Latest news with #iDrive
Time Business News
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Time Business News
Need More Affordable BMW Auto Spares in the UK? The Smart Choice Is Used Auto Parts
Owning a BMW means driving with purpose. It's about precision handling, premium finishes, and an engine that delivers every time. But when parts wear out or fail, repairs can get expensive fast. That's why more UK drivers are turning to BMW used auto parts—and they're finding the best value at Whether you're a DIY enthusiast fixing up your daily driver or a garage working on customer builds, the smart solution is to use BMW auto spares. And no one supplies them with more trust, range, or care than MT Auto Parts. BMWs are built to exacting standards, and even one wrong part can throw off the driving experience. That's why choosing parts that match your exact model is essential. Here's what the right fit gives you: Smoother Performance – No hiccups, just precise driving Longer Component Life – Quality spares reduce long-term wear Fewer Safety Risks – Trusted parts keep your BMW secure Better Resale Value – Well-maintained cars retain more value At MT Auto Parts, every item is carefully tested, cleaned, and ready to install—backed by a 30-day warranty (T&C apply). New parts can cost a fortune. But BMW used auto parts offer the same quality—at a fraction of the cost. When you buy from MT Auto Parts, you're not just saving money—you're getting real value: OEM and high-quality aftermarket parts Tested and cleaned for reliability Wide stock availability for F & G generation BMWs Backed by expert support and warranty protection This is why BMW parts shoppers across the UK—from Sheffield to London—are making the switch to used BMW parts and buying online, rather than looking in the shops. Whatever your repair or upgrade, MT Auto Parts stocks nearly every part for 2012+ BMW models. Here's a quick overview of the most in-demand categories: Complete petrol, diesel, and hybrid engines Turbochargers, cylinder heads, belts, pumps Fuel injectors, engine sensors Manual and automatic gearboxes ECUs, gear selectors, gearbox mounts Differentials and transmission modules Shocks, struts, and steering racks Control arms, anti-roll bars, bushings Power steering pumps and columns Bonnet, bumpers, boot lids, doors Grilles, side mirrors, and window regulators Wings, fenders, and body kits Multimedia units, navigation, and iDrive components Alternators, starters, wiring, and modules Parking sensors, reverse cameras, and lighting Steering wheels, dashboards, centre consoles Gear knobs, seatbelts, armrests, and trims Complete seats and interior panels Every part is sourced directly from dismantled BMW vehicles—mostly original, sometimes high-grade aftermarket—and always clearly listed in the website with high-quality photos. Choosing used parts shouldn't mean compromising on quality. Here's what sets MT Auto Parts apart: Most of the parts tested and inspected Cleaned and ready to install Backed by a 30-day warranty on major components (T&C apply) Huge savings compared to dealership pricing Discounts for garages, trade buyers, and bulk orders Special deals on common replacements like mirrors, sensors, and ECUs Free 48-hour delivery on items under 20 kg (T&C apply) Affordable rates on heavier parts like engines and gearboxes Delivery across the UK and international options available Secure checkout via PayPal, credit card, or bank transfer Option for cash on collection or payment with bank car from South Yorkshire, Thurnscoe warehouse Easy return process if the part doesn't fit Avoid the stress of ordering the wrong item with these tips: Know Your Model and Year – F30 3 Series? G05 X5? Always confirm. Use the OEM Part Number – Match it directly from your original part. Ask the Experts – MT Auto Parts staff will confirm compatibility for you and will help you find the right part. Read the Listing Carefully – Look for notes on fitment and condition. Keep Packaging – It helps if you need to return the part. Q: Do you sell genuine BMW parts? A: Yes—most parts are OEM. Any aftermarket items are clearly labeled. Q: What if I get the wrong part? A: You can return it within 30 days if it's in the original condition (T&C apply). Q: Can I collect the part myself? A: Absolutely. You're welcome to visit our South Yorkshire, Thurnscoe facility and pay cash or with a card. Q: Are used parts reliable? A: 100%. Mostly everything we sell is tested and inspected before dispatch. Q: Do you sell parts for older BMWs too? A: Yes—we stock parts for many BMW models from 2012 onward, including F & G generation models. BMWs deserve quality parts—and UK drivers deserve fair prices. That's where MT Auto Parts comes in. With one of the UK's largest selections of BMW used auto parts, expert support, and fast nationwide delivery, they're making premium repairs accessible to everyone. Looking for BMW auto spares, gearbox parts, or even a complete BMW engine? You'll find it at MT Auto Parts—without the dealership markup. Visit to explore parts for your BMW today. Shop smart. Drive strong. Stay on budget. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
German Car Depot Publishes New Article on ‘BMW Repair Services: Expert Care for Your Ultimate Driving Machine'
Hollywood, FL, May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --German Car Depot, a leading auto repair shop specializing in German car brands, is happy to announce that it has recently published a new article, 'BMW Repair Services: Expert Care for Your Ultimate Driving Machine.' Leveraging years of expertise and knowledge of Alan Gelfand, German car expert and owner of German Car Depot, the repair shop's new article aims to provide guidance to BMW drivers on how to find the most reliable repair technicians, the benefits of maintenance and what should be included, and the most common BMW issues, along with how to remedy them. 'As the owner of German Car Depot and someone who has spent over two decades working with German automobiles, I've seen firsthand how proper maintenance and skilled repairs can extend the life of a BMW,' stated Mr Gelfand. 'When it comes to your 'Ultimate Driving Machine,' expertise matters—cutting corners with inexperienced technicians can lead to costly complications down the road. At German Car Depot, we believe that proper BMW repair isn't just about fixing what's broken—it's about understanding these remarkable vehicles well enough to keep them performing at their best for years to come.' Some of the core areas outlined in German Car Depot's new specialist BMW repair article include: Why BMW-Specific Knowledge Matters BMWs are engineering marvels with unique systems that require specialized knowledge. From the complex electronics to the precise engine timing, these vehicles demand technicians who understand their distinctive architecture. Unlike general repair shops, specialists possess: Extensive training on BMW-specific systems Access to specialized diagnostic equipment Experience with common model-specific issues Understanding of BMW's engineering philosophy BMW Common Issues That Require Expert Attention Electronic Systems Modern BMWs contain sophisticated electronics that control everything from engine performance to comfort features. Common electronic issues include: iDrive system malfunctions Electrical parasitic drains Failing sensors that trigger check engine lights Adaptive headlight system failures Expert technicians use specialized diagnostic tools to pinpoint these issues accurately rather than replacing parts through guesswork. Cooling System Reliability BMWs are known for certain cooling system vulnerabilities that benefit from preventive maintenance: Water pump failures (particularly in 3-series models) Thermostat housing leaks Expansion tank cracks Radiator plastic end tank failures An experienced BMW technician recognizes early warning signs and can recommend timely preventive repairs before a minor issue becomes a major breakdown. Oil Leaks and Gasket Failures As BMWs age, several seals and gaskets commonly require attention: Valve cover gaskets Oil filter housing gaskets Oil pan gaskets Timing cover seals These seemingly minor leaks can lead to serious problems if oil contaminates electrical components or drive belts. Proper repair requires meticulous attention to detail and a comprehensive understanding of how these components interact. The Value of Proper Diagnostic Procedures When a BMW displays a warning light or exhibits unusual behavior, the proper diagnostic approach makes all the difference: Comprehensive computer scanning using BMW-specific software Physical inspection by a technician familiar with model-specific issues Road testing to reproduce intermittent problems Systematic troubleshooting based on experience with similar cases This methodical approach saves both time and money by addressing the root cause rather than merely treating symptoms. Maintenance: The Key to BMW Longevity Preventive maintenance is especially crucial for BMWs. Following manufacturer-recommended service intervals is essential, but a BMW specialist often knows which services should be performed earlier than recommended for certain models based on real-world experience. Critical BMW Maintenance Services include: Oil service using BMW-approved lubricants Transmission fluid changes (despite 'lifetime fluid' claims) Cooling system flushes and component inspections Brake fluid replacement (BMW recommends every two years due to fluid's hygroscopic nature) Finding the Right BMW Service Partner When selecting a service facility for a BMW, individuals should consider the following factors: Technician certifications and BMW-specific training Diagnostic equipment capabilities Access to genuine or high-quality parts Warranty options on repairs Transparency in explaining issues and solutions A quality BMW service provider views their relationship with a client as a partnership in maintaining a vehicle's performance, safety, and value. 'Your BMW represents precision German engineering at its finest—an investment that deserves care from technicians who understand its unique requirements. Whether you're maintaining a classic E30 3-series or the latest X7 SAV, entrusting your vehicle to specialists with model-specific expertise will ensure many miles of the legendary BMW driving experience,' added Mr Gelfand. German Car Depot encourages BMW owners seeking a comprehensive guide to ensuring a highly functioning and long-lasting vehicle to read its new article today. About German Car Depot Located in Hollywood, FL, German Car Depot has been serving its local community for over 30 years with top-notch repairs for German car brands at prices that will save 20-30% compared to the dealership. With the latest equipment and technology and a team of trained technicians, German Car Depot maintains vehicles quickly and accurately without the costs and time associated with taking a vehicle to the dealer. More Information To learn more about German Car Depot and its new article, 'BMW Repair Services: Expert Care for Your Ultimate Driving Machine', please visit the website at Source: CONTACT: German Car Depot 2130 Fillmore St Hollywood Florida 33020 United States 954-921-1515
The Drive
7 days ago
- Automotive
- The Drive
2025 BMW M2 Quick Review: Pint-Sized Aggression
The latest car news, reviews, and features. Nowadays, anything you bought two seconds ago is already considered old and in need of a replacement. Which probably explains why the 2025 BMW M2 receives a myriad of updates, even though the model was completely redesigned just two years ago. With the updated M2, Bavaria's littlest M offering gets a horsepower boost, is quicker off the line, rocks BMW's latest infotainment software, and is a bit more razzle-dazzle with new colors and finishes. What remains unchanged, for better or worse, is the M2's aggressive demeanor. Exterior design changes are subtle. The exhaust tips are now black, as are the silver-outlined M2 badges. There are a slew of new color choices, including the no-cost Sao Paulo Yellow and $650 metallic shades. New BMW Individual colors, like the Java Green coat on this test car, will cost you $3,000. Inside, there's an upgraded operating system, iDrive 8.5. This latest generation of BMW infotainment is slick and quick but removes sorely missed buttons. Hard climate controls (which include heating functions for the seat and steering wheel) have been sacrificed in the name of minimalism, wholly migrated into iDrive. Thankfully, the touchscreen controls are easily accessible by having a permanent place at the bottom of the display rather than buried inside a menu. Physically, brushed aluminium is the new standard trim, and a new red highlight is available for the standard leather seats. Or ditch the full leather for the M Carbon bucket seats, which are now offered as a $4,500 standalone option. But if you go that route, you might as well grab the Carbon Package. Not only do the extra carbon bits look nice, but you also get the buckets and a BMW Performance Center class pass. Arguably the most notable change for the 2025 M2, however, is a 20-hp bump for the carryover 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight-six. Power tops off at 473 hp for both the six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic—I drove the manual. Interestingly, though, the stick shift retains the same 406 lb-ft of torque from last year's model while the automatic gets a bump to 443 lb-ft. Understandably, some retuning of the drive mode settings (i.e., accelerator mapping, responsiveness) was needed, which resulted in a 0.1-second 0-60 mph improvement. BMW says the manual M2 now takes 4.1 seconds to reach 60 mph, while the automatic M2 needs just 3.9 seconds. I wouldn't be surprised if the automaker was being safe with those numbers, though. With an Alcantara-laden flat-bottom steering wheel in one hand and six-speed shifter in the other, the M2 offers blistering performance, precise handling, and a ride that's as stiff as an oak, even in Comfort mode. The M2 is also small—on the wrong side of cramped, I'd say, and I'm only five-foot-two. Worse is that I have to set the seat as far forward as it'll go just to reach the clutch, which makes shifting a bit awkward. [Ed. note: Shocker. -CT] And if I have a drink in the cupholder, hopefully, it's a container that can handle several knuckle punches. The shifter itself is hefty and short, making shifts feel nice and quick. Although the steering wheel is undoubtedly comfortable, it also felt laughably large in such a compact setting. Some might take issue with the carbon fiber seat bottom inserts ('crotch destroyers,' said a friend), but those were actually less aggressive than the bolstering. Yet all that quibbling and inconvenience melts away when you've got an empty highway and a wide open throttle. The 473 hp makes acceleration effortless, and coupled with the sound of that straight-six—I cackled. This runt is fun. Turn on the M Sound Control if you want elevated levels of exhaust growls and burbles. It's excessive but hilarious, and I'd recommend starting the car after 8 a.m. so you wouldn't have to apologize for it. Beverly Braga What does deserve apologies are corners. The M2 absolutely loves them to the point of obsession. Like, do you have to hug them so tight? The steering was precise, as it should be in an M car—or any BMW, really. This is a car that has zero chill, no matter how nicely you ask. Comfort mode only seems to exist on the drive mode selection screen, but it is nowhere near a reality. Brakes are on point, but like many facets of the M2, more aggressive than necessary. Seriously, would it have hurt Bavaria to engineer in some comfort? Although I never did find the sweet spot with the brake pedal during this test, I eventually managed to come to a stop without jolting. Going through life as if it has a chip on its wide shoulders, the M2 adamantly insists that its sporty DNA always be on , even if you're just pulling out of the driveway. The ride is so stiff that every long drive feels like a visit to the chiropractor. And the dentist. Does this need for speed grow tiresome? Sometimes. But like the hyperactive little sibling you never asked for, there's not much you can do about it. Beverly Braga The 2025 BMW M2 is ultra compact in size but oversized in heart. M performance runs strongly through the little one's veins. From its slabtastic sheet metal and iDrive-reliant controls to its stuck-in-your-seat cockpit and overcompensating performance, the M2 is pint-sized aggression. But if you can ignore the M2's limited space and incapacity for comfort, you'll be rewarded with a hell of a joyride and a soundtrack to match. 2025 BMW M2 Specs MT AT Base Price (as tested) $66,075 ($82,075) $66,075 Powertrain 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight-six | 6-speed manual | rear-wheel drive 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight-six | 8-speed automatic | rear-wheel drive Horsepower 473 @ 6,250 rpm << Torque 406 lb-ft @ 2,650-6,130 rpm 443 lb-ft @ 2,700-5,620 rpm Seating Capacity 4 << Cargo Volume 13.8 cubic feet << Curb Weight 3,814 pounds 3,867 pounds 0-60 mph 4.1 seconds 3.9 seconds Top Speed 155 mph (177 with M Driver's Package) << EPA Fuel Economy 16 mpg city | 23 highway | 19 combined << Score 8/10 The smallest M car swings a solid punch. Beverly Braga has enjoyed an eventful career as a Swiss Army knife, having held roles as an after-school teacher, film critic, PR manager, transcriber, and video producer – to name a few. She is currently a communications consultant and freelance writer whose work has appeared in numerous outlets covering automotive, entertainment, lifestyle, and food & beverage. Beverly grew up in Hawaii but roots for Washington, D.C., sports teams.
The Citizen
24-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Brilliant BMW X6 xDrive30d M Sport ticks all the right boxes
Peach of a 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine makes coupe-styled SUV fast and frugal. It seems like just the other day that BMW started to offer X models, but it has literally been decades. By now X models represent the top sellers throughout the brand's vehicle offerings. This is for good reason, because they offer the best of both worlds. It provides road comfort and manners but with the ability to go off-road (mostly). One of these is the coupe-styled BMW X6 xDrive30d M Sport SUV that we recently spent a week cruising around in. You can see the new styling changes to the BMW X6. The slim headlight units with arrow-shaped daytime driving light elements, plus the BMW kidney Iconic Glow that is offered as an option for the six-cylinder models. M Sport package standard on BMW X6 And now for the first time on the BMW X6, you get the M Sport package as standard. Playing a key role here is the octagonal front-end signature below the BMW kidney grille, the generous use of black surfaces, M-specific side skirts, M High-gloss Shadowline trim, while the rear apron has an insert in Dark Shadow. The new exhaust tailpipe trims are trapezoidal in shape. ALSO READ: More powerful plug-in hybrid BMW X5 a true diesel alternative But what has changed under the skin? You have new systems for automated driving and parking and a fully digital iDrive control system with BMW Curved Display based on BMW Operating System 8. Perhaps even more important in the new electrification era, you now have 48V mild hybrid technology on the powertrains. The integration of BMW Operating System 8 and the latest generation of the iDrive control system herald the arrival of the BMW Curved Display in the BMW X6. It is made up of a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches – both located behind a single glass surface. The coupe-styled slanting rear roof is a standout feature of the BMW X. Picture: Mark Jones Less physical switchgear The touch control functionality of the control display has brought about a significant reduction in the number of buttons and switches in favour of digital control for numerous functions. It takes a bit more time navigating your way around the cockpit. But an owner who will drive their BMW X6 everyday will adapt. And it will all become second nature to them. Comfort and safety in the BMW X6 are on another level with a significantly expanded selection of automated driving and parking systems. Updates include enhanced capabilities for the standard front-collision warning system, which can now also reduce the risk of a collision with cyclists, pedestrians or oncoming traffic when turning off a road. Among the options now available are automatic Speed Limit Assist, exit warning, route speed control, Emergency Stop Assistant, and Lane Change Assistant. As well as the Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant, the standard Parking Assistant now comprises the drive-off monitoring and Trailer Assistant functions. And the new, optional Parking Assistant Professional enables automated parking into and out of spaces and complete manoeuvres over up to 200 metres to be controlled from outside the BMW X6 using the My BMW App on an Apple iPhone. ALSO READ: Mild hybrid tech gives BMW X5 M60i sting in the tail Brilliant powertrain Getting out on the road is where the BMW X6 really shines though, especially in xDrive30d form. BMW's 3.0-litre turbodiesel has been the feather in their cap for as long as I can remember. They just keep refining this brilliant powertrain and it works. Eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission complete with gearshift paddles on the steering wheel sends the power and torque to the road via BMW's xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The Curved Display makes its debut in the BMW X6. Picture: Mark Jones All the drive units now feature 48V mild hybrid technology. An electric motor integrated into the transmission generates an output boost of up to 9kW of power and 200Nm of torque. And this in turn means that when combined with the combustion engine, the hybrid system can produce a maximum output of 219kW and a peak torque of 670Nm. ALSO READ: Finally priced: BMW puts stickers on all-new generation X3 BMW X6 ticks all the boxes The claim is a 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 233km/h. That is more than enough urge for everyday use. Although I doubt this will trouble you too much if you are hauling out close on R2-million for a SUV, but the claimed fuel consumption number of 7.8 litres per 100km should make a difference to your monthly expenses. And The Citizen Motoring achieved the same number during our week of mixed urban and highway driving for what it is worth to you or your accountant. The BMW X6 xDrive30d M Sport did everything right. At R1 905 000 it is substantially cheaper than most of its other premium competitors. And it could almost represent great value for money if you move in these types of circles.
NZ Autocar
03-05-2025
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
2025 BMW X3 M50 xDrive Review
The M50 xDrive sits at the top of the X3 line-up, a performance-oriented SUV with a compelling blend of power, agility and everyday usability. Don't wait for the new X3 M as rumours suggest this M50 will be the hottest gas-burning X3. BMW will apply the full M treatment to the forthcoming iX3, due next year. But don't feel hard done by, for this is worthy of its M badge, even if it's not the full-fat version. It still has a heap of power, goes like hell and yet is civilised enough to play the part of a luxury SUV. That starts with the styling, not overly pumped as M cars tend to be. The M aerodynamics package gives it enough sporting flashes to signal the intent. We like its restraint in that regard, although that massive grille up front is hardly subtle, especially at night when the whole front end lights up. Inside, it's all action too, sporting a fat wheel with a flat bottom rim and big gearshift flappers in behind. There are leather treatments and also an interesting knitted textile finishing which is an optional $1200 extra. It's a tad different, though does remind of the Holden Cruze which rocked a similar finish on its dashboard. It also features on the door tops, though doesn't feel very welcoming when your forearm comes into contact with it. BMW's ongoing digitalisation quest sees a big screen for the iDrive which features QuickSelect (getting things done with a minimum of tapping and swiping) and a reduction in physical buttons. They still persist with the iDrive controller however, taking up valuable space on the console. It's best to learn how to harness the voice controller, making it all less distracting. But enough about all that, what about the power unit? That's a silky smooth 3.0-litre inline six, making 280kW and 540Nm of torque. Being as it's 2025, BMW has added a motor in the mix too. This 48v device is a crankshaft-mounted starter generator and is integrated into the eight-speed auto's housing. It generates 200Nm and 13kW, helping the six to get things pumping more quickly from stopped. It can also enable electric driving when parking and manoeuvring, though not very often. This mild hybrid device allows BMW to quote max power at 293kW and torque of 580Nm. It helps smooth out the torque delivery too, the six feels strong right down low, turbo lag not an issue. Does it help consumption? The official figure is 8.3L/100km, whereas this vehicle's long term average was tracking in the mid-10s. That's acceptable for a decent sized SUV, especially one that can hit the limit in 4.6sec. Yes this is quick but it's more than just a straight-line fiend. While it's not quite the quasi-911 as the number plate might suggest, it's proficient at covering ground. The six's healthy torque reserve fills the 2000-4000rpm range before the power properly chimes in as it revs sonorously towards 6000. Click the trans into its Sport setting, and then you need not worry about the paddles. It's quick with the changes, holding in gear perfectly on a winding road, and it's smart with an accompanying downshift when you're on the brakes. These are darn good too, with a just-right action and plenty of stopping power. Of course it steers well, with a feelsome character, the assistance being not too heavy. It's quick enough on the turn as well, without being darty. While it's close to two tonnes on the road, it manages itself well. It's fairly neutral through the corners, balanced and grippy. There's stuff-all protest from the front end as the hardware and electronics combine to round up bends in convincing fashion. BMW's AWD system has an electronically-controlled multiplate clutch in the transfer case that gets signals from the DSC system to send the torque where it's needed most. It runs a rear-drive bias to neutralise the power-on understeer, while it's helped by the electro-mechanical M Sport rear LSD, further dividing the drive between the rear wheels. And so with all that, it's hard to unstick. While the suspenders have been mildly M'd (firmer damper settings, 'moderately' increased spring rates and stauncher anti-roll bars), the adaptive nature of the shocks sees it doing a good double act. It's fairly compliant in its Normal mode, and pretty hushed on the highway considering its sizeable tyres (285/35s on the rear). On the daily, the M50 is just as easy going as the 20d, with breezy steering and a good turnaround. There are BMW's well drilled helpers on board; the reverse assistant helping you out of tricky spots, and the cracking surround view camera. There's also the assisted driving function that helps deal with both rush hour traffic (great in the stop and go grind) and motorway cruising. However, it leaves quite a distance to the car in front. Practically speaking, it has room for four comfortably, a middle passenger in the back at a squeeze. The X3 offers 570 litres of boot space and its 40:20:40 split back seat allows more load versatility. Fold them all down and space increases to 1700L. And it can tow up to 2.5 tonnes. Quite a versatile performance machine then, if on the expensive side at $150,900. The competitive set includes the similarly-priced Audi SQ5, which is a bit old now, the diesel-powered SUV not quite as quick or dynamic. From Mercedes-Benz, the AMG GLC 43 uses a highly-strung four pot that can't match the low-end grunt or smoothness of BMW's six. BMW X3 M50 xDrive$150,900 / 8.3L/100km / 189g/km 0-100 km/h 4.6s Engine 2990cc / IL6 / DI/T Max power 293kW@5200-6200rpm Max torque 580Nm@1900-4800rpm Drivetrain 8-speed auto / AWD Weight (claimed) 1980kg
