3 Things You Shouldn’t Be Doing to Your BMW

3 Things You Shouldn’t Be Doing to Your BMW - Motorwerkes - BMW Maintenance Experts Calgary

Some BMW drivers out there have better maintenance habits than others. You may think that an aspect of your vehicle or a problem you’re encountering is insignificant, but that’s how things start to get out of hand. Let’s take a look at some habits that are bound to get you into trouble.

Ignore Your Tire Pressure

Some maintenance habits are more related to the mechanical integrity, and others are more related to safety. Tire pressure is one thing that is closely tied in with both. Despite its importance, it’s one factor that drivers ignore or forget about the most. If you don’t check your tire pressure and keep it at the right level, you’re asking for a shorter life on those tires you invested in and, in the worst-case scenario, a shorter life for you and your passengers. The tire pressure monitoring system in your BMW should be paid attention to not only for the sake of tire pressure itself, but because it could indicate a puncture.

Drive When Overheated

As we move closer to the heat of summer, it’s a good idea to bear in mind the health of your engine. This is especially true for older BMW models, but regardless of age, you should always pay attention to your heat gauge and respond to it accordingly. If you continue to drive when overheated, this will cause a lot of extra wear and tear to your engine. Keep extra coolant on hand, as this can be a lifesaver if you realize you’re in dire need of a refill. Depending on the circumstances, however, the problem could be worse. A coolant leak, for instance, will need immediate attention from a mechanic.

Avoid Routine Maintenance

Of all the things that you shouldn’t be doing to your BMW, this is one of the most important. Why? Because falling behind on routine scheduled maintenance can lead to the above problems and so many more. From fluid changes and top-ups to brake checks, tire rotation, and more, a comprehensive and consistent maintenance schedule is the lifeblood of a healthy vehicle. Neglecting these vital procedures will mean higher costs down the line and a BMW that isn’t working up to its full potential. You drive one of the best cars on the road, it deserves to be taken care of by a certified technician!

If you’re guilty of any of the above, you’re not alone. Teaming up with a local BMW specialist will make the task of caring for your BMW easier than it’s ever been. And don’t forget that Motorwerkes has a price match guarantee! Call us at (403) 453-0269 to find out more today.

Looking for a Used Mini? Certified Pre-Owned Is Worth Considering

Looking for a Used Mini? Certified Pre-Owned Is Worth Considering - Motorwerkes - Dinan and Active Autowerke Software Tunings

Buying a used car can be an excellent option for anyone who wants a quality vehicle at a bargain price. That is, as long as you choose wisely. It’s not always easy finding the best deal for your money when buying from strangers, but a certified pre-owned MINI is a tempting option.

What Does CPO Mean?

There are many ways to get a used vehicle today. Some purchase them via local classified ads, some from friends or relatives, and many even through eBay. What these methods have in common is that you very often don’t know what you’re getting, even if the original owner is someone you know and trust. Certified pre-owned vehicles have been used by a previous driver, but are being resold through the original manufacturer rather than between two unaffiliated parties. A CPO program is a way for a vehicle manufacturer to offer top-condition models priced lower than they would be if brand new.

Key Advantages

Getting a pre-owned MINI from the manufacturer itself sounds well and dandy, but what exactly does the process entail? Firstly, used MINIs are hand-selected according to higher standards than you’d get otherwise. Before they’re put back into the market, they undergo a thorough and extensive refurbishment process, particularly in terms of functionality. If any part replacement is needed, this is done with genuine OEM parts, and various testing procedures are carried out by certified MINI technicians. You’ll also get MINI’s certified pre-owned limited warranty, 24/7 roadside assistance, and it’s guaranteed to be under 5 years old.

Things to Keep in Mind

While a CPO MINI can offer you great quality and longevity as a competitive price point, as with even the best of deals, there are considerations to be aware of. A CPO limited warranty can be a great advantage over what you get with a non-certified used vehicle, but the warranty is added to the original sale date of the vehicle when it was purchased new. It will also require a $50 deductible for repairs. Never forget that no warranty is perfect, and the earlier you establish a great relationship with an independent BMW specialist, the longer your CPO MINI will provide you with an excellent driving experience!

If a MINI has caught your eye, we can’t blame you. They’re as powerful and efficient as they are classy. As part of the BMW family, they’re covered by all of the services that Motorwerkes offers for BMWs. However you get your MINI, call (403) 453-0269 for the best service in Calgary!

Understanding BMW Software

Understanding BMW Software - Motorwerkes - Dinan and Active Autowerke Software Tunings

Most of the time we think of our vehicles as mechanical machines, using fuel and other fluids to keep a massive number of parts in motion. However, modern vehicles have a considerable amount of digital technology at their core. BMW software is one of the best examples out there.

Terminology and Functions

When we say “BMW software” we can be referring to a number of different things, so it’s important to be specific. Digital Motor Electronics is a term used to broadly describe the system of digital information that governs your BMW’s engine. The devices that make this happen are called a Engine Control Units. A complex system of sensors deliver data to an ECU on a constant basis and use that data to regulate functions like air-fuel ratio, idle speed, valve timing, and more. When in good shape and properly calibrated, it keeps performance efficient and reliable in terms of fuel economy and many other factors.

The Importance of Updates

Devices like smartphones and laptops require updates all the time to function as designed. In some ways, your BMW is similar. The types of updates you’ll need to administer will address media software functionality. While not directly related to your engine software, these optimize integration of mobile devices for media playback and wireless charging, not to mention onboard internet connectivity and other related functions. Media software updates can be performed by drivers, but updates to your engine software are only required in very particular circumstances and should be done by a certified technician.

Performance Options

If BMW’s DME system manages and controls your engine, can it also enhance those functions? We’re glad you asked. Software tuning is one of the most popular types of performance upgrade out there. The two biggest and best names in the business are Dinan and Active Autowerke. You should go with these names not only for the sake of quality, but for the sake of safety, as improper modification of factory software can be dangerous and damaging to your vehicle. If you want to unleash more power for your BMW, you shouldn’t settle for anything less than the best, and software is no exception!

Is all of your BMW software up to date? How about a performance upgrade? The Motorwerkes team is just as knowledgeable in this aspect of your BMW as any other. We’re an official dealer for both Dinan and Active Autowerke software tunings, so call (403) 453-0269 to learn more!

Did You Know We Have a Price Match Guarantee?

Did You Know We Have a Price Match Guarantee? - Motorwerkes - BMW Maintenance Experts Calgary

Every BMW specialist shop “knows” that they provide the best service, but how many are willing to do what it takes to demonstrate it? Sometimes you have to show your community that no one does it better than you, and the Motorwerkes’ price match guarantee helps us do exactly that!

How It Works

Motorwerkes isn’t the only shop in town working on BMWs, but we’ve worked hard to become the best. Whether you’re in need of repairs, maintenance, upgrades, or other services on your vehicle, it’s important to be absolutely sure you’re working with someone who is motivated to price their work competitively and give you the best value out there. If you take your BMW to one of our competitors to get an estimate for the work you need done, and that estimate is dated within the last 30 days, we can not only match the offer, but we’ll beat it by 10%. This isn’t a substitute for good service, it’s an effort to give you the deal you deserve!

Is Your Quote Eligible?

There are a few things to keep in mind when obtaining a quote and bringing it to us to have it matched. It should come from competitor who is local, and this can be any shop specializing in BMW, MINI, or German/European car service. If you’re hoping to get a price match for parts, they should be identical, and if those parts are aftermarket, they’ll need to be manufactured by either Active Autowerke or Dinan. The process of attaining a price match will involve a conversation with our team to make sure that all the requirements are met and that we can provide you with the best pricing and service possible.

Our Commitment to You

Over the years, Motorwerkes has been fortunate enough to serve BMW owners across Calgary, and more recently MINI owners as well. As our family of clients grows, we’re always doubling down on our efforts to uphold a commitment of true quality and competitive pricing for the local BMW and MINI community. Some service shops might assemble a team of BMW-certified experts only to reserve their skill and experience for a select few of the BMW and MINI lovers in the city. That’s not how we work! Our team believes that an excellent vehicle deserves excellent parts and maintenance at the right price.

Motorwerkes knows what Calgary BMW lovers expect from a BMW-certified team. We don’t just meet those expectations, we exceed them. Curious to see if an estimate you’ve received from one of our competitors will qualify for a price match? Call us at (403) 453-0269 to find out today!

Dinan: A Respected Name in BMW and MINI Performance Parts

Dinan: A Respected Name in BMW and MINI Performance Parts - Motorwerkes - BMW Maintenance Experts Calgary

Few vehicles respond to performance upgrades better than BMWs and MINIs. What could be better than enhancing a legendary vehicle with parts manufactured to the highest standard? This is what you get with Dinan, the latest addition to our roster of performance part vendors.

Taking Things Up a Notch

When you’ve bought a new BMW or MINI fresh from the dealership, or even a used one from a previous owner who has reluctantly let it go, you’ve already got a lot of power and control at your fingertips. Still, the great thing about automobiles is that there’s always a way to enhance your driving experience. Whether it’s for a bit of fun or for more technical reasons, performance upgrades can set you apart from the rest and make that standard factory vehicle something to truly call your own. However, with so many different manufacturers out there offering aftermarket parts, the possibilities can be a bit overwhelming.

Excellence and Experience

You’ll inevitably have to narrow things down to a few different companies when choosing your upgrades. Given it’s extensive history in the industry and a reputation to be reckoned with, Dinan will probably be one of them. Whether you’re looking for electronic components, exhaust upgrades, engine-related upgrades, or software tuning, Dinan has been a major player in providing these and more since 1979. Not only do they produce excellent products that have been rigorously tested in high-performance environments, they also boast a warranty program that’s hard to beat, as your upgrades will be covered for up to 4 years or 50,000 miles.  

The Right Parts Make All the Difference

Taking the step from OEM to aftermarket enhancement is an exciting moment, but it shouldn’t be taken lightly. BMW vehicles have a pedigree that can only be matched with a certain level of quality when it comes to the parts that you install in them, not to mention a warranty that won’t compromise that of the vehicle itself. When you go to your BMW-certified technician to have an upgrade installed, cutting corners and going with inferior substitutes will only lead to more headaches later on down the road. You should always be certain that their vendors are reputable names, and Dinan is among the best!

Not only is Motorwerkes now a certified Dinan dealer, you can count on us for a price match guarantee on their upgrades. Bring in a local competitor’s estimate for any Dinan or Active Autowerke parts and we won’t just meet it, we’ll beat it by 10%. Call (403) 453-0269 for details!