My 2004 330i ZHP has a definite flat spot at just over 4000rpm. I've had this car since January of this year, it's got 72k miles on it. Have there been any software updates to address this? Thanks for any help.
Here's some info that I hope helps you: http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=568209&highlight=4000rpm http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=541059&highlight=4000 rpm power http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=555570&highlight=power dip Sounds like you have a couple of things that could solve your problem: 1. ECU update 2. VANOS seal replacement I would say do both! You are most likely gonna have to replace your VANOS seals soon anyway, so why not do it now! The ECU update seems to be the fix. If it doesn't fix the problem, have them do it again...only correctly! If that doesn't work, demand a new ECU like one of these guys had to do. Good luck!
Here is your answer...straight from BMW: http://www.employees.org/~amoeba/img/SIB121705.pdf Looks like rerprogramming the DME is the answer! Take this bulletin with you to the stealership!
Am I right in thinking the ECU update would be done at no cost to me but I would probably have to pay for a new VANOS unit? My car is out of warranty. If I have to pay for the VANOS I might try having a Dr. Vanos unit installed by an independant tech. The VANOS rattle is not very bad at this point.
Sorry to tell you, but the ECU update is not covered out of warranty or under the CPO warranty. The software update would have been covered under the regular warranty. You can try pushing the issue with your dealer, but the odds are against you. This has been a known issue for a long time. It's too bad whoever owned the car during the warranty period didn't get it taken care of.
It strikes me as just... weird..... that the ZHP in particular has such issues. just from aggressive cams and tweaked software for an extra 10 ponies? what the hell! I have an e46 (ZSP, not ZHP) and it has been flawless. I feel for the ZHP guys. Since the ZHP guys are likely CCA members (aka: enthusiasts) it would be interesting to tabulate how many owners have this issue...
Had the same problem. Dealer was unaware until I provided the BMW service bulletin date. Had ECM sent to BMWNA for reprogramming. Had to do it 2 times but now it is gone. Was covered by original warranty even though the actual repair was after warranty ran out as I had brought it in with the problem earlier.
I got the new software for free under the emissions warrenty (8/80). I had to show it to the SA in the warranty booklet.
I found what you're talking about in the warranty booklet. I just bought a 2003 ZHP with 43k miles and I want to get the software update. Can you tell me exactly how you used the warranty booklet? Did you call the dealership or did you go there in person and talk to the service advisor? Is that the person to talk to? Not the service manager? What did you say exactly? Thanks.
