325is questions: Grassroots Motorsports forum: Grassroots Motorsports Magazine

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Aug. 25, 2010 8:32 a.m. 2.0dohc Reader

Ok, so I am a sucker for punishment and I'm cheap...now that you know that...

I, like every one else here, cruise Craigslist for deals and came across a listing for a 94 325is. Cheaper price could be fun, but the add has this line in it

"and has a bad idle, possibly O2 sensor. If you start motor when cold it will die with in a second, if you let it warm up it will just sit there with a erratic idle."

so keyboard trouble shooters what do you think? I asked if the check engine light was on. Maybe big vacuum leak? Bad MAF(or are these map cars?)?
Aug. 25, 2010 8:35 a.m. Lugnut HalfDork

It could be just as simple as a dirty idle control valve.
Aug. 25, 2010 8:42 a.m. Ian F Dork

Agreed. It seems flaky IAC valves are common on E30's and E36's.
Aug. 25, 2010 9:43 a.m. 2.0dohc Reader

cool, looks like that's a clean and reinstall part

thanks
Aug. 25, 2010 9:58 a.m. motomoron Reader

Check compression and leakdown - if it's ok then anything else is accessible from the outside.

Assume that it needs a complete cooling system and every single solitary bushing in the F+R suspension. It probably will need a Guibo (flex coupling from trans output to driveshaft) and a hundred instrument cluster and dash bulbs. The headliner will droop, all exterior trim will need replacement or little easily broken nylon clips.

realoem.com is your friend for parts lookup.

bimmerforums.com has a lot of info, much of which is uselesss. The track/autocross/racing forum is good though.

Pelican parts, Bimmerworld, Turner Motorsports all are good for piece parts.
Aug. 25, 2010 10:20 a.m. 2002maniac HalfDork

Could be a vacuum leak. Whatever it is i bet it's a simple fix. BMWs are pretty easy to work on.