Blog - Motorwerkes

Listen to Your MINI: Knowing When It’s Time for Service

23 July 2017

Differences in maintenance scheduling between models are bound to arise, whether they’re big ones or subtle ones. Thankfully, many modern vehicles are good at telling their drivers what they need and when. Let’s take a look at MINI’s condition-based maintenance system.

How Does It All Work?

In last week’s blog you learned a bit about how pre-CBS BMWs are distinguished from more recent models, as well as how this contributes to differences in maintenance requirements. A similar dynamic exists with MINIs. While all models will come with a certain recommended factory maintenance schedule (which varies based on which MINI you have), newer ones also boast a sophisticated CBS system that will give you detailed information on what aspects of your MINI need service. It analyzes wear on components, factors in your mileage, and streamlines servicing for your local technician.

Indication Examples

As a basic example any MINI that is equipped with a CBS system will tell you when you are in need of oil service, or when your brake fluid needs to be replaced. Sensors near the front and rear axles also collect data on the wear that has accumulated on your front and rear brake pads. It can even evaluate more comprehensive factors so that you can determine when a full vehicle inspection is necessary. All these and more are carefully monitored by the system to make things easier for you so that you can be as diligent about maintenance as possible.

Following the Schedule

It’s important to bear in mind that factory scheduled maintenance and condition-based service are not the same and don’t address all the same aspects of your MINI. This means that it’s key to stay on top of both. It also means that, considering the differences that exist between models, it’s as important as ever to know your individual vehicle as well as you can and understand its needs. Even better, team up with a MINI specialist who knows your vehicle even better than you do! If you can get a good handle on the CBS indications and stay on top of scheduled maintenance, your MINI will always be in great shape.

BMWs may be the pride and joy of the Motorwerkes team, but the services we offer on MINIs carry the same signature mark of excellence we’re known for. From repairs and maintenance to upgrades and detailing, call (403) 768-3161 to find out what we can do for your MINI today!

Inspection 2 Service for Your Pre-CBS BMW

16 July 2017

BMW has a long history of producing excellent vehicles. Maintenance practices can often differ depending on whether you own a sophisticated modern model or a prized classic. If you’re in the latter category, it’s wise to bear in mind the importance of BMW’s Inspection 2 service.

What Does “Pre-CBS” Mean?

When the 2002 7 Series was released in 2002, BMW introduced the Condition-Based Service system. This was a sophisticated new way of monitoring the condition of your model and knowing which services were needed at what time. Prior to the introduction of this feature was the service interval indicator system. While CBS isn’t a part of every BMW’s feature set, it is standard on all E60, E65, E90, and E70 models. BMWs manufactured before 2002, however, are considered to be pre-CBS. This means that their needs and scheduling requirements in terms of maintenance and repairs are a bit different from newer models.

Understanding Inspection 2

While Inspection 1 service satisfies a pretty thorough set of maintenance requirements for recent BMW models, one of the most important considerations for pre-CBS vehicles is Inspection 2 service. It provides you not only with what is included in Inspection 1, but with the addition of services that can make a big difference for the longevity of an older model. These include replacement of spark plugs and air filters, inspection of the body of your vehicle for rust, and more. It’s an excellent way to revitalize your pre-CBS BMW so that you can enjoy it for as long as possible.

Seeking Out the Best Service

For one thing, Inspection 2 should be performed every four years or every 100,000 kms, whichever comes first. You should also bear in mind that while the processes included in Inspection 2 are standardized, the value and quality of your service will vary depending on where you go. Dealer prices can be a bit intimidating, so taking your classic BMW to an independent specialist will give you high-quality results at the best possible value. Your BMW, no matter how old it is, is an investment worth caring for!

There’s nothing quite like driving a classic BMW whose exterior, interior, and mechanical functions are all in top working order. The Motorwerkes team is fully dedicated to caring for BMWs both new and old, so call us at (403) 768-3161 or an excellent Inspection 2 experience!

Considering a Remote Car Starter?

8 July 2017

Today’s automotive industry is full of simple but effective technologies that can offer solutions to common inconveniences and make a driver’s life much easier. Remote car starters are a perfect example. Let’s take a look at a few reasons why you might consider having one installed.

Summer Heat

Now that summer is in full swing, you’re probably experiencing what all drivers experience when getting into their car after parking outside on a hot day. The inside feels like an oven, the upholstery feels like you’ve had the seat warmers on full blast, and you’re avoiding the searing hot metal of that seat belt buckle at all costs. This is one of the main reasons why some drivers opt to have a remote car starter installed. It allows them to start their car from a distance so that the A/C can run for a bit and cool down the interior before you have to get in. Sounds nice, doesn’t it?

Winter Cold

Getting into your car at the height of winter can be an equally unpleasant experience. It can take what seems like an eternity for your BMW to warm up and get the head going to a tolerable level. The main difference between this and the summer heat is that it’s not significantly alleviated if you’ve parked indoors or in your garage at home.With the right remote car starter package, you’ll have enough control from a distance that you can let your BMW warm up while you finish that morning routine so that it won’t feel like a meat freezer when you finally get inside.

A Few Tips

When choosing a remote car starter package, it’s of the utmost importance to have it professionally installed. It is definitely not a DIY project and the last thing you want to do is void your warranty. Taking your BMW or MINI to the right specialists gets you an accurate assessment of your particular vehicle and its requirements so that a high-quality installation is ensured. Choose a starter with substantial range and high-quality components. You could even consider one that includes a security system or keyless entry for maximum protection and convenience!

In addition to all our other excellent services and upgrades, the Motorwerkes team now offers remote car starter packages for all E90 BMWs from 2006 and up, as well as for select MINI models. Give us a call at (403) 768-3161 to find out which package is right for your vehicle!

Protecting Your BMW Against Dents, Dings, and Scratches

1 July 2017

Beauty may be on the inside (and for a BMW this is certainly true), but a big part of enjoying your vehicle is knowing that it looks great. Sooner or later you’ll encounter damage of one kind or another, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of ways to avoid it as much as possible!

Strategic Parking

One of the most likely ways your BMW will sustain exterior damage is when parked among other vehicles. This might occur when a driver next to you opens their door and dents or scratches yours. When it comes to street parking or exterior lots, nearly anything can happen. This is why being strategic about your parking can make a big difference in reducing the likelihood of damage. Park inside whenever you can and take advantage of corner spots that give you a little distance between your vehicle and others. If you’re going to the grocery store, park on a far end of the lot to avoid runaway carts.

Smart Waxing and Washing

Another source of damage comes from poor detailing technique. We know that failing to regularly wash your vehicle can lead to buildup of harmful and corrosive materials like bird droppings, but you can also end up with scratches if you don’t wash the surfaces properly. Use appropriate materials like microfibre and rinse the exterior frequently while you wash, otherwise you could end up grinding abrasive residue like grit into your topcoat. Always make sure your exterior is dry before waxing, and if you feel any grainy material left over after washing, wash it again! Otherwise, your wax coat will just adhere these things to the surface.

Responsible Maintenance

Whether it’s a scratch, a chip, or a dent, avoiding damage to your BMW is also a matter of addressing the small stuff before it gets worse. Many forms of damage lead to others when not taken care of. Responsible maintenance also goes hand-in-hand with responsible detailing. If you don’t have time to carefully and thoroughly clean your BMW and take care of the exterior on your own, a professional detailing is the best way to get the job done without worrying about making anything worse. Be mindful of your driving and your car care while also seeking a hand from a qualified BMW specialist!

Does your BMW look as good as you’d like it to? Whether it’s due to sudden damage, weather-related wear, or other factors, the best way to revitalize the appearance of your vehicle is to seek out the right technicians. Call Motorwerkes at (403) 768-3161 to meet with ours!

Understanding and Maintaining Your Wheels

19 June 2017

Here on the Motorwerkes blog, we’ve spoken about your tires a number of times, whether in the context of seasonal changes or general maintenance. However, don’t forget that the wheels that they are installed on are very much their own part that dictate their own maintenance needs!

Wheel 101

A wheel is made up of a few key structural components. The spokes, plate, dish, bolt circle, and centre bore comprise a wheel rim. It is the primary element that is encompassed by and supports the tire. How you select your rims comes down to a combination of the requirements of your car and your personal taste, as a wide variety of types are available. Meanwhile, at the core of a wheel is its hub, which serves the critical function of integrating the wheel with the axle and the parts necessary to make braking possible. A safe, smooth drive relies heavily on the cleanliness and integrity of both your rims and hubs.

Knowing the Types

One major wheel type is the steel wheel, which, due to its weight and the nature of its manufacturing process, is not as universal as it used to be. Steel wheels possess a resilience to damage that might make them favourable if you need a heavy-duty set of winter tires to fall back on, but they lack the kind of maneuverability that lighter materials provide. Alloy rims, on the other hand, are more standard fare for the performance vehicle driver. Often made of an alloy of aluminum, magnesium, or both, their lower unsprung mass and flexible manufacturing methods allow for swift movement and acceleration as well as stylistic variety.

Cleaning and Upkeep

Regardless of the material, manufacturing approach, or level of complexity your wheels, routine care is essential for a good look and reliable function. Keep an eye on buildup that can accumulate on your rims, from dirt to tar and bugs. Wash them frequently with quality, dedicated BMW cleaning products. If your wheels are alloy, avoid cleaning with abrasive materials and be sure to take care of their finish, even waxing if necessary. Keep an eye out for brake dust, and when washing it away, wait for your wheels to cool before rinsing them and using an appropriate wheel cleaner. As with any part, proper wheel care means more value from your purchase!

There’s no part of your BMW that should go forgotten. Attention to detail is essential to providing a long life for your car, and few understand this better than a BMW specialist. From repairs and upgrades to maintenance, call (403) 768-3169 to connect with our team!