The Risks of a Cheap Oil Change

November 20, 2024

At TMJ Bimmers, we have seen first hand how the Risks of a Cheap Oil Change do not payout in the long-run. So when it comes to quickie oil changes at a discount price, you should be suspicious and ask “what’s the catch?”

For starters, these inexperienced entry-level technicians can inadvertently damage your vehicle. Next up, these service centers are installing cheap parts and using low-end fluids, which can and often does lead to serious engine issues. And finally, for customers looking to extend the timing between oil changes, or save time or money at quick drive-by oil change shops, understand that opting for the quick-fix on your high-performance vehicle can (and often does) end up costing you more in the long run. If that’s not enough to keep you away, read on to learn the nitty-gritty about why if you’re a Euro driver, you should avoid your local Speedy / Quick Stop Oil Change Shop.

What is a Speedy / Quick Stop Oil Change Shop?

Have you ever wondered what exactly a Speedy / Quick Stop Oil Change Shop? And, do they hire certified automotive technicians? While their uniforms may lead you to believe you are dealing with a professional automotive technician, in our experience, they often aren't. They typically employ new hires and require no prior automotive experience. We also find that they are incentivized to sell you services that you do not need and they may even try to cover up damage that they inflict on your vehicle. So, while these shops do serve a purpose, they are not for your high-performance vehicle. They may even turn down some oil changes if it will take them too long or if they are uncertain of how to do the service. At least, the savvy ones do… Makes sense that we regularly get vehicles towed in from these service centers who have gotten in over their heads claiming they could perform a service or repair that is WAY over their level of understanding. In short, unskilled labor endangers your car’s health.

What to lookout for when going to a Speedy / Quick Stop Oil Change Shop

Over the years, we’ve seen major engine issues develop due to oil services being performed improperly by inexperienced non-euro "lube" technicians in a rush to meet their quota. Now we know that a 5-minute drive-by oil change shop on your way to work may seem tempting, but improperly performed oil changes by unskilled laborers is another huge area of concern that most drivers don't think twice about. Unfortunately these guys are trained to focus on the speed of the service they are performing over the quality of the work.

For example, one of the most often seen issues on BMWs is the oil filter cap assembly plastic inserts being inadvertently discarded. This key part is responsible for feeding oil directly to your vital engine components. Then, the new filter goes back in without the integral plastic insert, and you the vehicle owner never notices a thing. That is… until the check engine light comes on. And how is an untrained employee with no prior automotive experience, expected to recognize this BMW specific part integral to feeding oil into your engine? This is a perfect example of why rushing through oil services can endanger your car’s health. And, on BMWs specifically, oftentimes these cheap filters will compress around the centerpiece making it harder for an inexperienced tech to notice that they just threw away a critical component part necessary for performing your next oil change correctly. This is a dangerous combination of inexperience, too much of a focus on quick and cheap oil changes over quality and expert oil services.

The next major concern you should be aware of is using low grade parts and fluids on your high-performance vehicle. While Quick Lube shops tend to use the cheapest available parts/fluids while charging a premium price, at TMJ Bimmers, we use only manufacturer-approved oil & OEM oil filters. Choosing quality lubricants can mean a difference between long-term ownership and a lifetime of expensive engine troubles. This is particularly true with German cars. BMW engines among others don’t really take well to low-end lubricants and BMW is very picky when it comes to which lubricants they endorse. Simply stated, Quality Oil keeps your car healthy and your choice of engine oils matters. Quality oil and quality oil filters keep your high-performance vehicle performing at its best.

Our next major area of concern is that these service centers are installing cheap non-OEM oil filters. Saving a few bucks on your engine’s oil filter may seem appealing in the short term, but they do a poor job filtering dirt, metal and other particulates out of the oil, and guess what happens? These fragments end up in your engine eating away at vital components. We also find these cheap filters are often compressed so tightly that they are significantly reducing oil pressure and causing long term damage to the engines. Cheap oil filters restrict oil pressure (due to poor design & low quality materials). Turbo engines rely heavily on good quality oil at high pressure. This is a dangerous combination of inexperience, too much of a focus on quick and cheap oil changes over quality and expert oil services. So, while it may be easier on your schedule to swing into a Jiffy Lube or a Kwik Kar Lube & Tune near you, faster and easier isn't always better… especially if you drive a Euro you’ll want to avoid having your engine suffer from the long term damage caused by inadequate lubrication from a cheap non-OEM oil filter.

So now I am sure you’re wondering if there are truly benefits to getting an oil change from a skilled technician. They absolutely are! Taking your high-performance vehicle to your local trusted independent automotive shop is always a good idea. Here’s why… First off, as an independent, you will know that your vehicle is being repaired or serviced by a singularly focused expert for your vehicle make and model of vehicle. Even if you are thinking, “it’s just an Oil change.” Remember this… your engine’s oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle's engine.

Why Choose TMJ Bimmers

Every visit to TMJ Bimmers and most other trusted independents will start with a thorough DVI (Digital Video Inspection) performed by the same technician who is performing your lube service. But at TMJ Bimmers, your service advisor will develop a customized treatment plan based on your current use and eventual plan for your vehicle. Next, prior to starting any work on your car, you'll receive detailed images and videos identifying any potential issues, color-coded by priority: Red (Needs attention now), Yellow (Will require attention soon), Green (In the clear, no action needed at this time). This allows our techs to recognize any potential problems before a minor issue evolves into a major repair or a safety concern. Planning to drive it until the wheels fall off? Want to sell it soon? We’ll work with you to ensure your vehicle’s service plan is aligned with your goals.

This allows our techs to ID any potential problems before a minor issue evolves into a major repair or a safety concern! And, it allows our customers to budget for their vehicle’s needs, in priority order. This level of knowledge is only gained through years of experience working on these vehicles and knowing the ins and outs of these Euro cars.

Everyone knows that when you specialize in just one thing, you tend to do it better than anyone else. With over 50 years of overall combined experience in BMWs, Porsche, Mini-Coopers and Mercedes, the technicians at TMJ Bimmers have been specializing in German Automotive Service and Repair and are true enthusiasts with a love for these vehicles. Finally, remember that servicing your oil regularly presents a great opportunity to keep your car running without issues.

Finally, if you are curious about how often you should get an oil change, then know this… if your dash light is on, you are WAY overdue for oil change. Your dash light is set by your vehicle’s manufacturer to come on every 10-15K miles between oil changes. And, while the dealerships may recommend you service your oil every 10,000-15,000 miles, remember that dealerships are more interested in selling you a new vehicle than they are in maintaining your used vehicle. At TMJ Bimmers, we love all the Bimmers, from the late models fresh out of warranty, to the classics. That’s why we strongly urge our customers to service their vehicles’ oil every 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes sooner (especially considering late-model turbo-charged engines are especially hard on oil). Your engine's oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle so changing your oil regularly ensures your vehicle runs smoothly and keeps it out of the shop.

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Understanding Porsche Warning Lights: What They Mean and What to Do

By C Deselle • March 28, 2025

As a proud Porsche owner, you know your car is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a masterpiece of engineering, performance, and luxury. However, like any high-performance vehicle, your Porsche is equipped with a variety of warning lights on the dashboard designed to keep you informed about its health. Understanding these lights is crucial for maintaining your Porsche in peak condition. This guide will walk you through the most common Porsche warning lights, explain what they mean, and provide guidance on the necessary actions to take when they appear. Why Warning Lights Matter Warning lights serve as your Porsche’s way of communicating potential issues, ranging from minor concerns to critical problems requiring immediate attention. These alerts can range from simple reminders, such as a low fuel warning, to serious issues like engine or braking system malfunctions. Ignoring these warnings can lead to costly repairs or even hazardous situations on the road. By understanding these indicators, you can take the appropriate actions to ensure your Porsche continues to run smoothly and efficiently. 1. Check Engine Light (CEL) What It Looks Like: A yellow or amber outline of an engine, sometimes with the word "CHECK." What It Means: This light indicates that the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system has detected an issue. The cause could range from something minor, like a loose gas cap, to more serious problems, such as engine misfires, faulty oxygen sensors, or catalytic converter issues. What to Do: If the light is steady, schedule a diagnostic check as soon as possible. If it's flashing, it indicates a severe issue that requires immediate attention—pull over and have your Porsche towed to a repair shop to prevent engine damage. 2. Battery Warning Light What It Looks Like: A red battery icon. What It Means: This indicates that your Porsche’s battery is not charging properly, which could be due to a failing alternator, a weak battery, or corroded connections. What to Do: Reduce electrical usage and drive to a service center immediately. If the battery is completely discharged, your Porsche may not restart. 3. Brake Warning Light What It Looks Like: A red circle with an exclamation point inside or the word "BRAKE." What It Means: This could indicate low brake fluid levels, worn brake pads, or an issue with the braking system. What to Do: Check if your parking brake is engaged. If the light remains on, have your brakes inspected immediately at TMJ Bimmers to ensure safety. 4. Oil Pressure Warning Light What It Looks Like: A red oil can symbol with a drip. What It Means: Low oil pressure, which may result from low oil levels, a failing oil pump, or an oil leak. What to Do: Pull over immediately and check the oil level. If adding oil doesn’t resolve the issue, have your Porsche towed to a service center to prevent engine damage. 5. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Warning Light What It Looks Like: A yellow or amber circle with the letters "ABS." What It Means: There is an issue with your Porsche’s anti-lock braking system, which helps maintain control during hard braking. What to Do: While regular brakes may still function, have the ABS system inspected as soon as possible to avoid compromised braking performance. 6. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light What It Looks Like: An exclamation point inside a horseshoe shape. What It Means: One or more tires are underinflated, which can impact handling and fuel efficiency. What to Do: Check tire pressure and inflate to the recommended levels. If the light persists, have the TPMS system checked. 7. Coolant Temperature Warning Light What It Looks Like: A red thermometer symbol. What It Means: Your Porsche's engine is overheating, possibly due to low coolant levels or radiator issues. What to Do: Pull over immediately, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool. Check coolant levels and top off if needed, but seek professional service if the problem persists. 8. Airbag Warning Light What It Looks Like: A person with an airbag in front. What It Means: There is a malfunction in the airbag system, which may prevent airbags from deploying properly in an accident. What to Do: Have the system inspected immediately to ensure safety. 9. Engine Temperature Warning Light What It Looks Like: A red thermometer submerged in liquid. What It Means: The engine is running hotter than normal, often due to low coolant, a failing water pump, or a faulty thermostat. What to Do: Pull over, allow the engine to cool, and check coolant levels. If the light stays on, have the vehicle towed to TMJ Bimmers to avoid potentially catastrophic engine damage. 10. Steering Wheel Warning Light What It Looks Like: A yellow or red steering wheel icon. What It Means: A problem with the power steering system, making steering more difficult. What to Do: Drive cautiously and schedule a service appointment. 11. Transmission Warning Light What It Looks Like: A gear with an exclamation point or the word "TRANS." What It Means: There is a problem with the transmission system, such as low fluid levels or mechanical failure. What to Do: Avoid hard accelerations and schedule a transmission inspection immediately. 12. Fuel Indicator Light What It Looks Like: A yellow gas pump icon. What It Means: Your fuel level is low, usually at 10-15% capacity. What to Do: Refuel as soon as possible to prevent running out and avoid damage to the fuel pump. Why Choose TMJ Porsche Specialists for Diagnostic Testing? While some warning lights may have simple solutions, others require expert diagnosis and repair. Porsches are complex, high-performance vehicles that demand specialized care. At TMJ Bimmers, we have the expertise and advanced equipment to accurately diagnose and repair any Porsche issues. Our team understands Porsche-specific systems, ensuring your vehicle receives the best possible care. Conclusion Understanding your Porsche’s warning lights is essential for keeping your vehicle in peak condition. By addressing these alerts promptly, you can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs. If you’re unsure about a warning light or need expert advice, contact TMJ Bimmers Euro Car Care at 713.384.2273. We’re here to ensure your Porsche remains a top-performing machine on the road.

What is a BMW M-Series

By C Deselle • March 14, 2025

BMW is a brand synonymous with performance, luxury, and driving pleasure. But for those who crave an extra level of speed, precision, and adrenaline, BMW’s M-Series—often called “M Cars”—stands at the pinnacle of automotive excellence. If you’ve ever wondered what makes an M Car different from a standard BMW, this article will dive into its history, origins, various models, and what sets these high-performance machines apart. The Origin of BMW M Cars BMW M, short for BMW Motorsport GmbH, was established in 1972 as the performance division of BMW. Originally, the M division was created to support BMW’s racing efforts, developing high-performance engines, chassis, and aerodynamics to compete in various motorsport events. The first major success of BMW M was in racing, particularly with the legendary BMW 3.0 CSL, a car that dominated the European Touring Car Championship in the 1970s. The success of BMW’s racing program led to the idea of bringing motorsport technology to road cars, and thus, the M Series was born. The First M Car: The BMW M1 (1978) The first-ever BMW M car was the BMW M1 , introduced in 1978. Designed as a mid-engine supercar, the M1 was built for homologation purposes—meaning BMW had to produce road-legal versions of the car to compete in motorsport events. It featured a 3.5L inline-six engine producing 273 horsepower, an impressive figure for its time. However, due to production difficulties, only 453 M1s were ever made, making it one of the rarest and most collectible BMWs today. Evolution of the M Series: A Look at the Key Models After the M1, BMW shifted its focus to high-performance versions of its standard production models. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic M cars throughout history. BMW M3 (E30, 1986-Present) The BMW M3 is arguably the most famous M car. It debuted in 1986 with the E30 generation as a homologation special for DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) racing. The E30 M3 featured a high-revving 2.3L four-cylinder engine and a lightweight chassis, making it one of the best-handling sports sedans of its time. Since then, the M3 has evolved through multiple generations, with each one bringing more power and advanced technology. Modern M3s feature turbocharged inline-six engines and optional all-wheel drive, but they retain the spirit of precision and performance that made the original legendary. BMW M5 (E28, 1984-Present) The M5 is the high-performance version of the BMW 5 Series and is known as one of the fastest sedans in the world. The first M5 (E28) arrived in 1984 with a 3.5L inline-six engine producing 282 horsepower, making it the fastest production sedan of its time. Over the years, the M5 has continued to push the limits of performance sedans. The E60 M5 (2005-2010) is particularly notable for its 5.0L V10 engine, which revved up to 8,250 RPM and produced an exhilarating exhaust note. Today’s M5 models use twin-turbocharged V8 engines, offering immense power while still providing everyday luxury and comfort. BMW M4 (F82, 2014-Present) Introduced in 2014, the M4 replaced the M3 Coupe as the high-performance two-door variant. It featured a 3.0L twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, producing over 400 horsepower. The latest G82 M4 offers even more power, aggressive styling, and an available all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and performance. Other Notable M Cars BMW M2 – A compact, high-performance coupe that delivers the raw driving pleasure of early M3 models. BMW M8 – A luxury grand tourer with supercar levels of power and performance. BMW X5M/X6M – High-performance SUVs that blend speed with practicality. What Makes an M Car Special? While a standard BMW is already a great driver’s car, M Cars take it to another level. Here’s what makes them superior: 1. More Powerful Engines M Cars receive specially tuned engines that deliver significantly more power and performance. These engines often feature lightweight components, advanced cooling systems, and higher redlines compared to their standard BMW counterparts. 2. Enhanced Suspension & Handling BMW M models come with sportier suspensions, upgraded brakes, and precise steering. Many models also offer adaptive dampers, allowing drivers to adjust ride stiffness for daily comfort or track-ready performance. 3. Aerodynamic & Lightweight Construction M Cars often feature aggressive bodywork, including larger air intakes, rear spoilers, and carbon fiber components to improve aerodynamics and reduce weight. 4. Unique M Features & Design From M-specific steering wheels and sport seats to customizable drive modes and exclusive badges, BMW M models are designed to offer a more engaging and immersive driving experience. 5. Track-Ready Performance Whether it’s on the highway or the race track, M Cars are built to handle extreme driving conditions. Many models include features like launch control, drift modes, and high-performance tires. Why Choose an M Car Over a Regular BMW? For some drivers, a regular BMW is enough—but for those who want more excitement, an M Car is the ultimate choice. M Cars are built with enthusiasts in mind, offering sharper handling, better acceleration, and an overall more engaging driving experience. However, owning an M Car also comes with additional considerations. These high-performance vehicles require more specialized maintenance, premium fuel, and sometimes higher insurance costs. But for those who love driving, the added costs are well worth it. Final Thoughts BMW’s M-Series cars represent the pinnacle of the brand’s engineering and motorsport heritage. Whether it’s the legendary M3, the high-speed M5, or the track-focused M4, each M Car offers an unparalleled blend of performance, luxury, and driving excitement. If you’re considering stepping into the world of M Cars, be prepared for a thrilling ride! At TMJ Bimmers, we specialize in servicing and maintaining BMW M models, ensuring that your high-performance machine runs at its peak. Whether you need routine maintenance, performance upgrades, or repairs, our expert technicians are here to help. Call us at 713.384.2273 or book your service now https://sgenie.io/lreaa to keep your M Car in top shape!

Top 3 causes of BMW Oil leaks

By C Deselle • February 12, 2025

Oil leaks are one of the most common issues BMW owners encounter. While these leaks might seem like minor inconveniences, ignoring them can lead to costly repairs and potentially serious damage to your engine. At TMJ Bimmers, we’ve seen and repaired countless BMW oil leaks, and three culprits consistently top the list: valve cover leaks, oil filter housing gasket leaks, and oil pan gasket leaks. Let’s break down these issues, their causes, and how they can be resolved. 1. Valve Cover Gasket Leak What It Is: The valve cover sits on top of your BMW’s engine and seals the valve train. Over time, the gasket that seals the valve cover becomes brittle and starts to leak. This is particularly common in models like the BMW 3 Series, 5 Series, and X Series vehicles, especially those with higher mileage. Signs of a Problem: A burning oil smell due to oil dripping onto the exhaust manifold. Visible oil leaks around the top of the engine. Check engine light (CEL) due to misfires caused by oil seeping into the spark plug wells. Engine running rough or noticeable performance issues. Causes: High engine temperatures causing gasket material to degrade. Normal wear and tear due to age and usage. Improper installation or over-tightening during previous repairs. Waiting too long between oil changes; Extended oil change intervals leading to sludge buildup, which accelerates wear. Potential Consequences : If left unchecked, a valve cover gasket leak can lead to more severe problems, such as damaged ignition coils or fouled spark plugs. This can result in misfires, reduced fuel efficiency, and costly repairs. How We Fix It : At TMJ Bimmers, we replace the valve cover gasket with a high-quality OEM or aftermarket part, ensuring proper torque specifications to prevent future leaks. We also inspect the valve cover itself for cracks, which can occur on older models. After the repair, we thoroughly clean the area to remove any residual oil. 2. Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak What It Is : The oil filter housing gasket seals the connection between the oil filter housing and the engine block. Over time, this gasket can deteriorate, leading to leaks. This issue is particularly common in turbocharged BMW engines, such as the N54 and N55. Signs of a Problem: Oil pooling near the front of the engine. Unexplained decreased oil levels between oil changes. Visible oil stains on the engine or driveway. Unusual engine noises caused by low oil pressure. Causes : Exposure to heat and pressure, which breaks down gasket material over time. Age-related wear, especially in vehicles with over 60,000 miles. Poor-quality replacement gaskets from previous repairs. Waiting too long between oil changes; Delayed oil changes causing sludge buildup around the gasket. Potential Consequences: Ignoring an oil filter housing gasket leak can cause engine components to wear prematurely. It can also lead to low oil pressure, which in extreme cases, can result in engine failure. How We Fix It: We’ll replace the failing gasket and thoroughly clean the area to ensure no residual oil remains. During the repair, we’ll inspect nearby components like the oil cooler gasket, as it’s often affected in tandem. Additionally, we check for oil contamination in the cooling system, which can occur if the issue is left unresolved for too long. 3. Oil Pan Gasket Leak What It Is: The oil pan gasket seals the oil pan to the bottom of the engine. This gasket can fail, especially in older or high-mileage BMWs. Vehicles that experience frequent stop-and-go driving or those exposed to harsh road conditions are particularly susceptible. Signs of a Problem: Oil spots on your garage floor or driveway. Visible oil dripping from the underside of the car. Low oil level warning on the dashboard. Increased oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs. Causes: Damage from road debris or impacts causing stress on the oil pan. Long-term wear and exposure to heat, which weakens gasket material. Over-tightened bolts leading to gasket compression and failure. Improper installation during previous repairs. Potential Consequences : An untreated oil pan gasket leak can lead to low oil levels, causing inadequate lubrication of engine components. Over time, this can result in excessive wear, overheating, and potentially catastrophic engine damage. How We Fix It: Replacing an oil pan gasket involves removing the oil pan, cleaning the mating surfaces, and installing a new gasket. This process requires precision and care, as improper installation can lead to further leaks. While the oil pan is off, we inspect for sludge or debris to ensure the engine stays in optimal condition. We also replace the engine oil and filter as part of the service. Why Do BMWs Experience Oil Leaks? BMWs are known for their precision engineering and high-performance engines. However, these characteristics also make them more prone to oil leaks due to: Higher operating temperatures compared to many other vehicles. The use of synthetic oil, which can expose weaknesses in gaskets over time. Complex engine designs with multiple gaskets and seals. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to keeping your BMW in peak condition. Why Choose TMJ Bimmers for Your BMW Repairs? Oil leaks are more than just a nuisance—they can compromise your engine’s performance and longevity. At TMJ Bimmers, we specialize in BMW maintenance and repairs, offering: Expertise : Our team is trained to diagnose and repair common BMW issues efficiently. High-Quality Parts : We use OEM and premium aftermarket parts to ensure durability and reliability. Transparent Communication : We’ll walk you through the repair process and provide clear, upfront pricing. Comprehensive Inspections : Every repair includes a thorough inspection to identify and address potential issues before they escalate. If you suspect your BMW has an oil leak, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact us today at 713.384.2273 or visit tmjbimmers.com to book your appointment at our Houston shop to have your vehicle inspected. Let’s keep your BMW running smoothly and leak-free for miles to come!