tank should be avoided during this repair; the car should be driven until nearly empty to prevent fuel spillage.
• 🔨 The repair requires loosening the fuel tank straps to drop the tank slightly, allowing access to the bolt for the new clip.
• 👷‍♂️ The video provides a step-by-step guide to replacing the clip, including reassembling the car's components after the repair.
• 🤔 The video also expresses frustration with BMW's use of plastic over metal for certain parts, suggesting it may contribute to the longevity issues of their vehicles.

Q & A

What is the common issue discussed in the video regarding BMW F generation cars?

The common issue is an annoying grinding or rattling sound coming from inside the car's center console, which is caused by the parking brake cables dragging on the drive shaft due to a broken plastic clip.

Which BMW models are affected by this issue according to the video?

The affected BMW models include F generation 2 series, 3 series, 4 series, M3, and M4.

What is the initial symptom of the problem when it starts?

The initial symptom is a grinding sound that occurs only under hard acceleration.

What happens if the issue is left unrepaired?

If left unrepaired, the grinding sound becomes constant as long as the car is in gear and rolling.

What is the actual cause of the noise as explained in the video?

The cause is a plastic clip that holds the parking brake cables to the underside of the car breaking off, allowing the cables to hang down and drag on the drive shaft.

What was the temporary fix provided by the dealership during the test drive?

The temporary fix was to use zip ties around the cables to hold them in place.

How much does the replacement part cost as mentioned in the video?

The replacement part costs around eight dollars, which can be purchased from fcpeuro.com.

What is the part number for the genuine BMW retainer clip?

The part number for the genuine BMW retainer clip is 34 40 6 854 898.

What steps are involved in replacing the faulty clip according to the video?

Steps include jacking up the car, removing the steel plate, lowering the exhaust, removing the heat shielding, and finally replacing the clip with a new one.

Why is it recommended not to perform the repair with a full fuel tank?

It is recommended not to perform the repair with a full fuel tank to avoid the risk of spilling fuel, which is both dangerous and can damage the car.

What is the overall sentiment of the video creator towards BMW's use of plastic parts?

The video creator expresses frustration with BMW's use of plastic parts instead of metal, suggesting it leads to such issues and questioning the decision-making in BMW's boardroom meetings.