Can BMW drivetrain maintenance help me save money?

Servicing the drivetrain system can help you save money by saving other parts of your vehicle. A bad drivetrain can put undue stress on other vehicle parts and lead to premature wear and tear.

How do I know if my BMW drivetrain is damaged?

Hear noises toward the back of your BMW 318i? See fluid leaking? Having issues turning? These could all be signs of drivetrain damage you don't want to ignore. Take action quickly to catch repairs or replacements before something more severe happens.

How often will I need BMW 318i differential service?

Double check your owner’s manual and talk with a technician. Differential service frequency varies from car to car. At a minimum, we recommend getting your differential inspected and the differential fluid changed as a part of your regular vehicle maintenance routine since your vehicle cannot function without a differential.

Why is the malfunction indicator light (MIL) on in my 318i?

If your 318i has its malfunction warning light (more commonly called the check engine light) illuminated, it could indicate engine troubles, problems with the transmission, electrical issues, malfunctioning sensors, connector problems, or misfire issues.

Can you clear the 318i check engine light on your own?

While it’s sometimes possible to clear a malfunction warning light at home, it’s never recommended. If your 318i’s check engine light comes on, it’s usually because there is a problem in one of the vehicle’s systems. You should find and address the underlying issue to help keep your vehicle in great shape. By simply resetting the check engine light, you may temporarily get rid of the light, but the underlying problem is still there. It will only be a matter of time before the light comes back.

Is a drivetrain malfunction in my 318i serious?

If you experience a drivetrain malfunction in your 318i, it is important to have it inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible to identify the underlying cause and perform the necessary repairs. Driving with a malfunctioning drivetrain can be dangerous and cause further damage to your car.

Is the transmission considered part of the drivetrain in my 318i?

Yes, the transmission is a key component of the drivetrain system in your 318i. The drivetrain is the system of components that delivers power from the engine to the wheels to propel the vehicle forward. It includes the transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axles.

1996 BMW 318i Drivetrain Service

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Get BMW 318i Drivetrain Service

Maintain your drivetrain to help maintain vehicle power. Our technicians are trained to perform 1996 BMW 318i drivetrain services. Schedule your appointment today.

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All About 1996 BMW 318i Drivetrain Service

The drivetrain is responsible for transferring power from your 318i's engine to its wheels. It spans the length of your vehicle, from the transmission to the axles. It's one of the most complex systems in your 318i and is made up of everything after the engine transmission: driveshafts, axles, joints, differentials, and wheels. When you tune into you 1996 BMW 318i drivetrain, you help maintain your vehicle’s overall power. You can help prevent repairs by checking and changing differential fluids, and lubricating bearings and gears according to BMW's recommendations.

BMW 318i Drivetrain Repairs

You don't want to go to just anyone for drivetrain repair. Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are all different. You want to come see the technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can take care of most 1996 BMW 318i drivetrain components including the CV axles, joints, and driving shaft. Your 318i might need driveshaft repair if you notice heavy vibrations in your floorboards, clunks when shifting, resistance when turning, or vibration as your vehicle accelerates. It's hard to put a timeframe on drivetrain repair. The system's pieces and parts don't necessarily have a "shelf life." A lot depends on your driving style and climate. That’s one reason it’s a wise idea to visit Firestone Complete Auto Care at the first sign your BMW 318i doesn’t drive like it used to.

Is normal to wonder whether or not 1996 BMW 318i drivetrain repair is expensive. Some smaller differential fixes, like gasket or seal replacement, can lean toward being more affordable. But bigger repairs, like gear or bearing replacement, can be a little more expensive since the labor is much more intensive.

1996 BMW 318i Drivetrain Questions

When you have drivetrain problems, you have driving problems. Check out our top 1996 BMW 318i drivetrain Q&A below, and visit your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care with any drivetrain concerns.

Can BMW drivetrain maintenance help me save money? Servicing the drivetrain system can help you save money by saving other parts of your vehicle. A bad drivetrain can put undue stress on other vehicle parts and lead to premature wear and tear.
How do I know if my BMW drivetrain is damaged? Hear noises toward the back of your BMW 318i? See fluid leaking? Having issues turning? These could all be signs of drivetrain damage you don't want to ignore. Take action quickly to catch repairs or replacements before something more severe happens.
How often will I need BMW 318i differential service? Double check your owner’s manual and talk with a technician. Differential service frequency varies from car to car. At a minimum, we recommend getting your differential inspected and the differential fluid changed as a part of your regular vehicle maintenance routine since your vehicle cannot function without a differential.
Why is the malfunction indicator light (MIL) on in my 318i? If your 318i has its malfunction warning light (more commonly called the check engine light) illuminated, it could indicate engine troubles, problems with the transmission, electrical issues, malfunctioning sensors, connector problems, or misfire issues.
Can you clear the 318i check engine light on your own? While it’s sometimes possible to clear a malfunction warning light at home, it’s never recommended. If your 318i’s check engine light comes on, it’s usually because there is a problem in one of the vehicle’s systems. You should find and address the underlying issue to help keep your vehicle in great shape. By simply resetting the check engine light, you may temporarily get rid of the light, but the underlying problem is still there. It will only be a matter of time before the light comes back.
Is a drivetrain malfunction in my 318i serious? If you experience a drivetrain malfunction in your 318i, it is important to have it inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible to identify the underlying cause and perform the necessary repairs. Driving with a malfunctioning drivetrain can be dangerous and cause further damage to your car.
Is the transmission considered part of the drivetrain in my 318i? Yes, the transmission is a key component of the drivetrain system in your 318i. The drivetrain is the system of components that delivers power from the engine to the wheels to propel the vehicle forward. It includes the transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axles.

1996 BMW 318i Repair

Nothing lasts forever. Even your BMW 318i's many parts and pieces. When something breaks, we're ready. Click on a repair below to learn more about 1996 BMW 318i repairs.