Mad Git, the original thread seems to have vanished, for some reason.

Anyway, i seem to remember asking you for the current wheel sizes, so i can advise on improving the ride. What wheels does it have at the moment? 17s at a guess? Tyre size also please.

On the subject of the re-map, the 320d responds well to this change and the car becomes more driveable as well as having better response. It will be quicker and i really would get it down if i had that engine. Even if you don't need more power the engine will be nicer.

what a boring engine to modify.

All or at least almost all engines can be improved.

Bamford, the wheels are sized 205/55 R16. They came supplied with Continental "Run-flat" tyres. Someone suggested replacing the run-flat tyres with "standard" ones. Good idea, but no room for a spare. (BMW not providing the space for one - idiots!). I will think about this problem again when the tyres need replacing, which may not be that long now.

Regarding the re-map option. There are several people out there who offer this service, of course. It all depends on
a) The cost
b) The warranty
c) When and where the re-mappers can do the work
d) The re-mapper being happy to restore the engine to its previous condition and give a full refund if I am not satisfied with the result.

The only real issue that I have with the engine is that it sounds like a diesel. Maybe better soundproofing is the answer. Or a white noise CD. Or earplugs. Or just turn the stereo on full blast.

Aw - what the h*ll! As BMW say in their adverts "It's only a car".

(Laughs out loud, and walks away with a broad grin on his face)

195/60 x 16, non run-flats, would improve the ride.

DMS. Use these if you want all reassurances from a re-map.

Thanks for the advice. I am assuming that you mean DMS Automotive, based in Hampshire? My brief internet research makes me think that they are reputable and skilled.

The only reservation that I have (apart from the cost - no idea what that will be) is from this comment that I saw on another forum:
"......main risk with modding the ECU itself was that if the dealer actually drove the car, it would be blindingly obvious it had been fettled, so didn't advise this on cars under warranty"

Anyhow, I have sent them an email with a very brief summary of the engine problem, and expect that they will get back to me soon with a proposal/rejection.

Before i invested, last year, in a (much smaller) re-mapping company, i always used DMS and they did a good job each time. Including the 535d.
The company i am part of now, is cheaper, but they offer no warranty and it is mainly for older cars without a guarantee still running.

quote:

Originally posted by mad-git:

"......main risk with modding the ECU itself was that if the dealer actually drove the car, it would be blindingly obvious it had been fettled, so didn't advise this on cars under warranty"

Have you considered the removable tuning kit such as the one I use? Just unplug it when it is service time.

Your car does go well, Mike, although i'm still waiting for your verdict on the 335d after your test drive!

quote:

Originally posted by Bamford:
Your car does go well, Mike, although i'm still waiting for your verdict on the 335d after your test drive!

I haven't test driven one of those - I daren't!
I am 99% sure that if I did, I would not be able to resist the temptation to buy one . . . .which is great if I had the money.

Call me old-fashioned, but I will not take out loans to buy cars, or anything else. Simple rule: If I don't have the money, I don't buy it.

quote:

Originally posted by SR-71:
Have you considered the removable tuning kit such as the one I use? Just unplug it when it is service time.

Ah! Sounds intriguing. Could you tell me, please, how well does it work? And roughly how much would it cost?

They are way cheaper than DMS !

quote:

Originally posted by mad-git:
[QUOTE]Originally posted by SR-71:
Ah! Sounds intriguing. Could you tell me, please, how well does it work? And roughly how much would it cost?

They work very well and take about ten minutes max to fit or remove. Price for your BMW is £479
Very pleased with mine as it smooths the power delivery and also brings it in earlier. Look up tunit.co.uk

Honestly I'm tempted to get a turbo car and get a removable tuning kit. You get to customise your level of performance and the brilliant thing is that if you're really security conscious you could conceivably tune it to 0 bhp were you to leave the car in a dodgy area.