Checks performed on a vehicle standing on the ground (BMW 3 Series E46)

Vehicle identification

Number plates must be in good condition with the letters and numbers in the correct position.

The identification plate (VIN) must be clearly legible.



Turn on the ignition and check the operation of the horn.

Check the operation of the windshield washer and wipers. Replace damaged or deformed brushes. Also check the operation of the brake lights.



Check the operation of the parking lights and license plate lights. The lenses and reflectors must be securely fastened, clean and undamaged.

Check the operation and direction of the headlight beams. The headlight reflectors should not have any spots and the lenses should not be damaged.

Turn on the ignition and check the operation of the turn signals (including indicators on the instrument panel) and the hazard warning lights. Turning on the parking lights and brake lights should not turn on the indicators - if this happens, the cause is poor grounding in the rear group of lamps.



Check the operation of the rear fog lights by turning on the indicator on the instrument panel or on the switch.

The ABS warning light should come on and go off according to the manufacturer's instructions. In most vehicles, the system warning light comes on when the ignition is turned on, and then (in the absence of faults) goes out after a few seconds.

Foot brake

Check the master cylinder, brake lines and booster unit for leaks, corrosion or other damage.



Inspect both front brake hoses for cracks. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock and make sure the hoses do not touch the wheels, tires, suspension parts, or steering mechanism. Press the brake pedal and, without releasing it, check the hoses for bulges or leaks under pressure.

Steering and suspension

Have an assistant turn the steering wheel slightly from side to side until the wheels begin to turn. Check for excessive free play between the steering wheel and the steering mechanism, which would indicate excessive wear or a loose steering column mount, steering shaft-to-pinion connection, or pinion itself.



Now have the assistant turn the steering wheel more vigorously from side to side so that the wheels just begin to turn. Inspect all hinges, bearings and connections of the steering gear. Replace parts that show signs of wear or damage. On vehicles with power steering, check the condition of the power steering pump, drive belt and hoses.

Make sure the vehicle is approximately level and at a normal height above the ground.

Shock absorbers

Press each corner of the car in turn, then release it. The car should rise, then return to its normal position. If the car continues to bounce, the shock absorber is faulty. If the car does not return to its original position at all, then the shock absorber is also faulty.

Exhaust system

Start the engine. Plug the muffler pipe with a rag and check the system for leaks. Repair or replace faulty sections.



(This publication was borrowed from an online resource BMWMAN.ru)