E36 3.0 M3 Poor running

[scott3136]

I have a 1995 e36 m3 3.0 convertible.

When starting from cold its only idling at 800rpm (not sure if this is normal for these) and is spluttering it collects itself then splutters again. When warm it runs perfect and drives fine.

Hope somebody can help me

Scott

[naetype]

800rpm sounds about right, can't help with the reasons for the spluttering though, but you could ask over at e36coupe.com.

[M5Dave]

I don't know about the 3.0, but this is a common problem with the 3.2 Evos, some of which drive like pigs until they're properly warmed up.

They're doesn't seem to be any particular fault that causes it, it's just a characteristic of the car apparantly.

[weed]

Sounds like it could use a set of ignition plugs, some fuel injector cleaner, and possibly the replacement of failing lambda sensors.

m

[e36guy]

If it's spluttering when cols the first thing to try changing is the spark plugs. really could be as simple as that!

[mboon]

I have a 3.0 M3 on a 1995. Same problem with the missing slightly when cold. Spoken to a few chaps who said it was close to the service 2 which is correct.

Does yours need or coming up to needing a service 2? mine has two bars left and its doing it?

[Hongkongfooi]

I have read that most M3'sare a tad lumpy at idle or until warm. 800rpm is where mine sits at so that's okay. Do you use the car reguarly or intermittently? regular use makes it less lumpy i have found.

[scott3136]

Yes it is close to service only 1 green light left. What do they do on an inpsection 2 is this a major service?

[scott3136]

Hongkongfooi said:

I have read that most M3'sare a tad lumpy at idle or until warm. 800rpm is where mine sits at so that's okay. Do you use the car reguarly or intermittently? regular use makes it less lumpy i have found.

It is used everyday but to me seems to be getting worse.

[tjw110]

Inspection I is a whole world away from inspection II regarding cost.

On an inspection II they take the head off and check all 24 valves for cam wear and clearance, along with changing everything else.

Your green lights are only for oil service (7 to 8K), amber light for inspection I (15k ish), red light for inspection II (30k ish)

These are the typical service intervals I've seen on the Evo's I've had

As for the lumpy cold start most M3's are loud, lumpy, bags of spanners when cold, but don't they sing when warmed up!!!!