What Does It Take To Own A BMW?

In this video I show you what equipment and tools I recommend that you own to keep your BMW on the road. I cover my ownership experience on my E90 335i with the N54 engine. If you're considering buying a used BMW and are not sure what tools you may need to be able to work on it your self at home this video will cover all that.
I briefly discuss how to interface with E series, F Series and G Series BMWs.
In this video I also update you on the break in on my 2021 BMW M3 Competition with the S58 engine.
In my opinion owning a BMW does not have to be costly, used cars can be had for a fraction of what they go for new. The best value can be found by the DIYer that doesn't mind wrenching on their car to save some money.
If you've ever wondered if a BMW requires a bunch of specialty tools to maintain you'll get that answered in this video.
If you'd like to purchase the magnetic spark plug socket I covered in this video you can do so here (affiliate):
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The 140 ft/lb torque stick can be found here (affiliate):
amzn.to/3fL3pBv
The jack pad adapters (affiliate):
amzn.to/2Pxz0M7
Interior Trim Clips (affiliate):
amzn.to/2PUpJxs
If this is the first video you are catching of mine please consider subscribing.
I upload regularly.
Thanks for watching :)
When you see the word "affiliate" listed beside any link in my description please know that this is a custom link and I will earn a small commission if you opt to purchase using said link. This is at no extra cost to you so it's a win all around :) Thank you!

[@saganworshipper6062]

This is the REAL BMW "doctor".

[@friguy4444]

I agree! I don't care for the BMW Doc as he seems to me to be so arrogant or maybe it's just he's so insecure that he feels he needs to be so aggressive with everything. IMHO.

[@saganworshipper6062]

@@friguy4444 He does a whole lot of talking and not really any wrenching. Also, he is a rude prick.

[@saganworshipper6062]

@senzlez senzlez Well that does not surprise me in the slightest. He seems like he's all jacked up on the marching powder literally every video I've ever seen of him. Wicked narcissistic personality disorder.

[@TheRealToybox]

My father was a bmw enthusiast. Luckily I’ve inherited not only his tools but his knowledge

[@ThePucko97]

What does it take? Knowledge. Knowledge about service, knowledge about not getting screwed over by the stealership and knowledge about doing expensive things custom

[@robhughes8516]

@@NUNYABIZNNAAAZZZ that is #1

[@roberthatley7415]

I have an immense amount of respect for this man. His humble and kind demeanor truly shines through as he takes us alongside his amazing hobby so we might be able to have one of our own as well. I would pay money for so many of his how to guides and yet he takes time to plan, shoot, edit and upload these videos as a labor of love.

[@VehicularDIY]

Thank you!

[@messii5oh506]

would you mind sharing more of yourself, I found that first half very interesting. i would like to see what got you into cars.

[@VehicularDIY]

Sure I'll see about that in future videos.

[@autoSRI]

We know your hands very well and I’ve spent many many hours watching your videos even stuff il likely never do (f30 stuff) and I think it would be cool to learn a little more about the voice behind those hands

[@kent570253]

@@VehicularDIY I'm a tech y trade, used to be a BMW tech and I'm also very interested in your electronic stuff.

[@uisperfectemail9720]

I just realized that besides getting the M3 to get an M3, congrats btw✊🏻; you are also setting yourself up as a DIY KZbin legend for that car too. Long live this channel!

[@aidanhunter6195]

I'm 20 and I decided to buy an e90 this summer, there's a lot of mechanical knowledge in the family, so I'm pretty excited to finally get into it myself. Thanks for this useful video!

[@VehicularDIY]

Best of luck!

[@pissupehelwan]

Nice video. I am not a hardcore DIYer like you but I do all standard maintenance on my BMW myself including fluid changes, brake pads, rotors, new struts & shocks, oil filter housing gasket, valve cover gasket replacement etc....what I'd call small-to-medium type of stuff in terms of difficulty level. I have most of the tools you had on this video. I have a standalone magnetic torque angle thingy that I can slap on to any wrench to measure torque angle - I find that quite handy. I wanted to buy a Tesla next but the fact that you can't do diddly-squat in terms of DIY is quite depressing. There's a lot of joy and satisfaction in doing things yourself. Those who are unable or unwilling to roll up their sleeves and turn a wrench will never understand that.

[@tonykari5124]

I usually wait about 4 yrs before I buy my 7 series BMW and usually after a small tune up or break pad change they r good for another 5 yrs. Trick is to buy them 4 yrs old since they depreciate by up to 70% in price. So u buy a 100k car for 36k. & YES, u gotta be handy enough to do half of the work yourself as far as maintenance goes

[@Mike4444x]

You could have started and stopped with, “I replaced my own engine” and I would have been sold on anything else you would have said. Funny but true. Good job man....👍

[@cupompa]

I saved $6,819.64 DIYing! Nearing a year of ownership with my daily driven 08' N54 E93 and I've only put in $162.39 extra. I'll be servicing the diff and trans in the summer myself with Castrol Syntrax 75W-90 & Febi Bilstein 38935.

[@freddywiththek1908]

I’ve always loved the e90 generation of bmw but was always drawn away from ever getting one as you hear a lot about the problems with this generation. But the older I’ve gotten I’ve learned more and more about cars and also gained the confidence to work on my own car no matter what the task is thanks to channels like this

[@oscarxms]

Another fantastic video. Have most of these, and most definitely fundamental to work on your BMW, and do most of the maintenance yourself. Use a INDY shop for things that you may feel are out of your comfort zone. For me, clutch replacement, and definitely things like timing chain, etc. Everyone that complains about how expensive German cars are to maintain, is because they rely on dealers or Indy shops for every little thing. Besides, if you want the job to be done right, DO IT YOURSELF!

[@legioner9]

That E90 LCI looks gorgeous. Superb design it has.

[@twinturbo8304]

If it wasn't for your videos I would not attempt to work on my 08 335. I already have most of those tools being a mechanic most of my life. My downfall is I'm not electronic savvy. Being 73 years old electronics not coming usually easily.

[@Nico_335i_DCT]

If I could not do the maintenance myself, I wasn't able to drive a BMW. So I'm very glad YTers like you make videos to help us, keep driving this awesome brand! Thanks for sharing. Dutch regards, Nico.

[@trevorsutherland5263]

Holy crap man! I got my first BMW in 1995; a 1992 525i. Drove it five years not a single problem then sold it to a buddy and bought new 2000 323Ci, drove it 5 years never had a problem. WTH happened with BMW that you have to be an automotive engineer to safely own one now???

[@SteveWeltman]

Musa is my DIY hero! This guy researches and posts better than anyone on the E9x platform YT DIY list. Extremely talented, practical, insightful and mostly straight forward with his servicing techniques. I am thankful for his posts like this one (except, I am a tool collector and have way too many gadgets and tools already).

[@SteveWeltman]

@michealwinter scammer, buzz off.

[@pnum9618]

i rebuilt my 95 m3 S50 learned alot now im taking care of a 2011 135i DIY all of it from internet your content is precise and to the point makes it easy to understand thank you

[@jlrosine]

I'm a software engineer now but I grew up working on Nissan Zs among other cars, tinkering with my dad in the garage. I now tinker/fix cars to get away from the desk and I love it, it's part of my therapy (and I never lost my need for speed and torque). There's something very enjoyable about mechanical + electrical engineering that is tangible. Great to hear part of your story and why you do what you do.

[@drdeni]

I already done some things on mine BMW to it's not difficult. And I will done some things o my BMW e90 in the future to.

[@TajwarC]

I would say the definition of self maintainence differs astonishingly between the UK and US. We don't typically have garages in our houses and the most the average car enthusiast will do here is an oil/filter change, maybe things like coils/plugs/gaskets. Turbos are also more difficult to access here as the steering rack is in the way. It's interesting how easy DIY for you guys could literally mean hanging the engine whereas here its changing the oil lol. But yeah in general you American guys are far ahead of us when it comes to maintaining and modifying these cars, its the same reason everyone here uses MHD and rarely go to custom tuners, we just aren't up to speed

[@zeroblade9800]

I'm far from having BMW but the dream is strong. Saved this for later when I'll finally be in a position to gather these items. Great vid!

[@cheerfulone8030]

I understand better bang for used car but also good to reward yourself with a new car at times....beautiful M3! Congrats!! Black grill blends nicely with black paint....

[@mazboost]

Great video mate! I've recently taken my car from stock to FBO inlets/outlets/pump, lines and E50 tune on a RHD car and I couldn't have done it without the level of detail you go into. Much love from Australia.

[@Areku06]

💯 I buy all my bmws used, they are bargains. Because maintenance cost. But I don’t mind wrenching on it myself. I had Mercedes, VWs, volvos, bmws so far my favorite brand. The way they drive even non m cars, just m-sport is unmatched by other brands.

[@julianpark93]

Would love to see a Q&A highlighting a bit around what got you into these cars :)

[@AmyTheShepherd]

This is exactly the kind of video I was hoping for since I have found your channel. I have an E92 335i with the N54 engine and I want to keep it for ever. Videos like yours and especially videos like this help a ton!!! Thank you so much. I really appreciate it. Greetings from Germany Bavaria

[@VehicularDIY]

Happy to make it!

[@kennynguyen2651]

Amazing I have 90% of those tools specifically for my 2007 335i.

[@Reno17]

I been working on my BMW since 2011 have most of the tools you recommend but what I really want is your knowledge......your the best BMW KZbinr hands down! Keep it up

[@NickGorkes]

ISTA can be used on E series vehicles with a K can cable. All of the software shown can be run on a Windows 10 modern laptop.

[@lnn7439]

Pro tip 1: To easily remove plastic connectors push IN first. Then trigger the release and pull out. Your welcome. Pro tip 2: Replace the OEM hose clamps with similar 8mm aftermarket hose clamps. OEM can become very time consuming and PITA

[@antanasrapkevicius3897]

disagree on the clamps. OEM hose clamps are so easy to use and look so neat compared to any aftermarket "screwable" ones. All you need is side cutters to remove them and then special pliers to press new ones on. Can get these pliers from BMW for like 15 quid

[@bg-se7rq]

Watched all these diy vids.. Appreciate u bro!! My 575+ hp N54 ..all u man. I never would’ve done the shz if not for ur vids 🙏🔥🏃‍♂️

[@franciscopasallo396]

I have every tool you recommend, except I have standard Torque Wrenches. 22 years Aircraft Mechanic. Where do I use my Pneumatic rivet gun, LOL! Thanks for the overview, and encouragement.

[@efthimios]

Your a genius, truly one of the best bmw dyi channels! Bravo 👏 I’m here for my 2011 335 xdrive with 65k miles

[@VehicularDIY]

Thanks!

[@tominfhl]

I want this guy as a friend, neighbor, brother lol.

[@garyvanremortel5218]

I also recommend having a rechargeable Nathan LED headlamp, Tesa Fleece loom tape and a gasket hole punch kit.

[@Fungustus1]

Best BMW DIY content hands down. Thanks for the tips on the tools, great for embarking on my newly acquired n54 :) wish me luck... Oh wait! Luck won't be needed with your DIY guides!

[@willhikearizona]

I was able to use a K+Dcan cable with a USB to USB C adapter to connect to my phone, and use bimmertool to connect to my car. Not sure all you can do with that, but I was able to read and clear codes with it.

[@camposjesus3725]

There's a reason you see tons of E90 generation BMW's still on the road. Especially the N51/N52 ones. The n51 has insane dealership warranty something like 15 years or 150,000 miles. My 2010 E93 328i (N51) at 119k is still going strong with zero issues!

[@dwaynebolan2583]

Thank you. I cant wait for the F30 content

[@rustymilk3394]

was spending more money on repairs than my monthly payments for my 335i, was upset until I decided to learn myself to fix it up. That feeling of something breaking but you fix it and see it working again feels great and learning along the way. Still nervous for when major fixes will be needed hopefully ill have enough experience by than :)

[@Blizzle502]

Once again going above and beyond for the people. Much appreciated sir. Thorough and exact.

[@anthonygillesse7242]

Hi I wrench my two cars 530xi wagon and a Z4 e86 coupe and your right on the money with your selection of tools. Looks like you stole my tool box

[@didierc.7653]

AWESOME VIDEO! Thanks from a beginner DIYer. I'm going to start tuning my f30 335 so I need to prep my garage and this is the exact type of info I've been looking for. Subbed + liked...maybe also because of the g80 I've also been eyeing. Cmon depreciation ;)

[@javarithms]

I own 2 2003 530i in addition to an E92 M3 and the best tool by far I bought was my 2-post lift. I also did an auto to manual swap and it was a breeze doing it on the lift. The lift has already paid for itself. I can't recommend it enough if you have the garage and space.

[@brianbailey7128]

More good information. As a KZbin car guy I've followed the advice of never reused the aluminum bolts but never new why until now.

[@tonymontana897]

I have to say a big thank you for this channel, because it is one of a few I actually like. No pretentiousness here and the content is of high quality. I have learned so much from being here and you inspire confidence in others. Well done Sir.

[@filipwennergren2712]

As a BMW owner (330i) this is KING! Thanks a lot!

[@lotsofcurveslover]

Pretty sure you went from being a DIY’er to being a BMW mechanic some time ago. The difference is that you could open your own BMW shop and make a good living at it.

[@Bitaliktderr]

Great video once again sir! Best DIY channel on KZbin by far!🙌🏻

[@jazzyt5141]

I 100% approve your tools list!! I already have almost all basics tools in your list since I have a 135i (2nd one ;) ) One thing I would say because 135i and 335 are pretty low from factory, you can only use some homemade wood ramps with 2x 2X6 and your are ok to insert a standard jack in the front and install ur jackstand after. Thanks for your constant great content, N54 love to you!!!

[@mapp0v0]

I would suggest Bosch 26-Piece Screwdriver Bit and Ratchet Set

[@philiplee7604]

What a great list! ... you are a true professional!

[@krisgriffin9090]

Another quality upload. 👌 thanks man. Never disappointed.

[@rramirez2859]

I just bought a not running 06 530xi for 1300 that was running and now I'm wondering if I made a mistake. You have tons of knowledge and evolved if I could run my car situation by you...

[@catvisimo]

hey man, I've been watching your videos for about 4 years, just wanted to say i appreciate the videos and the helpful explanations on the diys, cheers

[@VehicularDIY]

Thanks for watcing!

[@jlongshort4045]

Your the best for diys and i appreciate ur hard work💪

[@friguy4444]

DUDE! YOU ROCK! The only thing I think is missing from your E90 335i is an LSD. But maybe I just haven't seen that video yet and you just didn't mention it. LOL. IMHO anyways. Love your channel!

[@hashjoshua7085]

Man you are an inspiration never seen a so complete DIY on a bimmer keep up man

[@mwdh]

I'm happy to say that I have 90% of the stuff you showed. I would add a headlamp which I'm using always since I used it once. (... aaaand brake cleaner, ceramic spray, good gloves, wd-40, vacuum pump, compressor, ...) :D

[@abgingernuts]

Depending who's worked on your car previously, HELICOILS!!!!! And a right angle drill adapter

[@masriwahab3297]

Good job man. This is just a must have tools for bmw diy owners. Thanks.

[@wonderamalandfamilyfuncent2689]

GREAT VIDEO! can't find 140lb torge socket anywhere

[@DuckMcDuckinson]

I have a 2015 BMW 428i and I wish I changed the HPFP and motor mounts myself. I’m about to change my spark plugs and coils on it by myself though.

[@HighOcktaneRacing]

Would definitely like a full dedicated video of tools, seems like you shown just a brief intro to the ones you need to use but would definitely look forward to one if it comes 🤝

[@federicotorresbordils7624]

You missed spark plugs 14mm bi-exagonal with 12 threads. Anyway awesome as usual for any DIYer BimmerN53

[@user-oe4bz9tw9e]

this video is so good, thank you for making quality videos they are more helpful than you know

[@drunklunchbox619]

I havent watched as many of your videos as some of the other guys.. but you're honestly my favorite. For some reason I don't feel like there's any doubt or skepticism in what you're conveying. Nathan isn't too bad in that regard, either. I have no fear when it comes to the mechanical/wiring side of things. I have messed around with NCS a tiny bit. When I get the time to dedicate to learning the programs, I 100% will be coming to your channel for help. Anyways, thanks for doing what you do. Keep it up

[@Icantbelievethisshit]

Great channel, been looking for an older M3 project so maintenance cost was definitely in my mind.

[@Koolicyde]

You will need to set up INPA if you want to code your injectors - although it can be done with an app... it's much more expensive that way. (Protool by bimmergeeks)

[@tomasis7]

i appreciate such a video. I recently changed the ABS pump, both fuel pump, and regulator. So far I done with standard tools :D

[@ericvermeulen9853]

I just had a laugh now this is exactly what i have in my tool inventory all mixed and special stuff especially when you mentioned the universal joint that’s taped up 😀😀 so glad you made this because I thought at one stage my tools are all mixed ups but now i feel better about my colorful tool inventory thanks for the great videos man 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@VehicularDIY]

Haha nice, yeah I literally have pulled engines and torn them apart and transmission swapped etc with the hand tools I've shown. Only other tool I can think of is a 50mm wrench adapter to pull my differential.

[@osagyefoghanaba]

Another must save video for the future....thank you and God bless👍🏿

[@matthewzajda8854]

This video is spot on! I have several of these tools. Even the timing kit which I had to use on my 2011 E90.

[@joyroc885]

I'm pretty confident in doing mechanic things. Electronic is where my fault lies. LOL I can't even get INPA working.

[@machtschnell7452]

Good revue of necessary tools.

[@jayjwin1178]

you have tools more than my BMW service center.

[@josephiosefa6972]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge! I am willing.

[@sunnohh]

You should cover the costs of the new car too!

[@tecitez16]

Coming from the Honda community building engines I thought I had everything I needed, lol nope. This video will save you time. At some point if you work on your own stuff you'll need these tools. Excellent video.

[@VehicularDIY]

Thanks!

[@matt_h537]

“Someone” still has that compression tester kit...eek. Side bar don’t buy a harbor freight compression test kit. Make sure you purchase a quality compression test kit.

[@aruekca18det]

Hi. As always excellent content. Would you update the description with the cables for ISTA with links to buy? Thanks!

[@johnwilliam8366]

Not getting my garage dirty with parts.... When my 2021 BMW G82 M4 arrives... I'm driving it only on Saturday and Sunday. Most of the time it will be covered up in the garage.

[@ghostwrench2292]

Don't cover it. Car covers scratch the paint. Just keep a good coat of wax on it.

[@johnwilliam8366]

@@ghostwrench2292 car will be detailed with PPF... sunny southern California...

[@kent570253]

1:20, OK, now you have my attention.

[@korencek]

the new bmws look great.

[@aarondostou3888]

Excellent information

[@persiancucumber9255]

thanks

[@stoss-11]

Such a good video, great thumbnail to man 🤙🏼

[@mcgyverb1664]

Truly amazing.

[@phild5813]

Dude, I wish I could do all that stuff myself............

[@radoslavgg]

Thank you !

[@MrMichele1070]

Where you live , love to have you as my neighbor my 2011 X3 28i N52 engine would have needed you , 94000 miles and many visit to the dealer , plus I have 2016 M235 convertible Tuned

[@darklegion7780]

I saw people than work 2 jobs in order to buy an expensive car and then didn't have the money for the maintenance.

[@DrummerBoii1411]

Such a good video. Thanks man. If you can, can you give a few words to explain why Audi coils are better than the stock bmw coils? ✌️✌️

[@jozuba]

I work at bmw in switzerland. I would like to buy an m3 but here the basicprice is round about 130.000CHf ~ 110000€ for the cs 😭😭😭

[@AgSherr]

Great stuff! 3:33...I loved that HP laptop when I had one, but that graphics card kept tweaking out on me. What about CARLY for diagnostic purposes?

[@Industrial_Mechanic]

Awesome video. Just subscribed.

[@bryanbair6508]

Great video! Thx for info. I own a 2014 x5 35i. Question: You ever consider doing like “tele-mechanic” work for other bmw diyers?

[@thatinvasivemom]

Could you do a video on how to improve the feel of shifting with the manual transmission, on the older car there?