My three line indicator that sets max rpm for the thermal condition of the engine is always parked at 7k (the last of the 3). I live in a warm climate, but it seems strange it doesn't move it all. I assume it should. Is there any way to check that it is performing its intended purpose?

 

Found out how to do the check, or close enough, and it's broken. It doesn't move at all during the instrument cluster check. Ugh. I'm guessing it's under warranty. Makes me nervous that they'd break it all down to fix it, hopefully they don't screw something else up in the process.

I need to pick a dealer first. I live in a triangle of horrible dealers, can't decide which one I want wrenching on my car.

The dealer I bought it from failed to fix this issue even though I'm sure anyone who sits in it notices the three lines that shouldn't be there. I did not.

Sinking feeling.

ETA: I laugh at my original post. The three line indicator - WTF is that? That's what it looks like when it's broken. And yea, parked at 6500 instead of 7k.

 

Well at normal temp, the 3 lines is all you should see. That is the normal spot where it is supposed to be. BUT when you start the car there should be MANY lines, like 10 or so... My guess is the little motor that controls that is broken.

Keep us updated about which dealer you choose, and what they diagnose as the problem.

GL

 

I own a 2006 BMW 525xi and if you read the owners manual on page 76 it states that you have the "white-striped advance warning field" which changes depending on the engine temperature. It also shows a picture of it on page 14 and 76.

On my 2008 BMW 550i M Sport Package on page 80 of the owners manual it shows the white-striped advance warning field but never states that it changes on the engine temperature. It also shows a picture of it on page 14 and 80 with 3 lines.

I have owned the cars since new and never remembered my 2008 550i "white-striped advance warning" field move.

Hope this helps.

 

Immensely. I'll go check my manual to see if it either has a star by it or omits the wording associated with it moving.

My build date is 1/9, so probably really close in manufacturing to your 550i.

Thank you, I sure hope nothing is wrong with my baby. Peace of mind would be great.

 

You can download PDF versions of the manuals from http://www.bmwusa.com/standard/content/owner/dgh.aspx and do a side by side comparison on the wording about the white-striped advance warning field.

 

I just went and checked the actual manual and it says nothing about it moving. Just that it's a pre-warning strip and if you venture into the red, +6500 rpm, the car will shut down fuel flow to protect itself.

All of the pictures throughout the manual show it as the three line indicator. Wow, I'm one happy (albeit a bit embarrassed about overreacting) camper. I guess I can use the appointment I've set up to get some of the minor wear issues dealt with.

Thank you.