I bought my e86 around a month ago. It had just under 100k miles and turns out it was neglected for some time so there is quiet a bit that needs to be done. So far I've done:
- service - oil millers 5W40 and mahle filter, air and cabin filters (OEM)
- replaced spark plugs
- replaced solenoid valves
- replaced wishbones and drop links
- polished headlights - they were really really bad, now they look like new
- full alignment
I'm proud to say that all of that I've done myself (except for alignment of course). Less proud to admit that when mechanic checked it out, he told me to never touch tools again - nothing was tightened enough and I barely made it to the garage. Lesson learned and I'm absolutely going to try to fix things again.
Engine now runs really smooth, no more rev bouncing on idle and no more check engine light.
What still needs doing:
- something is wrong with steering angle sensor, 3 dashboard lights are on and no stability and traction control - already spun it once. It's booked for next week
- dual mass flywheel is knocking
- diff is also knocking. When it needs replacing, I'm planning to get LSD
- a lot of cosmetic issues - wheels desperately need refurbishing, hood has stone chips, all badges need replacing
I enjoy the hell out of it, take it for a drive any time I can. It's amazing how exciting driving it is, even staying roughly within the speed limit.
- service - oil millers 5W40 and mahle filter, air and cabin filters (OEM)
- replaced spark plugs
- replaced solenoid valves
- replaced wishbones and drop links
- polished headlights - they were really really bad, now they look like new
- full alignment
I'm proud to say that all of that I've done myself (except for alignment of course). Less proud to admit that when mechanic checked it out, he told me to never touch tools again - nothing was tightened enough and I barely made it to the garage. Lesson learned and I'm absolutely going to try to fix things again.
Engine now runs really smooth, no more rev bouncing on idle and no more check engine light.
What still needs doing:
- something is wrong with steering angle sensor, 3 dashboard lights are on and no stability and traction control - already spun it once. It's booked for next week
- dual mass flywheel is knocking
- diff is also knocking. When it needs replacing, I'm planning to get LSD
- a lot of cosmetic issues - wheels desperately need refurbishing, hood has stone chips, all badges need replacing
I enjoy the hell out of it, take it for a drive any time I can. It's amazing how exciting driving it is, even staying roughly within the speed limit.