Own servicing and repairs...

L

Lee Young

Member
Hi Folks,
My (new to me) zed is my retirement pressy to myself, bought with the intention of doing all my own servicing and do-able repairs. I used to do all this stuff years ago when cars were easy to work on. I'd appreciate suggestions on essential tools and such like in order to do my own stuff. I've noticed that springs and bushes seem to be weak spots - are they do-able on the floor. Finally, how many owners simply ignore suggested servicing intervals and change oils and filters more or less frequently? Mobile 1 is mega expensive in Spain.

Thanks.

Oh yes, forgot, can the quick fit type garages do the tracking and stuff on Zeds or does it have to be a specialist?
 
The Wishbones and bushes can be done with a jack and stands, but will naturally be more awkward than doing on a ramp.

As for the alignment, a Hunter machine is best, provided the operators know what they are doing, and weight the vehicle correctly. I'd look for a specialist IIWU, and drive in the knowledge that it has been carried out correctly.

I can appreciate the argument for changing the oil and filter more regularly, but doing so less frequently is inexcusable, regardless of the cost of oil. I wouldn't recommend Mobil 1 anyway, it breaks down too much under prolonged heat, resulting in poorer lubrication and therefore more likely to pass the piston rings.
 
Cheers TheHoff,
I'm pleased to that these jobs, at least, can been at home. Re the oil and filter changes... I was thinking of doing mine every 12 months regardless of the on-board indicator. Had oil technology improved so much that potentially you can go 24 months or so? I'm not convinced. Unfortunately I've already bought the oil re Amazon at a good price, so will have to use this time around. Any suggestions for next time. Also, any info on jobs NOT to tackle.

Cheers,
Lee
 
From my limited experience with the Z, around 18 months, without the correct diagnostic equipment a lot problems I've encountered could not have been fixed.
Even relative simple things like renewing brake pads required our indie specialist to resort to the lap top to resolve a sensor issue. Warning lights appearing is another story. Best of luck to you though, I too, used to maintain the cars a few years ago but sadly no longer.
 
There is a wealth of knowledge on this site and on the internet. (see some of the how too's section for example)
Basically, some one, somewhere will have done the job (maintenance wise) or had a similar problem that they have problem solved and fixed. Many people have taken the time to capture the information or post a "you-tube" video. Cars are still pretty easy to work on and all the same principals still apply.
Bearing in mind the Z shares many BMW E46 parts and therefore faults, there is a lot of internet info and most parts are available reasonably cheap.
Basic Diagnostic readers C110 for example can be purchased for < 40 quid and will pinpoint 80% of sensor type faults.
If your reasonably competent have a fair range of modern tools most things can be handled by the amateur, if that's what you fancy doing.

When you have to, always use trained mechanics and specialists not "Kwicker fitter" type establishments. My opinion only.
Good luck with the ownership and happy retirement :thumbsup:
 
Thanks Amigos,
I have indeed invested in a unit thingy for identifying faults along with lots of parts ready for bringing with me to Spain. Didn't realise things like discs needed programming! Mmmm...looks like I have a steep learning curve ahead of me. However, as has been said, the good people on this site have a wealth of knowledge and experience, so fingers crossed. I also intend to share my experience of attempting stuff - as and when.

I'm still intrigued to know what engine oil folk use and reason for doing so, if poss. I thought I was doing the right thing with mobil 1. Any other opinions/suggestions? Obviously, given that my new toy is still in the UK, I haven't had chance to do to anything to it yet (and it's driving me loco). Probably just as well though as this time is proving very helpful in allowing me to post and read posts on the site. What a great wealth of info!

Thanks, once again.
 
Hi Lee

I've had my 2.5 for four years and do most servicing myself. Have done 3 oil and filter changes using Castrol Magnatec C3 5/30, without any issues. Very simple job to do.

Pads and discs have done myself, all pretty basic stuff, but needs a good fitting 16mm ring spanner and a lot of leverage to shift the caliper carrier. Pagid discs and pads from ECP.

Pollen filter change is very easy, 10 mins max.

CDV removal is pretty easy, access is a pain!

Braking system bled, very straight forward, but tedious and a helper required for pedal pushing.

DISA change is very easy, 15 mins max.

Plugs, very easy.

Cheers
 
I do all my own servicing and repairers. There is nothing on the zed that is too specialist. I would recommend finding a good Indy as well but most jobs you should be ok. This forum has lots of guides and members happy to help of they can.

I have just done all the bushes and control arms. A ball joint splitter would be handy for the front control arms. And a bmw bush removal set would help you out as well. But normal sockets spanners and garage tools have done me so far. I had to buy a torx socket set to replace my diff.

Mat
 
How do I get the coils off when trying to change the spark plugs? Looks like they've never been changed, I've flipped the top back and removed the electrical connector but the coil wont shift. Do I just get a flathead screwdriver and use a bit of gbh to prise them out? Thanks.
 
I've done all my own repairs with the help of my dad. It's all pretty basic stuff.

Servicing, I just take it to a specialist just to keep the service history up to date. Inspections are all a load of crap really.
 
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