How to Prepare Your BMW for an Emergency

If you’re a BMW owner, then you know that there’s always the potential for something to go wrong. When it does, it’s important to know how to handle the situation. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most common emergencies in a BMW and what you can do to stay safe on the road. So whether your car is new or a vintage beauty, read on for some helpful tips.

Engine Trouble

Engine problems can span a variety of issues, most commonly engine failure. Engine failure is typically caused by one or more of the following: overheating, lack of oil, or engine component wear and tear.

Overheating can be caused by several things, such as a coolant leak, air filter blockage, or low engine oil levels. A lack of oil can cause engine parts to grind against each other, eventually leading to engine seizure. Engine component wear and tear is usually caused by extended use or driving conditions that put extra strain on the engine (e.g., stop-and-go traffic, towing a trailer).

Keep an extra bottle of oil with you as well as extra coolant. You can use these in a bind to help your BMW limp to our shop or the nearest garage. If you suspect your car has engine trouble, it’s important to take it to a mechanic as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Watch your dashboard for any indication of a problem and have our phone number in your contacts. You may need a tow if your engine seizes due to overheating. Be prepared with a plan of action and give us a call right away to help.

Flat Tire

There are a few reasons why tires may go flat. The most common reason is due to slow leaks from punctures or tire damage. These punctures or cuts allow air to escape from the tire slowly over time.

Fast tire leaks are usually caused by tire damage, such as a large hole or tear in the tire. If you have a tire leak, you’ll need to bring your BMW to our mechanics to have the tire repaired or replaced.

You can help prevent tire flats by checking your tire pressure regularly and keeping your tires properly inflated. You should also inspect your tires for any signs of damage any time you get in or are walking up to your vehicle. Look for cracks, cuts, or bulges in the sidewall. If you notice any damage, bring your BMW to our mechanics so we can inspect the tire and make any necessary repairs.

Make sure your spare tire is inflated and not old or cracked due to lack of use. Ensure your jack and lug nut wrench are also in your trunk and accessible. If you have a motor club to call, make sure they’re in your contact list if you need help with changing the tire on a busy road, or you’d rather have your BMW towed.

Battery, Alternator, and Other Electric Problems

Electrical problems in a car can manifest in a number of ways. One of the most common electrical problems is a dead battery. This can happen when the electrical system is not being used for a long period of time, such as when the car is stored for the winter.

Another common electrical problem is a faulty alternator. The alternator is what charges the battery, so if it is not working properly, the battery will eventually run out of power. Alternator problems can also cause the electrical system to power down unexpectedly, which can be dangerous if it happens while the car is being driven.

Other electrical problems include loose wires and faulty fuses. Both of these can cause short circuits that can lead to fires or other damage. In short, there are a variety of electrical problems that can occur in a car, and it is important to be aware of them in order to keep your vehicle safe. Routine maintenance can help prevent this by catching small issues early.

It’s important to have a plan of action. Always make sure you are safe inside the car with the doors locked, then give your motor club service a call or reach out to our shop for a tow. Knowing you have a plan in mind for any emergency situation will give you peace of mind.

Milestone Motors

If you experience any of these problems, it is important to get your vehicle checked out by our mechanics at Milestone Motors. We are happy to take a look at your BMW and help you get back on the road as soon as possible. Give us a call today or stop in from nearby Palm Beach, Wellington, West Palm Beach, and Royal Palm Beach, FL.

* BMW Car image credit goes to: Luca Piccini Basile.