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Some of you may disagree with me on this, but as I was going through the Archive/How To, I realized that we seem to lack basic instructions for fairly fundamental tasks while being overloaded with 'vanity' tutorials so to speak. I'm not saying these are bad, I intend on writing one or two myself when I get chance (we need a proper one for RCL which I will write over the next few days), but it seems strange that we don't have a single tutorial for replacing a headlight bulb on a non-GTI Lupo. This isn't the easiest task in the world for a novice, yet there's not a single description on how to do it. Another one that's missing is how to replace a Brake Light Switch. Why? It's a really simple task, but not if you don't know where to look! I'm not suggesting that the current information isn't useful. I'm just saying perhaps we need to look at compiling more tutorials, on more basic subjects as well as more complicated. I'm expecting a load of abuse here or 30 "why don't you write them then" comments, but like I said, just an observation.

Not for the tdi. The 9n covers some things but the engine bay is different and tbh haynes isn't all that IMO these days. I'm sure it used to be better? I think it would make for a better site.

I've seen this idea on a few forums now. How about we start a photo of the day thread? There seem to be a fair few of us on here with at least some interest in photography so just an opportunity to post some good photos up for people to appreciate or comment on RULES: 1. one pic per member per day 2. must be the work of the poster 3. try to keep the images to a reasonable size to assist viewing. A link to the full res version may be posted if required. 4. please respect others images and ask permission before using elsewhere or downloading to your computer (Added by Silver! 14 Oct 08 as the original rules seem to have disappeared)

Time of year when I start looking for replacement wheels. Running out of BMW options I think (though z4m or a v8 might be fun) tempted by something older and more interesting but it needs to be reliable and used as a daily so approved used warrenty is usually what I go for. Last few cars for those who don't keep up: 3lr Z4 E85 m sport with the sound generator modification and a few other custom bits and enjoyed the sound and handling though the ride was pretty shocking and it needed plenty of things replaced under warranty (wheels, steering rack, rear springs etc.) Mover to an E46 M3 which I loved, but got married and the running costs were getting too high to justify. Best engine and fantastic m-diff, loved the sound, space and handling and always felt special. Down side being the boot floor cracks, bushes and springs lasting 30k miles and service costs in four figures. Changed for a 130i and it has been the best of both, being similar to my old z4 in running costs, not had any reliability issues or warranty work and it is almost as quick as the M3 up to legal road speeds. Doesn't feel as special but easy to drive and doesn't scare the wife like the M3 did. Had E39 M5, E46 325ci and E90 330i in the past too so had enough of 3 series, but not finding much that I like in the current BMW line up. Prefer N/A over turbo, straight 6 or V8 rather than a 4 pot and has to be manual not flappy paddles or auto. Budget is about £18k for trade in but can be a bit flexible. Only do 8k miles a year mixture of business and pleasure in my car and I have a 120d for longer motorway runs. Options are: 1. Keep the 130i but get the bmw performance exhaust and induction kit plus a remap and differential to give 280 bhp and the excitement and sound I miss from the M3. 2. Look for a manual e89 3lr N/A with a manual gearbox. (not that many around and the e89 gets a bit of a slating in most of the reviews I have read though none seem to have tested that specific version). Looks like the dealer 30 miles away has one in approved used so I might go for a test drive. Electric handbrake might rule it out, be nice to be back in a roadster though. 3. Wait for a manual 645/650i or 545/550i to turn up on the AUK site or just go for a z4m. 4. Other?

None of them work I've heard it could be a break pedal switch but I don't want to pay VW £100 to do it!!!

I use CarPlan Interior Valet, quite cheap but I use an oldish micro cloth to scru it off Check this review, and it's on red seats to give you an idea http://www.detailingworld.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=300288

I have wanted one of these for years, and finally had the balls to go buy one a few weeks ago. It's the 2.2 version, so pretty poor on the power stakes at about 150bhp, but that's still enough to see it to 60mph in 5.6 secs. No power steering, wind up windows, its hot, uncomfortable, stupid to get in and out of, will not protect you in a crash and will be written off if you so much as look at the fibreglass clamshells the wrong way. It's also the best thing I have ever bought, and for £6.5k I can't think of anything better for the money. Currently averaging 33mpg too which is excellent considering the performance on offer

Hi guys, crashed my poor girl today:( nothing big but i don't know the name of the panel i need replaced, its the one thats connected to the grill and indicters! Any help would be great! Thanks! -erin

Ok, just popped out to lunch today, and soon as the engine turned over there was, what I can only describe, as a clicking noise akin to sticking a lollypop stick in a bike wheel if you know what I mean. I had the the PAS pump and aux belt replaced a couple of weeks back, as the PAS pump was shot, I had to fix the pipe going into the pump with a jubilee clip as the garage had just reused the old knackered hose clamp that was allowing the PAS fluid to still leak out, but apart from that it's fine. I only say this as the noise seems to be coming from that area, and the noise fluctuates from it's constant click when putting on full lock. The previous pump on it's way out made a whiny noise, so i'm hoping it's not that again, aux belt slipping? alternator? I'm at a loss until I get back home tonight (if it makes it that far) and can have a better look.

what can I do about the alloys I'm not happy with them at the moment any ideas would be really good.

About 5pm. Dragon green lupo on p slots, looked nice looked like leopard skin headlining I think?

Had a few hour on my wheels

Standard is 205/45/15, but virtually everybody changes to 195/45/15 because there's more choice, greater availability and they're loads cheaper. If they're not for a GTI and it's nice and low, 165/50's would give a nice stretch, otherwise, go for the 195/45's. There's no reason to fit anything else.

Did you stash a kilo of sniff in it or something ?

if money was bountiful...

Hi guys My mrs just came home and said her seat won't lock back down after she's got her crap outta the back! I've go e out to have a look see but I can't get it to lock down! Is there a common fault with the seats? I've searched but can't find anything :/

But what is in fact a time-waster to car sellers? People who come, and don't give you money? Is that it...

Heres a fave of mine Dad took this on holiday in florida when he was there last November border="0" class="linked-image" /> border="0" alt="" />