Lecture Notes: Fixing an Abandoned BMW M3 in 24 Hours

Introduction

• Car Model: BMW M3 (E46 generation)
• Objective: Fix the car in 24 hours and sell it to an enthusiastic owner

Background

• Significance: The E46 M3 is considered one of the greatest driving cars, and the lecturer has personal fondness having owned one previously.
• Initial Condition: Car was abandoned and sitting in the back of a shop
• Ownership Transfer: Successfully negotiated a deal with the owner to take over the car
• Primary Goal: Get the car running and fix any issues before selling it

Initial Inspection

• First Step: Check if the car starts
• Key and Title: Confirmed to be a real car
• Interior Condition: Found a radar detector, worn shifter, dog leash, Halloween card, sunglasses case, and a dirty glove
• Battery Issue: Need to use a jump pack
• Push to Shop: Decided to push the car to the shop due to proximity

Jump Start

• Battery Location: In the back of the car
• Jump Start Attempt: Used a jump pack; car managed to start but was out of gas
• Observations: Engine sounds healthy; aftermarket stereo functional

Engine Check

• Air Intake: Cann intake observed
• Rod Bearings: Notorious for spinning rod bearings; need to be careful
• Oil Check: Essential before running the car further
• Convertible Specification: Less desirable but still valuable for driving

Undercarriage Inspection

• Brake Pads: Rear pads in good condition; front pads likely rusty
• Suspension Surface Rust: Not overly concerning
• Guebo Condition: Appears to be in good condition
• Differential Bushings: Very worn, leading to clunking noises during clutch operation
• Play Check: Wheels did not have significant play
• Struts and Other Components: Overall good condition; no obvious leaks

Parts and Maintenance

• Parts Source: FCP Euro
• Items: Filters, oil, fluids, spark plugs, and mystery fluid
• Timeline: Start at 11:00 AM

Engine Maintenance

• Spark Plug Change: Process to remove and replace plugs and coil packs
• Engine Bay Cleanup: Removed old parts and replaced with new ones
• Tool Challenges: Overcame issues like dropping tools in the engine bay

Oil and Transmission Fluid Change

• Oil Change: Drained old oil, changed filter, and refilled with new oil
• Transmission Fluid: Drained and refilled using hand pump; debunked 'lifetime oil' myth

Differential Bushings

• Removal: Exhaust, axles, and driveshaft needed to be disconnected
• Special Tools: Used for removing and installing new bushings
• Bushing Condition: Old bushings were severely worn; causing significant clunking

Interior Cleanup

• Top Functionality: Convertible top tested and functioning
• Steering Wheel Replacement: Old wheel replaced with Alcantara one
• Detailing: Thorough cleaning and leather conditioning

Final Steps

• Exterior Wash: Engine bay, wheels, and entire exterior washed and dried
• Polish and Cut: Detailed polish for exterior finish

Conclusion

• Final Condition: Car looks and runs much better; ready for sale
• Sentiment: Happy to have brought an enthusiast's car back to life
• Call to Action: Encouraged viewers to subscribe and thanked them for watching