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Guide to Changing BMW Wiper Blades

When Should Your BMW Wiper Blades Be Replaced?

Wiper blades, despite being affordable and simple to change, are sometimes disregarded when it comes to routine car maintenance. Wiper blades that are worn out can have a detrimental impact on your driving skills and general safety in bad weather. You may not know how worn your wiper blades have become as they fade over time. With that in mind, how can you know when your wiper blades need to be replaced?

Wiper blades should be replaced every 6 months as a general rule, especially in damp climates. Your wiper blades are not performing as effectively as they should if they leave any water, debris, or residue on the windshield as they swipe. It's also time for a new pair if they're wobbling or producing a screaming noise instead of quietly gliding across your windshield.

How to Change the Wiper Blades on a BMW

  1. Wiper blade replacement on your BMW is a simple procedure that can be done anywhere. Most of the time, the wiper arm base is tucked under the edge of the hood, making it difficult to raise it up and away from your car and change the blade. We recommend turning on your vehicle's ignition and temporarily running your wipers to make the wiper blade replacement operation go more smoothly. Turn off your ignition as the blades sweep across your windshield, stopping them in mid-swipe. You should now be able to easily reach the wiper blades by pulling the wiper arms vertically away from your windshield.
  2. Locate and press or release a release tab or button where the arm meets the blade. You should now be able to remove the wiper blade away from the arm with a gentle pull. To keep the wiper blades attached, most wiper arms use a hook-shaped mechanism, but many contemporary vehicles use a simple adapter system.
  3. After removing the old wiper blade from the arm, just slide the new one on and listen for an audible click, or close the supplied release tab if necessary. You can now reinstall the wiper blade on the windshield and restart your engine, causing the wiper blade to return to its off position.

Grand Blanc BMW Wiper Blades for Sale

When it comes to replacing your BMW wiper blades, the most important thing to remember is to get the right size. The wiper blade on the driver's side is usually longer than the wiper blade on the passenger side, and wiper blade sizes vary greatly from vehicle to vehicle. This is why BMW of Grand Blanc has a large assortment of wiper blades in store and ready to install for every BMW model. We carry a comprehensive selection of new wiper blades, batteries, and other items for your vehicle. Check out our BMW parts specials on a regular basis to see if there are any special offers on wiper blades or other services.

Our service and parts teams are pleased to help you replace your wiper blades if you need it. If it's time for new wiper blades, it's probably time for an oil change and general check-up by our BMW-approved service center. Schedule a service appointment today! Routine maintenance can extend the life of your BMW, so make an appointment today!

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Why is BMW called Beamer?

There are many slang phrases that are used to refer to BMW vehicles. Some of these terms are "bimmer," "beamer," and "beemer." But just where did they come from in the first place? While "beamer," "beemer," and "bimmer" have always been popular among car enthusiasts in the English-speaking world, they have recently seen a surge in popularity among their peers in other parts of the globe. A "beamer car" (or "Beemer automobile") is technically wrong. When referring to a BMW car, the proper phrase is "bimmer"; "beemer" and "beamer" are really exclusively used to describe BMW motorcycles. Where the name "Beamer" came from The term "Beamer" was first used to differentiate the brand from another British manufacturer*, whose bikes were known as "Beezers." BMW bikes, however, were very successful in British racing, particularly at the Isle of Man TT Races. For instance, in 1939, Georg "Schorsch" Meier drove a BMW 255 Kompressor to victory in the Senior TT, making him the first non-British racer to achieve such a feat. In the decades after the war, he was succeeded by a succession of victorious BMW squads. Between 1923 and 1976, a total of 26 different drivers—including Walter Schneider, Max Deubel, Siegfried Schauzu, and Klaus Ender—took the checkered flag in a BMW. Riders and fans of racing have dubbed BMW motorcycles "beemers" after the word "beezer" due to the two words' resemblance. As it eliminates the challenging long W sound at the end, "Beemer" is more snappier and simpler to pronounce than BMW. The English-speaking world adopted the term "beemer" as a common slang term for BMW motorcycles. The spelling variation "beamer" developed through time; its similarity to "beam" is likely accidental. BMW's native Germany has never given rise to a distinct nickname, maybe because the brand's name rolls off the tongue more naturally there. The evolution of the word "bimmer" from "beemer." It was in the '70s when the term "bimmer" first appeared. BMW cars have recently seen somewhat of a sales surge in the United States. Until the 1970s, Americans often referred to BMW automobiles and motorbikes with the same name, "beamers." However, the Boston Chapter BMW club's periodical has been named "Bimmer" since that time. A magazine aimed to American BMW enthusiasts with the same name as the Boston Chapter's appeared on newsstands throughout the country at the same time, and the term "bimmer" eventually became the standard shorthand for BMW automobiles (as opposed to "beamer" or "beemer" for BMW motorcycles). Even in Germany, where the brand first struggled to gain traction, the name has now become popular among auto enthusiasts everywhere. Here's why the Chinese refer to a BMW as a "precious horse" BMWs in China have been referred to as "bimmers" and "bao-ma" since the 1990s (bao rhymes with cow). This endearment literally means "lovely horse" in English. Horses are revered as holy animals in Chinese culture, and their symbolic worth extends to their symbolic power over one's competitors. The car's rise to prominence as a status symbol in China mirrors the horse's decline in popularity as a mode of transportation there. BMW in particular is a status symbol for the well-off.

Perform Your Best in Michigan Weather

If you live in Michigan, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. From the bitter winters to the muggy summers, it seems like your car never gets a break! It’s no surprise then that BMWs are well-known for their long-lasting life, even under stressful conditions. If you’re looking to buy your next new car and you live in Michigan, check out these BMW models that perform best in local weather conditions. When traveling in snowy areas, xDrive is a necessity. BMW's xDrive system, which distributes power between axles to ensure the car maintains grip, allows modern models to maintain their excellent handling in the snow without sacrificing the luxury or comfort of the ride. BMW's All-Wheel-Drive technology, xDrive, can tell which axle needs the power applied to it because of its ability to detect changes in front and rear wheel rotation. BMW owners who choose for winter tires in the winter benefit from even better traction and handling in the snow. When driving in snow, BMWs are best operated in Eco Pro mode. Thus, it restricts the engine's torque output to prevent wheel spin. Driving in Eco mode isn't as exciting as driving in Sport mode, but it's the safest option on icy roads. The goal of the game is to keep the car from spinning out of control by preventing the wheels from spinning during regular operation. Recent advances in technology have made newer BMWs superior to their predecessors in slippery weather. We know now that earlier BMWs, especially those with rear-wheel drive, are not ideal for driving on ice roads. If you possess such a model and reside somewhere that gets chilly winters, you should take extra precautions. Good news: most new BMWs include features that make it possible to brave the chill, and the technology behind these features is only going to get better in the years to come. X5 3 Series 5 Series Effects of Wet Weather on Your BMW Since rain is more easily overlooked than snow, we might not give much thought to how it affects the health and performance of our automobiles. If you don't keep up with regular maintenance, though, it can cause a variety of problems, just like any other kind of weather. Several important factors are outlined below. From the Outside While rain may not cause immediate or significant damage to your exterior, neglecting routine maintenance can lead to issues in the future. It's a common misconception among motorists that a light rain will suffice to clean your car and prevent you from having to take it to the car wash. Actually, the reverse is correct. Rain isn't just water; it also carries a variety of minerals and contaminants that can scratch or corrode various components of your vehicle. Getting it professionally washed is the best way to avoid water spots, rust, and other problems. Technical Considerations You may think that rain only damages the exterior of your BMW, but it may also rust the metal components inside. For instance, your vehicle's battery can be at risk due to its location. If the engine compartment isn't adequately sealed, condensation on the battery's top can cause power loss. That's why it's crucial to keep the connections grease- and rust-free. Likewise, your braking ABS features are dependent on the integrity of its sensors. A sensor for the anti-lock mechanism won't function properly if it becomes wet because of a leak. This demonstrates the value of regular checks. Taking Care of the Insides When it rains, it might be difficult to keep your car clean. If left unchecked, the accumulation of water, mud, plant debris, and other substances tracked inside can make for an unpleasant driving experience. If you value your expensive leather upholstery and want to preserve it in pristine shape, this is a major reason for alarm because water and leather do not get along. Maintaining your BMW's upholstery with the correct supplies and scheduling regular professional detailing services will protect it from the elements. Protect Your Car From Extreme Heat and Humidity Sweltering heat and humidity in the summer can really pack a punch. When temperatures rise to intolerable levels, most people prefer to remain indoors, where they can cool themselves in the air conditioning. The same cannot be said about automobiles. Intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can severely degrade your car if you leave it parked in the open. Even if you park your car in a garage, if the space isn't properly air conditioned, the vehicle could still overheat and suffer damage. Although it will need some extra work on your side, you can significantly increase the lifespan of your car by avoiding the damaging effects of the excessive heat and humidity. Here are ten ways you and your automobile may stay cool this summer. Reduce The Risk Of Damage To The Interior When left in direct sunshine for as little as two hours, your car's internal temperature can reach 200°F - hot enough to bake chocolate chip cookies. Aside from the delicious delights, think what that kind of continual heat may do to your dashboard and upholstery. Applying an interior protectant is fantastic, but you can also protect your automobile from the sun by covering as much of the interior as possible. Consider purchasing BMW seat covers, steering wheel covers, and sunshade visors to decrease UV exposure as much as possible. Solar shields for car windshields are a cheap and effective solution. Get in touch with your local car dealership to learn more about the available alternatives for custom-designed rear sunshades. BMW M Indoor/Outdoor Car Cover $350 BMW M Performance Steering Wheel Cover in Alcantara/ Carbon Fiber $230 BMW UV Sunshade $79 Change the blades in the wipers. High temperatures accelerate the breakdown of rubber and plastic. Rubber and plastic are used to make windshield wiper blades. It follows that when temperatures are high, your wiper blades are more vulnerable to damage. Two or three times a year, or when they start leaving streaks on the windshield, is the recommended frequency for replacement. Inspect Your Tires A tire blowout is a real and potentially deadly occurrence. Unchecked tire inflation and rapid wear during the warmer months can lead to unexpected blowouts. Keep a close eye on the PSI in each tire to be sure you're meeting the manufacturer's recommendations. Lower the PSI as necessary. You should probably bring your automobile in for service if your tires look like they've seen better days. Tread depth is measured and reported to you by your service professionals. Do what they say, because driving on old, worn-out tires is extremely dangerous. Check Status Of The Battery Did you know that a regular automobile battery's lifespan might be cut in half if it's exposed to high heat and humidity? If you reside in a humid tropical climate, cleaning corroded battery terminals is a terrific chore to take on. Taking these measures can significantly lengthen the battery's service life in your vehicle. (In most situations, all you need is baking soda, water, and an old toothbrush.) After five years, a battery may need to be replaced since it has been working hard for too long. It is possible to get your current battery checked and have a replacement installed at your local auto service store. Keep Up with A/C Maintenance Weary of roasting in that moving oven you call a car? The problem may lie with an air conditioner that is not functioning properly. The air conditioner in your vehicle can be checked by a mechanic to detect if the compressor or hoses are damaged. Perhaps your air conditioner needs to be fixed. It's possible that all your air conditioning system needs is a charge. Other Pointers to Keeping Your BMW Protected From The Sun Whenever feasible, try to park in the shade. Humidity may be an issue even in a sheltered garage. It is critical to remove the humid air from your storage location. In smaller spaces, a dehumidifier works effectively, and well constructed and insulated external walls will minimize the level of inside humidity. A clean car not only looks excellent; it may also shield radiant heat and bounce UV rays off more easily than a dirty car. During the hotter, more humid months of the year, you should wash your automobile as often as possible, ideally by hand. Cleanliness is second only to godliness. Following your routine maintenance schedule will allow you to address small concerns before they become serious ones. Even topping off your vehicle's fluids before summer can help you avoid most problems during the hotter months. If you need help remembering when to take your car in for servicing, contact your BMW of Grand Blanc specialist. Need BMW Service in Grand Blanc? When the temperature outside gets unbearable, you can safeguard your BMW by keeping a close check on it, purchasing appropriate BMW accessories, and making wise choices. Call our Grand Blanc service center at 810-695-4400 or make an appointment with us online if you need help with your vehicle.

The i4 appears to have what it takes to defeat the Tesla Model 3.

BMW virtually introduced the i4 Concept at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show. It gave us a sneak peek at what the production-spec i4 will look like when it arrives in 2021. The design ideas of the Tesla Model 3 and the BMW i4 are diametrically opposed. The American EV has a straightforward appearance, with no unusual curves or wrinkles anywhere on the body. The production version in Germany will be a little more subdued, but it will still be quite bold and turn a lot of heads on the road. The grille is the most noticeable difference between the two cars when viewed from the front. The i4 has a massive kidney grille, but the Model 3 doesn't have one at all. The air dam at the bottom of the bumper, which directs airflow into the batteries, is the only aperture on its face. The Model 3's headlamps are swept back, but the i4's are thin and aggressive. On the i4, BMW also debuted its new logo. From the side, the German appears to be straightforward and in keeping with BMW's current lineup. The back has a few dramatic components, but the taillights and general look aren't as ostentatious as the front. The Model 3's silhouette is simple and straightforward, with few harsh curves and corners. In comparison to the Model 3's large taillights, the i4 has slim L-shaped LED taillights that seem bright and crisp. Both automobiles have an all-glass roof that keeps occupants entertained. On the practical side, the Model 3's glass roof is roof-rack compatible, and Tesla released the rack as an accessory last year. There's no word yet on whether the i4's roof will be compatible. The dynamics and proportions of the car have a role in getting the most range from a battery. With its current lineup of vehicles, it's safe to say Tesla has nailed it in this category. According to Tesla, the Model 3 has the lowest drag coefficient of any car in the planet, at 0.23. The Model S also receives the same score. This number is kept low thanks to strategically placed air intakes and the hood spoiler lip. The Model 3 is also available with "aero wheels." The i4's specifications have yet to be released by BMW. However, because it is designated to as an electric 4 Series Gran Coupe, the drag coefficient for that model is 0.28. The i4's drag coefficient could be reduced, as it has been on the 2019 3 Series, which has a drag coefficient of 0.23. The BMW i4 is Available in 11 colors Alpine White Mineral White Black Black Sapphire Individual Dravit Grey Skyscraper Grey Sunset Orange Tanzanite Blue San Remo Green Aventurine Red Brooklyn Grey Frozen Portimao Blue The Tesla Model S is available in five colors: Pearl White (Multi-Coat) Solid Black Midnight Silver Metallic Deep Blue Metallic Red (Multi-Coat) Exterior Dimensions The i4's dimensions are fairly comparable to the Model 3. BMW i4 Tesla Model 3 Length 188.5 inches 184.8 inches Width 72.9 inches 72.8 inches/76.1 inches (with wing mirrors folded/unfolded) Height 57 inches 56.8 inches Wheelbase 112.4 inches 113.2 inches BMW I4 and Tesla Model 3 Interior Given the exterior's boldness, everyone expected the cabin to follow suit. Despite its status as a concept, the i4 has a calm, neutral interior. The cabin of the Tesla Model 3 is quite simple and minimalistic. Everything is well-organized, and there are no unnecessary frills. There are no physical knobs, dials, or buttons in the cabin. The dash is dominated by a 15-inch touchscreen that controls everything within. The Model 3 does not disappoint in terms of room. There is enough legroom, headroom, and shoulder room for all of the passengers to be comfortable. The cabin doesn't feel claustrophobic because to the glass top and dual-tone motif. Tech Features BMW i4 Automatic-opening doors iDrive system with a crystal dial Curved display that integrates the instrument cluster as well as the infotainment system Sounds for different drive modes, warnings, etc. developed with the legendary Hans Zimmer “Intelligence Panel” on the outside grille that houses various sensor for driver-assisted features Tesla Model 3 15-inch landscaped-style touchscreen system Constant over-the-air updates make the car feel fresh 360-degree Camera Setup 14-speaker sound system Easter Eggs Autopilot Is The BMW I4 Self-Driving? Tesla Autopilot is a collection of advanced driver-assistance systems that include lane centering, adaptive cruise control, self-parking, and other features that decrease your driving workload. You may also buy a full self-driving package, but the technology is still in development and will be updated to your car over the air whenever it is released. BMW's "Personal CoPilot" technology is similar to this. This technology, like Tesla's, hasn't yet reached Level 5 autonomy, but the Bavarians plan to release a fleet of cars in 2021. To answer the question, the i4 is not a self-driving vehicle. BMW's iNext SUV will be the company's first self-driving vehicle. Seating POWERTRAIN, PERFORMANCE, AND RANGE BMW i4 specifications eDrive40 M50 Acceleration 0-60 mph 5.5 sec 3.7 sec Range 301 miles 207 miles Top Speed 130 mph 140 mph Tesla Model 3 specifications Performance Dual Motor Performance Dual Motor Standard Plus Rear-Wheel Acceleration 0-60 mph 3.2s 4.4 s 5.3 s Range 310 miles 322 miles 250 miles Top Speed 162 mph 145 mph 140 mph PRICING The prices for the i4, before incentives are: eDrive40 – $55,400 i4 M50 - $65,900 The prices for the Model 3, before incentives are: Standard Range Plus – $39,990 Long Range– $48,990 Performance – $56,990