Sulev in Pennsylvania

[Mgrank]

Hi all, I have a 2013 328i convertible with sulev engine (n51 I believe) in PA. Only 36000 miles and was running like new.. This weekend I had sort of a stuttering and vibration with reduced power when accelerating, and vibration was present on idle. The check engine soon light went on and off. I’ve known about the extended Sulev warranty but find the details of what will be covered to be pretty confusing depending on state and age/model. My local mechanic will do a diagnostic for $45, and the dealer wants $135. I trust the local guy, but if the warranty does end up coming into play, I’ll need to go to the dealer. Kind of in a quandary as to best first step. Please let me know if you have a guess as to what is malfunctioning and how to handle the sulev warranty questions. Thanks!

[MarcoZandrini]

The first step in diagnosing a problem is to scan the engine computer (DME in BMWspeak) for codes. Find a reputable indie shop that specializes in bimmers at www.bimrs.org. Also, get the OBDFusion app for your smartphone or tablet. Then buy the appropriate interface adapter that plugs into the obd2 connector under the dash.

[jclausen]

Since you have no idea what is wrong with the car, you need to get it diagnosed, I don't know how this guy is making money at $45 to diagnosis but that's another story if he can do it fine, but beware

[MarcoZandrini]

A $45 diagnostic is likely just a scan of the DME.