Creagle

Thanks for the advice Dave. I actually tried to get the part from ECP some time ago but even with the part number they could not find it, when speaking via their online chat. I got the part ordered from Bowker in Blackburn and it arrived today in the post, they didn't charge any postage which seems very good - excellent service. Will get it on tomorrow in the daylight. The car has been very well maintained previously and for the three years I have owned it, but I suspect the mileage (108,000) is probably a significant factor in the consumption. Doing some googling I see some manufacturers consider much higher oil consumption acceptable, even on brand new cars! Sadly mine only has an electronic sensor, which seems madness. I get the benefit of having both - an instant warning can be shown when it's low, but no oil dipstick seems the worst option of all. Being a 15 year old car I would have no recourse with BMW if the sensor failed and the engine blew from low/no oil. The sensor is varying from saying 3/4 full to completely full so it seems to be the right level and measuring correctly... for now.

Thanks Dave, I think you're right, best just to have the part. I cant navigate BMW's website to buy the part but have found the part number and just sent them a message asking how I can order it. Is it just me or is the website for buying parts atrocious? Also going to order some new hex screws for the under-tray as most are rusty and loose - wouldn't like it to drop off on the motorway! On an unrelated note, my low oil light came on today, I was aware it was getting low but it did catch me out - I got the 1litre it requested in within a few miles. It's used a litre of oil in 6500 miles (since the last oil change) is that typical for a 116i 1 series?

Hi I have a 54 plate 116i, that car is in a good condition. But in doing the last oil change myself I broke the little catch that keeps the oil sump access flap in shut position on the under-tray. I've now obviously taken off the flap and kept it in safe keeping. Having a quick search for the replacement part I can't easily find it, I could probably get it from BMW with some effort but my question is, is there any need to? The whole under-tray is in tact and in-place, just the oil sump access flap is off the car now. iIll the car come in harms way in any way with the small opening in the under-tray or am I worrying for no reason, I know many cars have no under-tray at all. My thinking is the potential issues are a well-targeted stone/debris hitting the sump and causing damage - but that seems a very remote possibility; potential damage from salt on the roads, but I hardly see much spray getting its way through the tiny gap; only other potential worry is effect on aerodynamics/fuel economy, but this must be very minimal. Thanks for any input. If you think I should get a new catch so that I can put the flap back in place, please let me know where I can get one. Many thanks Chris