I'm afraid I'm losing her...

[liquidgraphix]

My '98 ti...it seems as though we've been through so much. Ideally, I would take her to the best mechanic and fix everything that is wrong with her, but realistically, it's just monetarily impossible.

I took her to get the state inspection sticker and first thing they told me, "Our computer can't read your car's computer"...I brought it to my mechanic and he told me that there are wires missing and to bring it to the dealership, since they have more sophisticated tools.

Next, I recently started to have trouble steering, it's really hard to turn the wheel. I thought I might need steering fluid. I brought it to my mechanic, he said it wasn't the fluid, that was fine, it was the entire steering column that was the problem. He told me to bring it to the dealership blah blah blah.

My radio keeps coming in and out, and I have to keep entering the code to have it play. Seems like there's a wire loose or something.

The driver side window doesn't work well. There's a little piece inside the door that broke, that holds the arms in place.

In summary, I think it's time for a new car...I still wondering what I should do though. Winter is on it's way. I thought I would have this car for a lot longer.

[pnosker]

the radio and window problem are easy to fix

the window, all you have to do is go to dealership, get 2 plastic pieces for $16 or so, switch them out, and that's it.

[DustenT]

The OBD2 plug is under the dash, there is a wiring harness that plugs into that plug. It probably came disconnected, or someone took the panel off and forgot to plug it back in. All of these are easy fixes.

Check your power steering fluid. I've never heard of an ENTIRE steering column "going bad".

[aceyx]

There are two very good BMW mechanics in your area. Foreign Motors West does good work and there is another independent shop I can't remember the name of.

When it's time to put her down . . . get a second opinion!

[liquidgraphix]

I went to this foreign auto place in Haverhill, I'll have to look into foreign motors west, thanks.

It's actually the steering rack, not the column, sorry.

I don't want to lose my girl either, that car is my first car too. Thanks for the info guys.

[vwt3]

Don't give up hope on steering rack not that expensive for a rebuilt one, seals went out on mine and would lose fluid till it would make all kinda noise.
Not to bad to change for a doit you self type of guy even a independent shop would be less expensive then the dealer for sure. Car will have to have a alinement. On the window along with the clips make sure the felt strips are in the window channels to keep window from rocking back and forth.I think if glass is rocking it puts pressure on the clips and bends the arms the clips are attached to.

[liquidgraphix]

thanks for the info VWT3
good news for me I have an appointment to bring it in to the dealership after the holidays