New ti Owner, Los Angeles, CA, service questions

[dommbmw]

Hello there,
I got my ti three months ago. It's a 97 that just hit 46k miles. No typo there. I'd been looking at TI's for some time. One, I'm a BMW fan. My first was an '82 320i and my second was a '94 525i. I was attracted to the ti because of the hatchback (to carry band gear) without resorting a wagon. Now I'm wondering what's some of the stuff I should keep an eye out for. I have already replaced te original rear shocks and the front is next. Also, it seems the car has a body kit that has fog lights but I don't see a switch in the interior. Apologize for the ignorance. Any help and feedback appreciated. Thanks.

-Dennis

[Marv17]

If you have fog lights that were from factory there should be two knobs by the steering wheel, one on each side. Left one is the headlights and right is fog lights.

Welcome to the org... Let us know if you need any help or have questions. There are still a few ppl in LA

[dommbmw]

Thanks. They are not from the factory then because there is no knob on the right. But I have seen that there are wires coming from the dog lights but I haven't tried to trace them out. There are a few blank panels to the bottom left of the wheel where there is a green ASC push button switch. Did notice that when I push that ON, a yellow exclamation mark goes ON on the dashboard.

[Marv17]

Hmm... Might have an aftermarket switch somewhere or can be wired up with the headlight switch/knob. The ASC is traction control. When it lights up it is telling you that it is off.

[FunElan]

Welcome to the org. I just moved away from LA with a '96 that has 67k miles. You got me beat! Where'd you find the car?

[E36 TI-M]

Is your car white? Was that the one being sold somewhere in fullerton by a dealer for $8000?

[jca]

Welcome! You've probably heard all the cooling system horror stories for Ti's and all
E-36's for that matter. They're all true! Even given the low miles, if it were mine I would change out all fluids and filters to get a fresh start on old school preventive maintenance. Be sure to use BMW coolant. Radiator should be changed out at 100k miles; thermostat and water pump every 60k or so. What you are aim for is to prevent ever overheating the engine which usually results in a blown head gasket at best. Cooling system aside, the rest of the engine is stout. Cheers! John