I guess we interpret replies differently.

Quote As I said, I work overseas. Diagnostic tools are great if you have the time or inclination to use them.

I don't see where I "lashed" at the OP from the phrase "I'm out". Seems like you have it in for me.

Still waiting for the movie that you think I should see.

:popcorn:

You may have two unrelated problems. BMWs are sensitive to voltage out of spec. I would load test the battery, especially since it sounds like your X is sitting for extended periods of time between charges. Good auto parts stores will do it free. Would also check alternator output while I am at it.

Sounds like the things you have done have helped. Consider that the parts replaced had deteriorated enough that they couldn't handle an undiscovered upstream root cause.

If I understand correctly, it is worse when engine is cold? The fuel mixture is richer when the engine is cold. That means to me the air/fuel mixture a good suspect.

I would do the following troubleshooting: Check air filter to verify it is in good condition. Check MAF by unplugging it and see if idle improves--MAF a part of determining air/fuel mixture. It doesn't sound like a lack of fuel pressure condition but it is easy to check--auto stores rent the rig. How long since the O2 pre cat sensors were replaced--another part that can cause rough idle, also have a tendency to be worst when engine is cold. Bad O2 sensor will also show as loss of power under hard acceleration.

The above should at least narrow it down.



it could be a fouled injector, a few tanks with a bottle of Texron in each should help that though it sounds like you have already done something similar.

Does your engine sound normal at idle and reving it up to 3000 or so rpms? Are you still hearing what sounds like spark knock? If it is a spark knock that could be cam sensors or Vanos. Regardless of your answer, I would start with the, logical to eliminate, easy stuff.

I am not out for your at all. You input is very often right on the mark and very helpful. A lot of the time I look forward to what you have to say. I have agreed with you several times.

You have every right to express your opinion in any way you want. My suggestion is that it doesn't have to be in a manner that can be interpreted---You are right, they are wrong if they won't do it your way they are at least a lost cause so you're going to take your ball and go home. If you don't think an OP is worth your time just ignore the thread front there on out. I don't feel it is in good taste or constructive to poke them in the eye before doing so.

I don't know your taste in movies but I suggest the message of the movie is don't take yourself so seriously. If I were closer and you wanted company I would go with you. I can always use a reminder to lighten up.

Mr. UAN

What part of the 'Time" and 'Distance' did you not grasp.

'Cheap fix'. Yes, clearly that's what I'm after.

Please do shuffle off. I'm sure there is a reality show desperately awaiting your audience.

BC-

Thanks for the thoughts- I've got to get to the office, but will reply re: 02 etc. later tonight.

Any thoughts on the electrical dance, i.e. the air bag lights?

Gracias.

BC

No codes were showing regarding 02s. The owner of the one shop in Kingston has an 06 4.8is with low Ks on it. We actually brought it into the shop and looked at the spare tire area to confirm that none of the wiring (POs previous stereo set-up).

Second shop is out of town and deals mostly with Euro kit, and he has a pretty solid rep with BMWCA club and is recommended by same. Being the summer, I was lucky to get in when I could and of course he was also on vacation for 10 days....He thought that it might be the VANOS (I was basically running to his shop whenever he had an open slot) but was not willing to commit. I suspect something electrical- Most of my experience is with 80s and 90s era Porsches and the run-down on poor running was usually a simple fix, even with my 84 928S- but the other system errors and the moisture.....Maybe just talkin' through my hat?

We have similar backgrounds as it relates to Porsches. There's a lot of positives of having minimal electronics.

A couple of bad VANOS symptoms--sometimes they will rattle, sounds like marbles in a can, especially when you let off the gas. Sometimes there will be a loss of low end power that returns in the upper RPMs. VANOS should be replaced periodically as preventative maintenance. There is risk the pin that holds the flap in place can fall out and damage the engine. If it is that bad you should hear the rattle.

BC

No untoward noises emitted from the engine bay, pretty tick-tock as far as I can tell.

Not sure of the relevance to this subject, but I did have the X5 coded by OK- All coding was pretty much run-of-the-mill stuff…DRL, doors, sunroof/windows etc. And the rough running was an issue prior to. But in the interest of clarity….

Interesting what UAN was saying about the injector shut-off. Is this a drive-by-wire system (accelerator)? The electrical architecture on these things makes me want to pull my hair out. Nothing like good old cost engineering. Maybe there is a bad injector lurking somewhere. Svenson Bros. (Kingston Shop) reported a less than nominal fuel pressure prior to changing out the fuel filter, but not wildly out of spec, and I really can’t remember if we got another reading after the install.

I keep coming back to electrical. The intermittent nature of the airbag, the sitting-overnight onset of the rough running, damp weather. Who would have believed a 928 would seem like a walk in the park.

Frank,

I'm not too keen on N62 engine troubleshooting as I only have a lowly I6 with a clutch, however, I think BC mentioned checking out the alternator? Did you unlock the OBC and run test 9 to see what kinda voltage you are getting when the car is running? Not sure if the airbag light, intermittent rough running would have something to do with it.

Is the battery verified good as well? Just 2 things to have checked which shouldn't take too much time as I know its tough for you.


As well, I want to say welcome back! Glad to hear your X is staying, and 3rd'ly, where did you score some comfort seats from? I'd love to get myself a set, even though I have sport package I don't have sport seats!