I've had a 1995 318i , 125 Km ,automatic, for the last 6 months now, and there are a few things that I have done that improved performance:
- I put in a K&N air filter
- I noticed a big difference changing fuel used from regular to high-test premium. Now I only will use premium.
- The baffles in my stock muffler are shot, but this probably helps with performance, although I find it too loud. I'm going to replace it with a stock cat-back exhaust.
- What surprised me the most was I noticed some fine hairline cracks in the ignition coil-pack casing. I bought a Bosch replacement because those cracks are a sign that the coil pack will fry soon. When that happens, it will cook your DME computer module, and to replace that can cost 00, or more. Once that coil-pack was replaced, I had such a vast improvement in performance...the plugs were getting the proper amount of voltage. I would suggest you have a close look with a magnifying glass, and good lighting, and if that coil-pack casing looks stressed at all, replace it immediatly, before more damage will be done. They are NOT expensive...I got mine for 0 CDN, and it only takes five easy minutes to change it yourself.
- Here's something to check that may save you future electrical problems, including a fire. My wires were starting to fray, and I did the repair. See this link:
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If your idle is a bit erratic, remove and clean the ICV (idle controlvalve). You will find it under the intake manifold. There are some goodsites on the internet for this and other DIY procedures. Here's a link thatis very helpful:
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. That should get you started. You will find that, like all cars, there will problems with yours. I find the 318 very easy to work on, so you can do a lot yourself, but don't be afraid to take it to a dealer, if you are unsure when a problem does occur. Their shop rates are quite reasonable, although the parts can be very expensive. At least you can get a diagnosis from them, and you may be able to do the repair yourself. There are many good BMW forums on the net, with lots of good tips and advice from other owners. That has been my greatest source of info, but there is also an embarrassment of riches....too much info, can lead you down the wrong path. That's why I still will use the dealer's service foreman. I have got to know him fairly well, and he has given me lots of great FREE advice. Finally, my 318i automatic is a great car, it's not a 6 cylinder, but it is reliable...don't get too hung-up on trying to get more performance out of your car, than is possible. You could regret it. Your car was made by BMW engineers, with more experience and technical skills and equipment, than you will ever have. They designed the engine to give the best performance that a
4 cylinder could give. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. I learned this myself, but it sure took me a long time follow that rule. take care and happy motoring.