Most warranties only "fully" cover internally lubricated parts (engine/transmission), etc. If you have one that is a true bumper to bumpter definitely check:
- Intake manifold gasket for leaks
- DK Throttle motors for function/wear
- Exhaust (mufflers rust starting at drain pinhole)
- Engine and transmission mounts
- Driveshaft/drivetrain for any vibrations
- air conditioner compressor (mine went out and that repair alone made the whole insurance policy worthwhile)
- heater function (all vents blowing correctly with NO coolant smell)
Those are the major areas I can think of that usually start deteriorating @ the 50-65K range.
Jim S.
'92 Laguna Green 850i 6spd 154K
8-Series Maintenance in General
The 8-Series is solidly engineered and built, yet as with anything mechanical does suffer from a few minor flaws. The two primary faults are the drive-by-wire "DK throttle bodies" and intake manifold gaskets, which both usually require replacement at about 70k miles or more. Early automatic transmissions can be fault-prone, but no more than any other automatic receiving 326 pounds of torque. Otherwise, there are small issues such as the on-board computer display pixels becoming inactive, twisted seats from slipping control mechanism cables, coin tray breakage, and torn window seal gaskets. In the end, these are easily dealt with.
The engine, suspension, and drive train are very robust. The engine should easily last to 200k miles without rebuild. One caution being the 840's Nickasil engine block that BMW has been replacing under warranty due to sulfur-related cylinder bore wear. The 850's V12 uses a different Alusil block that does not share the same wear problems.
Owners and potential purchasers will likely encounter "tales" of reliability issues. The 8-Series has at times suffer from a unique reputation among some mechanics as overly complex and often problematic. While true that the car is complex, it is extremely well engineered and built. The issue seems to be that few mechanics have experience with them due to their limited production numbers. It is not uncommon to find mechanics chasing electrical faults by replacing wires and/or control units simply because a battery is low in charge and generating random fault codes. Needless to say, the mechanic blames the car not his own ineptitude.
Another 8-Series maintenance issue is that past owners often failed to properly maintain the cars due to expense or otherwise. IF maintained accordingly (regular Inspection I and II services) by a competent 8-Series mechanic they are not troublesome. The IF, however is, as represented, a large assumption. While the cars began life as $80-$100k automobiles, the neglect of multiple owners can leave a snakes nest of repairs for the unknowing buyer. As the final recipients of bargain-basement priced 8's will attest, car's with neglected maintenance can quickly become money pits. By whom and how an 8-Series has been maintained is essential to its future reliability. Purchasing one without all service book stamps in place and complete maintenance receipts confirming repairs may seem like a bargain, but resultant repair costs can be staggering.
As with most BMW models and other cars that last 200-300k miles or more, the 8-Series also has a "mid-life crisis" of sorts that when combined with a previous owner's neglect can drain any wallet. At about 75-80k miles, major wear items can and often do expire as a group . Brake rotors, DK throttle bodies, mufflers, wheel bearings, shock absorbers, control arms, and batteries, hoses, etc. all require replacement at around this time. If performed by your local BMW dealer, this series of replacements will quickly approach or exceed $6,000 for parts and labor. A qualified independent shop can perform the work for almost half the cost. What should be stressed is that when purchasing an example with over 75k miles, look for records of parts replacemetn or factor them into the future ownership costs. A properly maintained car with all of these items replaced by a competent shop is obviously going to have a higher asking price.
Comparably, variations in models with the exception of the engines used in the 840 versus 850 are few. Variations between model years are for the most part cosmetic in naturere, such as softer leather, chrome handles, etc.. The V12 850 is of course the more expensive car to maintain due to its dual system nature for gas, ignition, etc., and the V8 840 is the least intensive. Later 850 Ci's starting in 1993 did include revisions for the DK throttle failure issues, a more robust automatic transmission (5 speed), and an increase in displacement from 5.0 liters to 5.4 liters. However, if interested in a 6 speed, only the 1991-1993 850i is available (although rare) or the CSi. The only other downside of the 850Ci versions is that to date they cannot be modified with chips as the 850i's can, thus the chipped 850i's 340hp vs. the unchipped 850Ci's stock 326hp.
Most long-term owners seem to agree that a well maintained 8-Series will cost $2,500-$3.000 per year to maintain using a competent shop charging about $75 per hour. A dealer's parts costs and hourly rates are likely to almost double this figure. Exceptions are those with the time, knowledge, tools and skill to tackle repairs and maintenance themselves. While possible, the engine compartment is very tight making simple parts changes difficult at times. While items like DK throttle bodies are easily dealt with, intake manifold gaskets are 10 hour projects with many many small parts and assembly nuances. It can be done, but the challenge is best left to professionals.
Parts costs can be as expensive or even more than those for BMW Motorsport cars. For example, the simple rubber weather stripping that ensures proper window seals at the upper edges list for $225 each (part nos. 51 71 1 970 502, left; and 501 right). These tend to tear where the top front edge of the rear windows meet the gasket first. Needless to say, at almost $600 including tax and installation they are solidly in Ferrari-like cost territory. It was after all, an $80k car.
In the end, diligent maintenance is a requisite for 8-Series owners. If performed regularly by qualified technicians the cars are very reliable yet do require a significant budget for regular upkeep. Operating costs and issues are comparable to Motorsport edition BMWs such as the M5. For a V12/V8 car of similar performance, the e31 is an exceptional bargain with outstanding reliability.
Greg K
Grabbed from www.BMWE31.com
Finally for Recalls, bulletins and Updates for the E31 here is a Quick Checklist
All very true From Rudy at Rudy.ClubE31.net
check sunroof alignment
check hood alignment
check horn lights - do they flash
check horns - both working and secure
check ribbon lights - any fogging
check to see if any chipping on rear of hood by wiper arms
check plastic grills by ribbon lights - they come loose frequently
check temp wheel lights - working?
check all radio backlights - working?
Check all switch backlights - working?
check A/M switch - backlight working?
check pixels in OBC
check all fluids
check service lights - number left green?
check center stop light - working? - fogged?
check seat travel - no tilt or binding
check all windows work - auto down and up working
check toolkit - all there?
check first aid kit - all there?
check glovebox flashlight - there? - working?
check cruise control
check front dam - tight?
touch up paint available?
check rear window defroster - confirm it's working
all black screw plugs for fan shroud there?
is phone manual avail??
check both window seals - tend to go at front/rear joint
check for spare fuses
have DK motors been done?
check steering - if loose, may require lower control arms/bushings
check both batteries - if one soft then both will need to be replaced
check jack point rubbers - there and whole?
intake manifold gaskets ok?
Or going to the Extreme, Check these Safety Recalls gathered by Rudy
TSB Number Issue Date TSB Title
320296 AUG 96 Recall Campaign 96V-110
000194 JAN 00 Service Action/Recall Campaign Codes Index General Recalls
TSB Number Issue Date TSB Title
000194 JAN 00 Service Action/Recall Campaign Codes Index
Service Bulletins
TSB Number Issue Date TSB Title
040899 JUN99 New SAC Clamping Fixture
070296 JUN 99 Updated DIS Software CD 18.0
001098 MAY 99 Electrical Trouble Shooting Manuals Available on CD-ROM
040699 MAR 99 Electrical Connector Kit 4 Supplement
230399 MAR 99 Exchange Manual Transmission - Oil Specification
040199 MAR 99 Windshield Replacement Tools
230199 FEB 99 Manual Transmission Difficult to Shift - Diagnostic Tips
160498 JAN 99 Fuel Level Sensor Gives False Resistance Reading
320199 JAN 99 Ignition Lock Spins Freely
240198 JAN 99 Transmission Fluid Level Checking Procedure & App. Chart
240398 DEC 98 Technical Liaison for GM Transmission
510998 OCT 98 New Glass Adhesive Kit
170198 OCT 98 Radiator Cap Recall - No. 98V-178
080398 AUG 98 MODIC III/CD 14 - Questions and Answers
080198 JUL 98 MODIC III
070296 JUL 98 Updated DIS Software CD 14.0
340298 APR 98 ABS/ASC Warning Lights On During Dynamometer Test
651896 MAR 98 CD Changer Malfunctions - Skips on Rough Road Surface
040298 MAR 98 Connectors for Electrical Repair Kit IV
070198 MAR 98 DIS Schematic Information
1000197 JAN 98 New Service information Construction Group - 100
080596 JAN 98 Updated MODIC Diagnostic Software - D12.0
080396 JAN 98 Updated MODIC Software - ZCS Coding
841397 DEC 97 Replacement Parts - Motorola Mobile Phones
041597 NOV 97 New BMW Special Tools.
041697 NOV 97 New BMW Special Tools..
240497 NOV 97 Transmission does not Upshift when Cold
080396 OCT 97 Updated MODIC Software C11.0 ZCS Coding
080496 OCT 97 Updated MODIC Software P11.0 Programming
001396 AUG 97 Microfiche Update - All Models
640993 AUG 97 Replacement of Receiver Dryers: R12 / R-134a
100396 AUG 97 TIS Software Update - 07/97
100396 JUN 97 Update - TIS Software
000897 MAY 97 Label for Service Action or Recall Campaign (#201-220)
010397 APR 97 Modified Vehicles
0109954318 APR 97 Reimbursement for Diagnostic Work
070296 FEB 97 Updated DIS Software CD 9.0
080396 FEB 97 Updated MODIC Software C9.0 ZCS Coding
080496 FEB 97 Updated MODIC Software P9.0 Programming
100396 FEB 97 Updated TIS Software - 12/96
610788 DEC 96 Battery Maintenance
0101943986 DEC 96 Paint and Paint Repairs - Warranty Coverage
004089 NOV 96 Microfiche - Service Information Bulletins - Sept 30, 96
002096 NOV 96 Service Round Table - November 96
410396 NOV 96 Wind Noise Diagnosis
010396 OCT 96 Service and Warranty Information Statement - 1997
010696 OCT 96 Certified Pre-Owned BMW Vehicle Program
002196 OCT 96 Label for Service Action or Recall Campaign (#181-#200)
070296 OCT 96 Updated DIS Software CD 8.0
080496 OCT 96 Updated MODIC Software P8.0 Programming
010290 SEP 96 Defect Code Microfiche - Revision
100396 SEP 96 TIS Software Updated
720696 SEP 96 Transportation of Infants and Children in all BMW's
651396 AUG 96 Cellular Phone Antenna - Installation
070396 AUG 96 DIS Maintenance and Operation
240496 AUG 96 EPROM Replacement/Application
120996 AUG 96 EPROM Replacement/Application Chart
042796 AUG 96 New Wheel Weight Tools
042196 JUL 96 New Torque Indicator Tool
990296 JUL 96 Paint Materials Approved
640195 JUL 96 Retrofitting R-12 Air Conditioning with R-134a
720596 JUL 96 SRS Control Module (ZAE II) Coding
650796 MAY 96 Emergency Power Siren
620296 MAY 96 Maximum Permissible Speedometer Error
120195 MAY 96 Seal on 2 and 3 Pin Plug Connectors
070296 MAY 96 Updated DIS Software
650296 APR 96 6-Disc Alpine CD Changer Troubleshooting Guide
640695 APR 96 A/C System Noise Questionnaire
060196 APR 96 BMW Added Value Premium - Service Record Reporting
041896 APR 96 Bonded Windshield Adhesive Cutter
041196 APR 96 New Environmentally Safe Parts Washer
720496 APR 96 Safety Belt Buckles - Broken Printed Circuit Board
720396 APR 96 Safety Belts with Child Restraint Feature
080396 APR 96 Undefined MODIC Software
041696 MAR 96 New Clutch Disc Wear Gauge
310193 MAR 96 Replacement of Shock Absorbers
100396 MAR 96 TIS Software Update
070296 FEB 96 DIS Software Update
000996 FEB 96 Flat Rate Manual Addition
320196 FEB 96 Power Steering Diagnosis
510396 FEB 96 Sound Insulation Droops Down
360296 FEB 96 Wheel Configuration
0026903100 JAN 96 Update to Microfiche
040196 JAN 96 Tools - New Special Tools
1108944139 DEC 95 Engine Oil Viscosity Recommendation
2405954294 NOV 95 EGS/AGS Control Module EPROM Replacement
1203933824 NOV 95 Starter Motor Failures - Binding/Sticking Ignition
6201954172 SEP 95 Odometer/Coding Plug/Instrument Cluster Replacement
1111903149 AUG 95 Engine Oil Capacities - All Current
1203851085 AUG 95 Spark Plug Application - Chart
IDC1017957 JUN 95 Updated TIS Software
0408954211 MAY 95 New Special Tools - May 95
0104954209 APR 95 Dealer Communications System Enhancements
0040891999 APR 95 Service Information - Microfiche/Diskette Bulletins
IDC1016 APR 95 Software Errors MoDiC, Coding Version 12.0
IDC002 APR 95 Updated DIS tester Software
0405954166 MAR 95 Infrared Transmission Device (IR)
0428944128 MAR 95 New Special Tool - Replacement Cable
0403954154 FEB 95 BMW Special Tool
0202954164 FEB 95 BMW Winter Tire Recommendations Brochure
0203954170 FEB 95 BMW Winter Tire Recommendations Brochure (After Sales)
IDC1015 FEB 95 MoDiC Software - Update
0404954155 FEB 95 New Electrical Connector Kit Supplement
0102903030 FEB 95 Revised Defect Code Microfiche
IDC1014 FEB 95 Updated MoDiC Software
0001954147 JAN 95 1995 (ETM) Manual Supplement - 8 Series
IDC024 JAN 95 MoDiC Diagnostic Software Update
0024891938 JAN 95 Product Engineering Materials - Ordering
4101954150 JAN 95 Structural Adhesives
IDC023 JAN 95 Updated CD for TIS
6402944082 DEC 94 Availability of R-12 A/C Compressors
6106944069 DEC 94 Malfunction of Turn Signal/Hazard Flasher System
1107944089 DEC 94 Radiator Coolant Hoses
6504944049 OCT 94 CMT 2000VR Telephone Number Memory
5106944039 SEP 94 BMW Individual Vehicles
0404943981 SEP 94 Simulator Tool For Bosch Oxygen Sensors
3202944041 AUG 94 BMW Key Cutting Services
6103944032 AUG 94 Brake Light Switch
1303923589 JUL 94 Engine Compartment Return Fuel Hoses
3301903168 JUL 94 Rear Axle Ratio Update
3402933855 JUL 94 Steering Wheel Vibration (Brake Induced)
2302943974 JUN 94 S6S 560G Transmission Repairs
6411933929 MAY 94 A/C Oil Charge Procedure - R12/R134a
7202933794 MAY 94 Collision Repair Guidelines: Restraint Systems
6102943990 MAY 94 Noisy Wipers, Poor Cleaning
5203933917 DEC 93 Seat Repair Video
6105933895 NOV 93 Jump Starting of Vehicles
ATRATB191 OCT 93 Failsafe Modes - Computer Shifted Transmissions
3403933857 SEP 93 ABS Sensor - Lead Faults and Repair Procedure
1111903149 SEP 93 Engine Oil Capacities and Oil Dipstick Part Numbers
6102933812 AUG 93 Emergency Flashers Self-Activate
1801933846 AUG 93 Rotten Egg Smell From Exhaust
6417923674 AUG 93 Small Flakes From A/C Vents
1308881718 JUL 93 Emission System On-Board Diagnostic Code Update
0409933817 JUN 93 BMW Special Tool For Headlights - Modification
7204933822 JUN 93 SRS (Air Bag System) - Checking
7203933820 JUN 93 SRS Deployment Reports
6101933801 MAY 93 Battery Draw
3201933752 MAY 93 Steering Wheel Repair
6405933750 APR 93 Delayed Heater Output
1203851085 APR 93 Spark Plug Application
6401903042 MAR 93 A/C System Fill Capacity
0403933739 MAR 93 Correct Usage of Motorola Telephone Diagnostic Tool Kit
3405923692 MAR 93 Diagnostic Capability of Slip Control Systems
5101933766 MAR 93 Loose Vinyl Trim
0433923693 MAR 93 New ABS/ASC Diagnostic Tool
1102933749 MAR 93 Updated Oil Pipe Hollow (Banjo) Bolt
6501933727 MAR 93 Whistle From Cellular Phone Antenna
3601933732 FEB 93 New Wheel Casting
9903923718 JAN 93 Paint Damage Due to Acid Rain
6108891896 JAN 93 Windshield Wiper Chatter - Tool Modified
6420923691 DEC 92 A/C Microfilter Introductions
9902923704 DEC 92 Color Program and Overview
1204923661 NOV 92 Fault Code 09 Sets In Electronic Throttle Control Module
0432923688 NOV 92 New Tool - Accumulator Wrench
0426923644 OCT 92 New A/C Leak Detection - R134A and R12
0429923650 OCT 92 New Tool to Spread the Rear Wheels
6413923646 OCT 92 Nominal A/C System Pressures R12/R134A
0020913302R OCT 92 Vermont CFC Legislation
6513913411 SEP 92 Cellular Mobile Telephone Description
6518923621 SEP 92 Cellular Telephone Inoperative / Poor Reception On AM
3701923613 SEP 92 Defective EDC (Dealer Communication Syhstem) Sensors
ATRATB132 SEP 92 Intermittent Electrical Problems
5202923558 AUG 92 Seatback Binding or Locked When Folded Forward
1301923469 AUG 92 Throttle Body - Standardized Components
0417923587 JUL 92 Special Tools (Body)
6106923582 JUL 92 Troubleshooting Hints For Electrical & Computer Problems
6411923569 JUN 92 A/C Compressor Shutdown
0418923594 JUN 92 Electrical Repair Kit
3204923581 JUN 92 New Software For Kds Alignment System
1105923574 JUN 92 New Valve Cover Gasket
6503923478 JUN 92 Radio Defect Card, Information Only
0416923568 MAY 92 Cable Adapter For Elo Stecker Control Module
IDC0089120 MAY 92 Current Diagnsotic and Coding Software Bst/Modic
0413923561 MAY 92 ELO Diagnostic Cable - New Special Tool
6301923502 MAY 92 LKM (Lighting Control Module) Internal Defect
ATRATB110 MAY 92 Orifice Placement - Removable Orifices
3601923467 MAY 92 Tire Applications
2409913327 MAY 92 Torque Converter Clutch Engagement
IDC001928 MAY 92 Undefined Software Message Modic System
0414923562 MAY 92 Various Special Tools
6510923508 APR 92 Audio Amplifier/Speakers Replacement Part Numbers
IDC004919 APR 92 Engine Control Module Identification
6410923536 APR 92 Hfc-134A Air Conditioning System Troubleshooting
6205923552 APR 92 Loss of On-Board Computer Data In Electronic Body MOD.
6401922121 APR 92 New BMW HFC-134A A/C Systems Description
6502923471 APR 92 Radio Interference (Whine) From Generator
0412923554 APR 92 Refrigerant and A/C Compressor Pag Oil
0010923548 APR 92 SAE J-1930 Literature Terminology
0411923545 APR 92 Special Tools
6105923551 APR 92 Unusual Faults In Vehicle Electronics and/or Theft Det.
IDC0029215 APR 92 Updated Modic Software
1111903149 MAR 92 Engine Oil Capacities
3202923535 MAR 92 Hydraulic Fluid
0406923522 MAR 92 Introduction of New Refrigerant Hfc-134A
6406923518 MAR 92 Microfilter Replacement Intervals
0407923523 MAR 92 Modic Update Program
3301903168 MAR 92 Rear Axle Ratios
1203851085 MAR 92 Spark Plug Application Chart
3401923490 FEB 92 ABS, ASC, and ASC + T Malfunctions
1102923491 FEB 92 Engine Oils
7203891835 FEB 92 Handling of Pyrotechnic Devices: Airbag Modules
1103923500 FEB 92 Intake and Vacuum System Leak Detector
6402923495 FEB 92 Non-Approved Air Conditioning Refrigerants
6102923493 FEB 92 Non-Approved Electrical Accessories
6411913438 FEB 92 Repair Microfiche For Air Conditioning Systems
3602923512 FEB 92 Wheel Fastening Bolts
0103923489 JAN 92 Brake Component Returns Under Warranty
5102923466 JAN 92 Door Brakes
1101923484 JAN 92 Engine Hydraulic Lock
0202923479 JAN 92 Freon (R) R12 Recycling Poster
0102923488 JAN 92 Fuel Injectors
0430913454 JAN 92 Loss of Program In Modic
0403923481 JAN 92 New BMW Special Tool
0401923461 JAN 92 New BMW Special Tools Release Tool, IG. Switch, A/T
2301923463 JAN 92 New Transmission Designations
0402923462 JAN 92 Special Holder, Sealer Installer, A/T
2405923520 JAN 92 Transmission Cooler Flushing
0105913300 JAN 92 Warranty Processing By Area Assignment
6508903184 DEC 91 Alpine/Pioneer CD Player Mounting Brackets
0604913334 DEC 91 Iowa's New Lemon Law
0102903030 DEC 91 Revised Defect Code Microfiche Edition 22
0104903061 DEC 91 Warranty Part Return Status Report
6410913417 NOV 91 Heating/Air Conditioning Systems Info.
ATRATB078 NOV 91 How To Use A Pressure Gauge - Automatic Trans.
6501912118 OCT 91 BMW CMT1000/CMT1000 VR Cellular Mobile Telephone
6408913373 OCT 91 Musty Odors From Air Conditioning Units
0037913398 OCT 91 New Software For Diagnose Problems With the Airbag
0034913372 OCT 91 Updated BMW Service Tester Software 2.0
2301913316 JUL 91 Shift Characteristics Notchy
6106913285 JUL 91 Weak or Discharged Battery - Charging Information
6104913280 JUN 91 Warning Lights Come On and Central Locking Unlocks
6109913297 JUN 91 Windshield Wiper System Improvements
0409903090 MAY 91 Front Radial Oil Seal Installer For Torque Converter
0405913195 MAY 91 Headlight Adjustment Nuts
0408913247 APR 91 ASC+T Bleed Tool
6103913244 APR 91 Battery Acid ( Electrolyte) Precautions
ATRATB028 OCT 90 Engine Testing With A Vacuum Gauge - Auto Trans.
1110903144 OCT 90 Timing Chain Tensioning Rail Modified
ATRATB9002006 FEB 90 Automatic Transmission Fluid
1101902097 FEB 90 New Method of Controlling Crankcase Vapors
ATRATB8930 OCT 89 Automatic Transmission Math Part 2
ATRATB8927 SEP 89 20 Steps To successful Auto Transmission Repair
ATRATB8923 AUG 89 Automatic Transmission Math Formulas
0414891873 JUN 89 Cooling Of Automobile Components for Test Purposes
0412891853 APR 89 Seat Belt Pliers
1203891838 MAR 89 High Pressure Engine Steam Cleaning
0408891843 MAR 89 Seal Pliers For Speedometer Sender
0421881707 DEC 88 Special Tools BMW
0422881715 OCT 88 Distributor Rotor Bolt Remover
0423881722 OCT 88 Rivet Pliers For Plastic Rivets
0416881672 JUL 88 Repair Of Simulator Adaptor Cables
5203881587 JUN 88 Fastening Clips For Upholstery Available
3602881627 JUN 88 Wheel Balance and Tire Assembly
0432871553 MAY 88 Seat Pivot Pin Installer/Remover
0412881624 APR 88 26-Pin Universal Adaptor Cable Leads
0408881612 MAR 88 Lateral Runout/Brake Rotor Adapter
3402881585 FEB 88 Brake Discs Checking - New Tools
0431871550 FEB 88 Transmission Alignment Gauge
0427871516 FEB 88 Upper Timing Case Cover Special Tools
ATRATB8754 SEP 87 All Automatics - Front Bushing Wear
ATRATB8748 AUG 87 Metal Sealing Rings - Automatic Transmissions
1000298 MAR 00 Service Round Table - March 2000
070296 MAR 00 Updated DIS Software CD 21
040800 FEB 00 New Special Tool CD
002292 JAN 00 Spark Plug/Engine Oil Capacity Reference Chart
The BMW dealer is a good place to begin your search for records.
Here are my recommendations:
Step 1 - Get a Vehicle History Report from BMW
Depending on where you live, I'd go to the most reputable BMW dealer. Make friends with the service advisor and ask that a Vehicle History Report be run on your car (just give the person the car's VIN). This report will detail all of the repair work that has been done at BMW North America dealerships...and outline the dealerships involved complete with addresses and phone numbers. The report will also have 'defect codes' list to which the advisor can help you decipher. For example, defect code 0064050100 is a manufacturer recall (I think it's either the radiator cap and or the airbag).
Step 2 - Call the individual BMW dealers for detailed repair service records
In addition to this report, you'll get hints at which dealers worked on the car. You can then call the service department up and ask for additional "detailed" records in their files/computer database. The vehicle history report is only a summary line-item report. The dealerships have intimate detailed histories. While you're at it, ask if the dealer would be willing to 'stamp' the service booklet for the work they've done. Arrange to send the booklet to them and have it returned to you via pre-paid postage envelope. BTW, some dealerships are willing to send you copies of the actual service repair orders....Murray Motor Imports and Ralph Schomp BMW in Denver offer this to their customers.
Step 3 - Find out the ownership lineage of your car
This sounds crazy, but I've done this. Either through the service records from your search in Step 2, or the title search with your state Division of Motor Vehicles, you'll be able to glean who owned your car and their address. Write them a note letting them know you own this great car and ask if they have records and/or recollections of service history. This step is especially helpful in that this will gain you history that was done outside of the BMW dealer network.
My three-step recommendation is a lot of work. We just went through this on our new acquisition of a 1999 BMW 750iL 39k miles (Birratz Blue). Everyone was cooperative and good-natured about our inquiries. In fact, the Florida BMW dealer near Tampa was impressed that a devoted BMW owner wanted this information since most people don't ask for it! In addition, we made contact with the previous owner and he was surprised the car ended up in Denver.
Let us know how it turns out for you. Also, if you're having problems with your local BMW dealer in getting the Vehicle History Report, drop me a line and I'll see what I can do for you.
Best,
Jud
Denver, CO
'91 850i 6sp 16k miles
'94 850CSi 33k miles (#63 of 225)