new bmw owner

Good morning all:

I just purchased my first BMW......a 2003 540.....I have only driven it for 25 miles and so far I love it.

I generally do my own work and am looking to purchase a service manual for it. Any suggestions on a source for a good service manual?

First question is about the headlight ballast (ignitor). My drivers side low beam is intermittent and the previous mechanic suggested that the ignitor is on its way out.

Thoughts from anyone would be helpful before I tap into this repair....

Also, I live in new york, an hour north of the city.....Any suggestions for a source of used BMW parts?

Best Regards

Chris

Bentley publishes a paper manual @ around $100. Check Amazon, eBay, etc.
This online link for factory service manual (TIS) and wiring diagrams (WDS)
http://spaghetticoder.org/
WDS and TIS can also be found on the internet, downloaded and installed on your computer. The downloadable TIS is more complete than the online version.

Check the best links threads here on B-fest and on B-forums for a plethora of DIYs, which are often better than the service manuals for DIY guys.

Your headlight problem could be the ignitor/ballast or the bulb. Try swapping one or other side to side to see if the problem follows the moved component.
Possible, but much less likely is an LCM (light control module) fault.

With a car new to you, there are some things you should check ASAP. The most important is probably the cooling system. See the best links for a comprehensive list.

thank you for the insight.....have a great day

You'll also need a good scan tool, one that decodes and displays the text meaning of the code, as well as clear the code. It should also have a real-time multi-line display, so you can monitor engine parameters whilst driving.

There are other systems that are laptop-based. Browse the Stickies.

Originally Posted by edjack

You'll also need a good scan tool, one that decodes and displays the text meaning of the code, as well as clear the code. It should also have a real-time multi-line display, so you can monitor engine parameters whilst driving.

There are other systems that are laptop-based. Browse the Stickies.

I wish they made the '97 e39 with OBD 2 over here in Europe. I can only use a simple scanner on the 20 pin connector. But my OBD2 scanner with real time and i/m doesnt seem to work...