Hello, I am a proud owner of 2003 Cooper CVT, 7K miler at this moment. I have few questions/problems, please help me out if you can.

1. I am 99% sure that the redline used to change from 5.5K to 6K RPMs (red light on RPM gage changed). I assume that was happening when the engine got warm. Now that's not happening. Am I wrong about redline change? If not, what might be the problem?

2. Sometimes when I drive, I hear a one-time electronic "ding" sound. I have no idea what it means. It happens randomly, not at a specific speed or anything like that. I have a navigation system and I notice that when that "ding" sounds, the outside temperature number blinks. What can that sound mean?

3. Two days ago, I pulled into the parking lot, put the CVT in Park position and let go of the brake. I didn't turn off the car right away and after it idled for about 30 seconds, RPMs started to jump in the range 0.5K and 1K and the car was shaking a little. Moreover, I heard electric motor noises from engine bay, similar to the sound when you turn a steering wheel. AND, at the end of these sounds, I heard a loud metal-like tick, similar to the sound when the metal cools off. :???: What can that be? The next day car seemed to drive fine and it didn't happen again, although RPMs weren't perfectly still at idle.

Thank you very much in advance!

P.S. With my luck, my baby was hit-and-run few weeks ago, not a big deal, just a dent on the fender/hood near the headlight. Can some one reference me a really good body shop in VA/DC/MD area? I hope to get it replaced, not fixed and repainted. Are there any body shops from BMW dealerships?
Thank you so much!

 

First, the redline doesn't change, it's constant. Second, the ding happens either when the temperature hits 37 or is below 37 when you start the car. There are several theories as to why this is, ranging from 37 degrees is when ice can form on the road to 37 was the number used by a champion mini driver in the 60s. I'm not sure about your third problem, but are you using premium gasoline?

 

Welcome Eleni! You are sure to find lots of answers to questions you've not yet even though of here on NAM! Have fun.

As I understand it, most all BMW's ding when started in temps under 38 degrees. So the ice warning is what it's about.

God speed.

 

Thanks so much, I already feel so much better. Yes, I use 93. I guess I'll just mention it to the dealer when I go for next maintenance.

Another quick question, I just moved to VA, Alexandria and surprisingly I can't find a self car washes here. Anybody from this area know any self car washes? Thank you.