'98 750 problems

[EuropaCar]

Hi I recently went through and made a list of all the problems I could think of that need fixing on our 1998 BMW 750iL E38

1) DSC, ABS. The weather has gotten cold recently and when I start the car in the mornings and drive it, the DSC (dynamic stability control) and ABS lights come and stay on, even when the car is warmed up. I know these are computers so I didn't think it could be caused just by cold weather, but it seems this is the case. Since the DSC light flashes when the computer is kicking in (correcting a slide/wheel spin) or stays on when it's off, I tested the car and found that indeed the DSC was not working. However, when I go back to the car after I'm done at school, everything is fine.

2) The suspension squeaks. I've looked online about this and many people offer the solution of spraying something like WD40.. Is there an alternative to this? It is really annoying, for even when I am merely moving to a slightly different-level ground, the suspension lets out a squeak.. Perhaps it's not the suspension, but sound is coming from all four wheel wells.

3) Navigation System. This was working fine until recently the computer stopped recognizing the CD. The central console area was upgraded to a new version widescreen display. When I click Navigation, it says 'please insert a disk..' or something like that. Then when I check the boot, the CD has been ejected.

4) Sunroof. The sunroof itself works fine, but the other part... I'm not sure what you call this, but it's when you raise the roof up to allow ventilation. This part only goes about half-way up, and then stops. I can't really explain the problem or why it's happening, cause there doesn't seem to be something physically blocking the roof.

5) Windows. Aesthetically, the windows are the main problem with this car. We took it to the dealer and they said the problem is due to 'a separation in the lamination between the two panes of glass. It produces a weird blurry effect that appears on all four passenger windows (not the front or rear windshield which i guess are single-pane). There's obviously nothing I can do manually to fix this, but perhaps someone could direct me to a supplier who could replace these double-panes for cheaper than the $1000s the dealer quoted. Or maybe I could pursue this as a manufacturer's defect and get them replaced?

6) Seats. Just one of the controls on the driver's seat is not functioning. It's the one that bends the back of the seat itself. When I click the button, I hear a click, something engaging in the seat, but the seat doesn't move. A long while ago, it was to the point where the control would function sometimes, and then stop, and then while I was driving it would randomly start bending the seat's back all the way forward, forcing me to sit hunch-backed unexpectedly while I was on the beltway... Is there a solution to this (besides replacing the seat)

Many of these problems I know I could easily solve just by taking the car in to the dealer. But as parts are so expensive and the dealer might be trying to rip me off I decided I'd see if there were any quick fixes, before going there. For instance, the dealer told me that to fix the nav. he had to replace the whole computer (about $1000 if i recall correctly). Even the little OBD cover in the central console took like $100 to replace. So any help I could get would be fantastic.

PS these issues don't really affect my driving happiness (except perhaps the squeaks) - the car runs great and I don't even notice/encounter most of these issues when I'm just driving around.

[lincolnmaster80]

1) Don't know if the DSC system uses the ABS sensors, but the first thing that comes to my mind is the ABS sensors cleaned/functioning properly? Some times it can be as simple as this.

2) The squeeky suspension: Not too sure about this, but again, first thing that comes to my mind are old struts/shocks/springs. But signs of old shocks is usually a rattling noise...just givin you some idea's is all. Do wait for a better answer on this one.

3) Can't help ya there, but you might have more luck at The Seven Series Register. Post on the E38 board, ATTN: Petetina, as he did some upgrades on his E38 NAV system just recently. He might be able to help you out. You will have to register for this site...tell them forzabimmer sent you...
http://www.the7seriesregister.co.uk/forums/index.php

4) ???

5) See if there were any recalls on this...you might be able to get them replaced for FREEEEE...(but then again, that might be wishful thinkin)

6) The switches can become gummed up or worn out. You might be able to take the switch out and clean it with some contact cleaner. Dry it off completely and let air dry for a few minutes before reattaching and testing. Is it just one function or does the whole seat not move with any function? Check fuses to see if they aren't blown.