Need advice on coil(spark plug) and a rough ride

[m3f_goofy1641]

Hi,

My car started to shake really bad one day and suddenly the check engine light came on. Well, i brought it to my relative mechanic who said I had to get a coil changed, but he'll have to buy a whole set for $1000! Does anyone know if I can get this coil somewhere else for cheaper...like how much does BMW sell them for. And my check engine light is still on and I went to move the car today and as soon as I pressed on the gas it was making all these jalopy noises and shaking so bad I felt like I was in one of those chocolate milk commercials or I was gonna wake up all my neighbors! I noticed it shook and screamed more when I turned the wheel, anyone know if changing the coil will fix this or is this something more complicated. Thank you very much.



P.S. It's a 1997 M3 Sedan with only 47k on it.

[m3f_jyuenman]

That does not sound right, all new coils..BS!!!!!! Go take your care to the BMW dealer. Check engine light is for smog stuff, the engine computer will self tune. Do go to the BMW dealer. The coil problem is not the problem!!!!!!!

[m3f_jyuenman]

BTW there was a recall on the catalytic convertor on the E36 M3. I had a E36 M3 and it stalled on the freeway. Had to start it again and then it sputer some before it started again. And at 70K miles I had some start problems but it corrected it self. So go take your car to the BMW dealer!!

[m3f_JonC]

If your mechanic read faults and there was a fault w/ the coil, yes your coil could be the problem. The car shakes because only 5 cylinders are firiring. Check w/ your dealer, I don't see why you can't buy just one coil.

JonC

[m3f_jyuenman]

The coil is not a good cause for this problem, just from experience. Sorry they don't fail, I have a 91 300Z that is 13 years old with 170Kmiles and other cars that have coils, single or individual, no problems. It does not appear the mechanic you are going to did any diagnostic like BMW. My E36 M3 was a 97, so I encourage you to take it to the dealer!!! Happy drving and do let us know the result.

[m3f_Matutino]

Anyhow if you want to change your coils you can find them at www.bimmerzone.com for $54 each one, get one or two and change them yourself.

[m3f_park828_94ead836d3]

or get plasma coils while your at it. around 750 a set. if you want stock coils. I have a set that came out of my car at 25000 around a month ago 280 for all six.. and im in San jose around 40 min wonderful drive on 280.. let me know if you want them.

[m3f_Matutino]

HEhehheh...............$not to be in the midle but $280 is a litle to much when you can get new ones for $330.

Matt

[m3f_///MeesterSteph]

Yeah, that sounds BS. If you're anywhere near SoCal, check out Pacific BMW, they have great service (unless you don't know how to assess the problem without a mech). Take it to the dealer is the next best thing