Noise @ 4000RPM

[Cats_fender]

HI everyone, Im new!
Bought my BMW 318i R reg.
Its in good condition and seems to be running great, however when im on the motorway and my speed creeps up to 80mph or 4000 revs, theres a noise breifly until i pass 80. Then it goes. Sounds almost like the exhaust rattling but as far as i can make out its comin from the front? Is this normal?
Also the little coloured display under the mileage counter, whats that for?
And does the air conditioning need any 'topping up' or servicing?
Lots of questions i know but, like i said im new!
thanx!!!

Cat

 

[Irus]

Hi Cat

Not sure what the noise is but may be able to help on the other questions:

1) Little coloured display under the mileage counter - if it's green, yellow and red lights then it's probably your service indicator - does it come on when you first start the engine and then go off?

Green Lights: The fewer that are on, the sooner the next service is due.
Yellow: Oil Service / Inspection Due
Red: Service Overdue

The dealer will reset the indicator when they service the car (if you service the vehicle yourself you can buy the reset equipment for a couple of quid on eBay).

2) Air con not working - does the fan blow but the air doesn't get cold - if so you may need to replace the air compressor. - I don't know if this is a big job as it was done as part of a major service (inspection 2) on my car when I first bought it – there is a full unit including the compressor for sale on ebay (uk) at the moment with two days to run – current bid £5.

Hope this helps

 

[Cats_fender]

Well thank you for your reply. It does help to know what that little coloured indicator is for.I think mine has 2 green at the moment so i shall be keeping an eye on it!
At the moment my air conditioning is blowing cold but i was worried in case it was something that needed replacing quite often. However i shall go and check out that air compressor on ebay!


thanks!

Cat

 

[andreyiv]

I don't think there is anything that needs to be replaced periodically in the HVAC system at all, well, except maybe for the cabin filter. People recomend turning on the AC at least once a month though, in order for the seals to stay fresh. Thats about it though.

Heres a PDF on how to change that filter: http://www.mann-hummel.com/mf_prodkata_all/einbau/HBJPN0FbufV.pdf

Also, the following site might help you save a lot of money: http://www.geocities.com/e36rulz/DIY.html

Enjoy the car and check the exhaust mounts, they dry up and break with time.

 

[Cats_fender]

Thanks! those links are very helpful!

Cat

 

[andreyiv]

No problem, enjoy the car.