Hi Fellow Members,

My 13 yr old son is REALLY into cars and a Top Gear fan. He recently asked if we could perform some modification or simple service to my 2006 550i w/ 150k miles. I'm no mechanic and have only basic tools-- but I make do. (Just replaced my fuel filter on my own.) My son has not tried any repairs. He suggested replacing the plugs. How tough is that? I don't want to do the oil change because the car is so low-- gives me the creeps being under there on just stands with my nose rubbing the car! The car needs new brake fluid and power steering fluid. Looking for something that would be good experience for him. Do you have any ideas? (Buying a home lift is a stupid, expensive idea, right?)

BTW, I have already paid my Indy to replace the alt and bracket, valve and timing covers gaskets, valve seals, vacuum pump and ATF change. (and more $$$$)

Appreciate any thoughts! Thanks.

Psam550

 

Let him start with your lawnmower (or wife's car). I wouldn't let him touch an E60, even to do an oil change if he has never done it before.

 

Get ramps and put wooden blocks behind the rear tires to do an oil change. Its fool proof - unless you leave the car in neutral.
Plugs are easy too. Should be plenty of DIY guides and tips on the forums for the plugs. I have a 535i which is a totally different engine so I'm not sure where they are on the 550i.

 

wax on, wax off.

 

Confucius says: Must master the art of patience before the art of cursing. lol

Wax on...

Wax off... ;-)

 

+1 on the lawnmower idea.

But him a petrol one if you don't have one already, that he can break and repair to his hearts content!

 

Thx for the ideas, Guys. Patience is the key. I love the car, but I love my son way more! This will be a good way to spend some time with him and show him how to correctly approach a task. Maybe I should buy him an errors and omissions insurance policy before I let him work on the car. Then Sue him if he screws up!

Any ideas on how to lift the car higher to do the oil change? I have used regular ramps before but with the low suspension on the car, it is still really tight under there. Frankly, it's a little unnerving, esp for anyone with Claustrophobia. Until I figure that out, the work will be under the hood or at the wheels.

Have a good weekend!

Psam550

 

Psam, there is nothing wrong with letting your son work on the car as long as you are providing guidence and instructions. Oil changes and spark plug changes are simple thing you can do together. My nephew is six and i know he could do it. His dad has had him on the job site since he was 2. Of course always watching but this kid LOVES home depot and Lowes over ToysRus! Knows every tool in the tool box and how its safely used. It's absolutely astonishing to watch him in action. So, why not let you son do some things? Again, obviously one person has to know what they are doing.

To lift your car. I use a long low profile jack that I can move in from the front and lift on the front center jack pad. I then raise it about 2 or so feet and place jack stands on the left and right jack pads that are locater on either side just behind the front wheels. Bring in the oil catch pan, remove the cover and then the drain bolt. Make sure the oil is hitting somewhere in the center of the pan as it drains. Slide out and remove the jack stands and slowly lower the car. Allow to drain for a while. Repeat the above to reinstall the drain bolt and secure the cover. Change your filter and add your oil. With the help of Dad, your son will be successful!