Pinking

[Argybargy]

Probably not the first time this has come up but would welcome any help. My E46 330Ci has recently started pinking when the engine is hot and the weather is warm.Very noticeable on moderate load from 2500-3500 rpm. It's really annoying and is spoiling my enjoyment of the car.

The car is fussed over no end - always treated to super unleaded (usually Shell Nitro), oil changes every 7.5 K miles and serviced properly. Had the car for 7 years now and the engine pulls as strong as ever. Is it an issue of ignition timing and if so why should it occur now?

[Argybargy]

No.

[Argybargy]

I've had the car for 7 years now and I have done over 80K miles in it - it's now done 117K. It has mainly been run on Shell (V Power and now Nitro) but occasionally Esso Supreme or Tesco Momentum. I'm pretty sure it is pinking - I had the same issue with a previous car (a Mazda) and that never got fixed despite the Mazda garage endlessly fiddling with the timing.

Driving along with the windows down it is very noticeable. I didn't think it was a common issue with these engines and given the way it's been maintained I'm at a loss to understand why it's doing it now.

[Argybargy]

I'll give another fuel a go but may consider Terra Clean in case the engine is coked up.Has anyone else tried that?

[Argybargy]

I'll give another fuel a go but may consider Terra Clean in case the engine is coked up.Has anyone else tried that?

[Argybargy]

Back from the garage. Replaced faulty air mass meter, did extended engine flush and put in oil additive. Seems to have largely sorted it but still might give Terra Clean a go. Surprised if many others didn't have this problem, given I change the oil and filter every 7.5K miles, only ever use Super and occasionally put in petrol additives.

Another bill to add to my collection...