Wheel Alignment, everything you need to know as a car owner.

C Deselle • December 20, 2024

The Importance of maintaining your car’s wheel alignment

It's important that wheels and tires are aligned. If they aren't, you could be damaging your tires and affecting the vehicle's handling characteristics.

Most people do not know the Importance of maintaining your car’s wheel alignment. First, alignments help to improve the handling of your car. Second, they help to improve fuel economy by ensuring that your car wheels are pointing in the same direction. Third, a properly alined vehicle helps to prolong the life of your tires by evenly distributing the weight of your car on all four tires. Fourth, alignments help to prevent premature wear on your suspension components.

At TMJ Bimmers, we are Houston’s local wheel alignment experts. We offer a variety of alignment services, and we are always happy to answer any questions you may have about the process.

How do I Know if my Tires are Misaligned?

Some of the key telltale signs that your car needs an alignment are …..

1. Your steering wheel isn’t centered

2. Your vehicle pulls to one side or the other

3. You notice abnormal tire wear in certain spots

4. The handling feels loose

5. The steering wheel doesn’t return to center

Why is wheel alignment important

Wheel alignments are important because they offer a variety of benefits. You will gain fuel mileage back. Houston is a high-mileage town. You can easily lose up to 3-4 miles per gallon with an improperly aligned vehicle.

You will also preserve the life of your tires. Improperly aligned vehicles will prematurely and improperly wear down the value of those high-performance tires. While we may have an advantage of not needing to invest in any Winter tires down in Houston, If you’ve spent the money investing in those high-dollar performance tires, why not make them last as long as possible?

Another important benefit to note is that when your tires are aligned, you will be able to fully enjoy the handling of your high-performance vehicle. As we all know, Houston has notoriously bad streets that wreak havoc on our beloved vehicles. If your suspension is out of alignment, it is likely affecting the vehicle's handling.

And, understand that while avoiding this necessary service for your high-performance vehicle definitely reduces your vehicle’s performance, you could also be damaging component parts of your car. If your vehicle becomes misaligned, the performance of your BMW will certainly be noticeably worse than it otherwise would be. You'll notice this mostly in the steering and the handling of the vehicle which will become difficult to manage. Driving straight will become more difficult, braking may prove to be unsafe or it may also feel like your brakes are skipping. Your fuel efficiency will reduce and your tires will wear down much faster than they ordinarily would. In the end, it will cost you more money in the long run if you put off getting an alignment.

Alignment Check vs Alignment Appointment: What can I Expect?

An alignment check is exactly what it sounds like. It is a way of checking the direction your tires are pointing. When your vehicle and the tires are correctly aligned, they'll turn in unison in response to your steering column and will help your vehicle handle more efficiently. And with TMJ Bimmer’s free alignment check service, our technicians will ensure your wheel’s alignment meets your manufacturer’s recommendation, plus we’ll inspect your tires, suspension and steering for any signs of unwanted wear. This process takes about 15 minutes and is complimentary at most local independent shops.

How Often Should I Check the Wheel Alignment?

While the manufacturer may suggest an alignment every 10,000 miles, you should always ask your local independent repair shop to perform a free quick check, or check your maintenance manual to determine best mileage or time interval for an alignment. At TMJ Bimmers, we recommend bringing your car in at least once per year for a free tire alignment checkup. We also check your alignment for free during our multi-point inspection process every time you visit for a service or repair.

However, your driving habits and road conditions can heavily influence how often you need to get your vehicle aligned. And, depending on where you live in Houston, a wheel alignment may be required on a more frequent basis. For example, if you notice your vehicle is pulling sharply in one direction, or if you are experiencing a steering wheel vibration or a crooked steering wheel then your wheel alignment might be off. These are definitely reasons to make an appointment to stop in for a complimentary quick check and we’ll let you know.

Does wheel Alignment impact Safety?

Short answer: yes. You can experience difficulty steering, possibly causing your steering wheel to jerk out of your hands or lean to one side. If you are struggling to keep your vehicle moving in a straight line or find yourself holding your wheel turned in one direction in order to move forward, it’s definitely a good time to realign your wheels. Even a minor steering issue can increase dramatically without warning. This is particularly common as you hit a sudden bump on these notoriously bad streets. Don't allow an unexpected Houston pothole to cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

And replacing tires because of a single bald spot or a single worn-out inner or outer line, is extremely frustrating but you can thank poor wheel alignment for that. Misaligned wheels cause uneven wear patterns that decrease the lifespan of your tires.

Finally, driving on misaligned wheels will cause suspension issues over time. A misaligned vehicle causes additional stress on one side of your suspension system, causing it to wear out more quickly than the other side. And wheel alignment is much cheaper than a new suspension system, trust us!

What are Wheel Alignment Angles?

There are three main wheel alignment angles, which determine how each wheel is positioned relative to the car, the ground and each other. These are camber, caster and toe. Camber and Toe angles refer directly to the wheel, while caster is a measurement of the suspension geometry.

When you get your tires aligned by a licensed technician, they are mainly checking three specific wheel alignment angles. The first of these is the camber. The camber is the inward and outward angle that can be viewed from the front of the vehicle. If there is too much inward or outward angling of the tire, this indicates that the alignment needs to be adjusted. Camber misalignment can be caused by wheel suspension issues as well as worn bearings or ball joints.

The next area our technicians will check for is toe alignment. Toe alignment can be recognized through inward or outward turning of the tires when viewed from above. The final check that your technician will do is evaluate the caster angle. Caster alignment helps steering, cornering, and stability, and this angle can be viewed from the side of your vehicle when looking at the steering axis. Too much tilt in either the direction of the driver or towards the front of the vehicle can be problematic.

How will raising or lowering my car affect my wheel alignment?

While you may be looking for improved handling or less air drag, or just the sleeker look of a lower vehicle, did you know that raising or lowering your vehicle will affect your wheel alignment? Lowering your suspension is what we are most often asked for as a BMW shop and it will most definitely affect your toe, camber or caster angles. This is because lowering your vehicle changes the geometry of your wheel-tire fitment and if it isn't done correctly, meaning if an alignment is not performed after this adjustment to your suspension, then it’s likely your vehicle’s alignment is out. Plus, while the following repairs aren't as “fun”, if a repair or replacement of your struts, shocks, ball joints, tie rods, bushings or control arms is being recommended to you by your local independent, it's likely that your vehicle's alignment is also out.

If you’ve just bought some fresh new rubber or are considering getting some soon, you are probably wondering whether you need to align your wheels after tire replacement. While this question is always up for debate between mechanics, most will say that an alignment is necessary after installing new tires. Our position is that even new tires need to be aligned. This helps you get the most life from your new tires. We all want our tires to last longer, and no one wants to run to the store every few months to replace tires. This will help you get the most life from your new tires. Whether you are replacing 2 tires, or 4 , a wheel alignment after the installation of new tires is a good rule of thumb to make sure those brand new tires you just bought last as long as they can.

Though both should be part of regular auto maintenance, the difference between balancing your tires versus getting an alignment is that a wheel alignment corrects the angles of the tires so they travel in the same direction and make contact with the road properly whereas balancing your tires makes sure that weight is evenly distributed around the entire circumference of the unit. The common symptoms of out-of-balance tires and misaligned vehicles are similar – uneven and faster tread wear, poor fuel economy, and vibration in the steering wheel so oftentimes tire balancing and alignment are perceived to be the same thing, but they are not. However they are similar in that tire balancing is essential for proper tire care for the same reason as wheel alignment: prevention of premature tread wear.

Having tires aligned and balanced every 5,000 to 6,000 miles can help maximize their lifespan and overall performance. When all areas of the wheel-tire unit are as equal in weight as possible, the tire will roll smoothly. This helps it wear evenly, for the longest life. Balancing also contributes to ride comfort: Imbalanced tires will wobble or hop up and down, which causes vibration. If a front tire isn’t properly balanced you’ll likely feel vibration in the steering wheel. If the problem is in the rear the tremor will be noticeable in the seat or floor. Imbalanced tires are easily corrected, but the work is precise. It’s done by attaching small weights, just fractions of ounces, to the wheel.

We have already discussed many things that necessitate getting an alignment but have you ever wondered what the most common causes of wheel misalignment are? Ever wondered if that terrible pothole you just hit or the massive bump in the road actually knocked your alignment out of whack? A good rule of thumb is, the larger the impact, the higher the potential you have of throwing your vehicle's alignment out. And, we always recommend an alignment check after any significant impact to your vehicle from an unexpected collision. Again, remember the key telltale signs mentioned above and ask yourself … is my steering wheel still centered? Is my car now pulling one way or another? Or, does the steering wheel now feel looser than before? If the answer is yes, don't ignore it. Schedule a free alignment check for peace of mind.

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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!