BMW E46 Convertible Top Hydraulic Fluid REFILL - Walk Through

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  • Опубликовано: 24 авг 2024

Комментарии • 84

  • @dcel4781
    @dcel4781 2 месяца назад +1

    Good video. I understand that you're describing every step for people that don't really work on their cars much, but it took forever to get to the point. Fortunately there are the chapter markers. But still useful, thanks.

  • @MichaelNovak1987
    @MichaelNovak1987 Год назад +10

    Video is very long winded. Doesn't get to the point...

  • @sbee7878
    @sbee7878 5 месяцев назад +3

    Using this in 2024. Thanks so much man !

  • @jamesshaw89
    @jamesshaw89 6 месяцев назад +2

    fantastic tutorial thanks for sharing this

  • @TnFTL
    @TnFTL 2 месяца назад

    Great video! Thanks, Cody. I’ll get to tackling my reservoir in one of the two next weekends. Look forward to more videos!

  • @robinhatwell194
    @robinhatwell194 Год назад +2

    Yo Geezer, not actually tried this yet but your video was spot on. I imagine this will fix my 330ci noisy and slow roof issue without going to an expensive garage to do the same thing. I'll let you know if it cured my problem. Thanks Man. RH England.

    • @frac3620
      @frac3620 5 месяцев назад

      Hi was that it?

  • @cafeprojections4384
    @cafeprojections4384 Год назад +5

    If you use a syringe you don't need to remove the pump - or lay it flat - just remove the fill screw and add fluid to the top of the circle - replace the fill screw.

    • @unccody
      @unccody  Год назад +1

      That’s a great idea! I’ll be investing in one soon to make this job easier. Thanks for watching and for your comment.

  • @dorian831
    @dorian831 7 месяцев назад +2

    Thanks for your video it was helpful.

  • @alkhashtee
    @alkhashtee 6 месяцев назад +1

    Cody, you are awesome young man. Thank you very much and best withes for you..

  • @mikolizazi
    @mikolizazi 2 года назад +11

    I’ve never done it but I think using a syringe with a tube would be a lot easier. The same for sucking out any excess fluid.

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад +1

      That would be a great tool to use! I'll have to pick one up for next time

  • @standtall7646
    @standtall7646 6 месяцев назад +1

    When you look at your reservoir, if the fluid, while in working position, is at the dot, you are at the full level. As a NOTE: This is not a REFILL.., it is a TOP OFF.

  • @moonrock5378
    @moonrock5378 2 года назад +2

    Thank you so much for this video 💯💯

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      You're welcome! So glad it could help

  • @shannon4968
    @shannon4968 5 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you❤❤

  • @paulschroeder1078
    @paulschroeder1078 2 года назад +1

    thank you for doing this video

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      My pleasure! I am always glad to help.

  • @frac3620
    @frac3620 5 месяцев назад

    Hi, your video was very useful, tomorrow I should go and buy an e46 cabrio unfortunately automatic 🤢 with also problems with the soft top, the owner says that the motor works but the soft top It doesn't salt, so it's probably missing the oil, at least I hope so

  • @thenikobestman
    @thenikobestman Год назад +1

    Great video bro!!!
    Thank you

    • @unccody
      @unccody  Год назад

      Glad you liked it! I hope it helps you save a trip to the shop!

  • @robbieslaughter3741
    @robbieslaughter3741 Год назад +1

    Love video going to put a speaker box in just like you

    • @unccody
      @unccody  Год назад +1

      Thanks so much for watching and for your comment! Yes, I added a 10 inch JL sub and amp with the factory radio and it sounds great. I like the OEM look of the dash. Check out the e46 aux kit if you haven't already. Cheers!

  • @jdewberry0007
    @jdewberry0007 Год назад +1

    I HAVE A 2001 BMW THANK YOU

  • @jlundy75
    @jlundy75 Год назад

    Well made video, thank you.

  • @standtall7646
    @standtall7646 6 месяцев назад

    For the who don't know, by now, use a bulb type pump to fill reservoir. MUCH easier and usually(for me) no mess,.

  • @lateamarian3
    @lateamarian3 3 месяца назад

    the best video

  • @MrBubba59
    @MrBubba59 Год назад +1

    My car looks very similar to yours Orient Blue/Grey leather but it is a 2002 Sport (hard suspension) and automatic rather than manual. I would certainly prefer the manual but they are very rare!
    This is a superbly done video to show removal and access to the pump and everything else behind that panel. I had a fight with that cladding when I changed the TV module - Terrible piece of design. All due to effective sound deadening I suspect. Mine was even worse due to a CD changer and Navigation CD player in the slots. I don't think my problem relates to low fluid as I have none of the symptoms you mention in reply to other posts. I think it is a relay or fuse because although the front motor will release and tilt the top back a little, nothing further happens except a clicking noise from the rear left when the main motor should kick in and pull the whole thing back. I have just the flashing red light but no codes to report in INPA so I assume no broken wires.

    • @eoinnash8979
      @eoinnash8979 5 месяцев назад

      Mine has the same problem as your talking about have you ever g gotten the fix for it

    • @MrBubba59
      @MrBubba59 5 месяцев назад +1

      @@eoinnash8979 It seemed to clear itself (the fault). Push the roof manually through its sequence and at the same time keep trying the auto-closing/opening at different positions. With this mine suddently started working the full sequence. as it should. What caused it I'm not sure but in my experience, lack of use plays a part. When these things are used frequently they work better. Primarily the sensors and relays. Also vital for the roof is a really good battery condition. I've had many low voltage errors with mine after using it for short journeys. It takes a lot of power to operate.

  • @chriscalamari5620
    @chriscalamari5620 3 месяца назад

    What happens if it's over filled

  • @nickmander6088
    @nickmander6088 Год назад +2

    Hi BMW Ci lover, I’m so incredibly happy to have discovered your precise and in-depth video on the mechanics of the soft-top.
    I have a 04 plate 320 Ci soft-top that has unfortunately been out of action for a year.
    Operation of it manually is an absolute ball ache, removing back seat disengage motor and wind the roof latch with Allen key.
    It stopped working after I took it down to transport an antique mirror, the roof closed slowly hesitated then closed fully and then decided it didn’t want to work properly after, I was told it might need recalibrating or the pump was dead, it unlocks and opens 3 inches then holts, so the motor under the seat works.
    So having watched your video is the only other piece of the puzzle,, however I have factory fitted six disc changer in the left hand recess where you have a tray.
    Do you know anything about removing the disc changer?
    Kind regards
    Nick Mander
    United Kingdom

    • @unccody
      @unccody  Год назад +1

      Hi Nick,
      Thanks so much for the kind words! I am so happy you found my video useful. Yes, I agree that manually opening and closing the top can be quite the chore, so I understand wanting to get it working again quickly.
      Given your description of the issue, I would check a few things. When you hold the button, what happens to the light? Is it solid red or is it orange? Second, double check that the boot convertible compartment is fully down and that the sensor for that is working. Also make sure the sensor for your boot being closed is working. Both of those will cause the top not to work, but since you say it opens partially, I suspect this is not your issue.
      I would also double check the wiring, especially at the elbow joints where the top frame folds near the driver's and passenger's heads. The wires have been known to fray, and it could be that you have an exposed or fraying wire that is causing this issue.
      As far as the CD changer, I am not sure how to remove that, as mine does not come equipped with this feature. However, I see a few videos on RUclips and a few articles on Google following a cursory search. Give that a try, and hopefully you will find a good one!
      Cheers,
      Cody

    • @nickmander6088
      @nickmander6088 Год назад

      Hey Cody, thanks for your reply, it is much appreciated indeed.
      The button light you refer to is on constant red.
      But as I said it unlocks and opens up a small way.
      The trunk space for the roof is fully open as far as it will go, the boot lid is a bone of contention though, sometimes it unlocks without touching the damn thing.
      What I have noticed is that someone before me has removed the plastic rivets to remove the lining and not replace them. Somewhat annoying to say the least.
      I will take on board what you have said about wiring and cd changer reference on RUclips.
      Thanks again for your time and help
      Nick 👍

    • @TheSinghoff
      @TheSinghoff Год назад +1

      @@nickmander6088 don’t forget to give us an update if you were able to get it fixed with the fluid in

  • @mahoaga33
    @mahoaga33 2 года назад +1

    Very very helpful good video… fill the fluid when top ist open or close?

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      Thank you! You will want to fill when the top is in the open (down) position.

  • @dimitrezlatanov7480
    @dimitrezlatanov7480 2 года назад +2

    Hi. Found your video very helpful. Just one question if you don't mind. Do you know if the system is self bleeding? Thanks

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      Hello, and I am so glad it was helpful! I am not certain about that. I think that the system does have a mechanism to bleed excess air out. You could try going to realoem and looking for the parts diagram for your car as well, which would likely provide you with more information.

  • @tommolzan5051
    @tommolzan5051 Год назад

    If you use a syringe (like the kind you use for feeding kittens or puppies formula) to fill, you'll have much better control and fewer drips.

  • @slifersmobilemecanic6262
    @slifersmobilemecanic6262 2 года назад +2

    I currently have a flashin red light I can hear the motor going and top barely moves, Fluid is a little low but inside that circle. Would that cause that blinking red light?

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад +1

      Hello, and thanks for watching! Usually, low fluid only results in decreased performance and increased noise when operating the top. The blinking red light is usually caused by either 1) the luggage compartment expansion not being fully in the down position (there is a sensor and the top will not operate unless it detects the compartment is where it should be) or 2) the trunk not being fully closed. If your trunk is closed but your dash indicates otherwise, you likely have a faulty sensor. There is also detailed operating instructions in the owner's manual, which you can easily find online for free.
      As far as the increased noise and slow movement, I would imagine that the slightly low fluid is the culprit for that one. I hope you get it working!

  • @area51london
    @area51london 4 месяца назад

    Mine ooens point at the sky makes funny noise then jerks...please help somebody....😢

  • @christianjover7259
    @christianjover7259 2 года назад +2

    Watched the video looks like it’s not too hard to do. Was your top not working at all when you pressed the button to open/close? I changed my tonneau the other day so I had my key in and had the tonneau open by pressing the button for a couple hours & I feel like that just drained my fluid never added any fluid in the 20k kms I’ve put on the car so I’m just hoping this is my issue

    • @unccody
      @unccody  Год назад

      Good morning, and sorry for the late reply! When I did this, my top was operating, but it was slow, loud, and sometimes required a bit of a push for assistance. If you are not hearing the top motors engage or you are getting the flashing red light or the amber light, you have another issue.

    • @sbee7878
      @sbee7878 5 месяцев назад

      ⁠​⁠@@unccodyhi thank you so much for the video, I’ll be doing this tomorrow. Do you know what a flashing amber light might indicate? My top is slow so I think hydraulics is definitely part of the issue. But occasionally the back that covers the top when it is down won’t unlock or won’t lock once the top is down so it just stops and flashes amber. If I restart the car it will usually pick back up. Would this be that rear seat motor you think?

  • @richardsimmons6470
    @richardsimmons6470 Год назад +1

    so easy when you know - did my 911 and will do this whn ive got a dry day - what fluid please

    • @unccody
      @unccody  Год назад

      How cool it must be to have a 911! You can check the description for the fluid I used. I got the green bottle of Pentosin CHF 11s fluid. I believe any hydraulic fluid works. You can find it at your local auto parts store. Thanks for watching!

  • @standtall7646
    @standtall7646 6 месяцев назад

    I just started your video. I'm stopping at 5:38 to make a quick comment(s): You carry oil in your trunk. That's not a good sign. 2) You carry an OBD2 Scanner in your trunk. That's another not-good sign.:) Okay. On with the video.BTW: Do you CHANGE your fluid on a regular basis? If so, how often? Thx

  • @danielmaldonado7927
    @danielmaldonado7927 Год назад +1

    Hello Cody, I'm Daniel, I'm from Mexico and I have a problem with the hood of a BMW E46 model 2002. I've searched many videos but without results until I came across yours and I would like to know if you could help me a little

    • @unccody
      @unccody  Год назад

      Hola Daniel, I can certainly try! What is the issue you are experiencing?

  • @jenseninterceptor3416
    @jenseninterceptor3416 2 года назад +1

    l used a syringe and l overfilled it its a bit hi now and cant work out how to get it out That was a few months ago and it seemed to be fine but the other day after the roof was down for an hour the cowel wouldnt open. l reset it with the button under the back seat and it went up ok but now lm afraid to lower the top again in case its gets stuck for good. Any suggestions would be very appreciated

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      Good morning, and I am sorry to hear that you are afraid you overfilled it! As I have not had this experience myself, I am not sure how to remove fluid from the reservoir. My only idea would be to get a bowl and to try to simply tilt the reservoir and pour some of the fluid out. It may be very messy, so make sure you have lots of paper towels and wipes nearby, and protect the interior of your luggage compartment.
      As a side note, the roof could have been not responding for another reason. In mind, sometimes the luggage compartment doesn't register that the expander is down, so I have to manipulate it once or twice, and then it will work. If that doesn't work, you can always try unhooking the negative battery terminal and leaving it for a while before reconnecting, waiting again, and trying to use the top again.
      Do you have any lights when trying to operate the top? Blinking red or solid orange? Good luck!

  • @sealslayer
    @sealslayer 2 года назад +2

    Where does the fluid go? Is there a leak?

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад +1

      You would have to investigate all of the hydraulic lines, but I would imagine that, if your level is getting lower, there is a leak at some point. It is on my list of long-term items to try to locate and fix the leak that I suspect I have. Thanks!

  • @Enthusiast_Plus
    @Enthusiast_Plus 9 месяцев назад

    So you didnt replace all the fluid? Why not drain and refill?

  • @jongkeunlee
    @jongkeunlee 2 года назад +3

    Hi there. Do you have any tips or idea what are the symptoms could be when the fluid is low? Because I don't think I have leaks so I don't like a idea just opening to see if it's low. Thanks for video.

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад +3

      Hello! For me, I notice that I am a little low when the sound starts to increase. The top movements will start to get louder and more pronounced. Also, I notice that the top opens and closes more slowly, and, in extreme cases, the motor is not able to lift the top up and requires a push to help it. If your top is excessively noisy or struggles to open and close on its own, you are probably a little low and topping off could help. Good luck!

    • @jongkeunlee
      @jongkeunlee 2 года назад

      @@unccody Thanks much. Too bad winter is coming. Can't wait for sunny summer. Good luck.

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      You’re welcome! And look at the positive - plenty of time to get it ready to go come that first sunny March day

  • @robhull9189
    @robhull9189 2 года назад +1

    Hello, my time will only operate if I give it some help while I’m pushing the button. The fluid seems to be at the correct level. It almost seems as if the pump is not quite strong enough to make the top go up and down. But, like I said if I have somebody help me and give it a little bit of help it will work going up and going down. Is it possible that the fluid is just too old? Or is there some other reason this could be happening? Thank you.

    • @robhull9189
      @robhull9189 2 года назад +1

      By the way, my top worked very well for many many years and then this past summer just stopped working well. I am the one that just asked the question in the last post. My name is Rob.

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      Hello Rob,
      Thank you for watching and for your comment! While I cannot rule out something like a failing top motor or old fluid, based on the information you provided, it does sound like you are low on fluid. Does your top operate with more noise than usual?
      I would try refilling your fluid so that it is closer to the top of the window and see if that helps. For me, one of the symptoms of low fluid is exactly what you describe - the top will work with a little "help." Good luck!

  • @karolkutz8258
    @karolkutz8258 2 года назад +1

    Do you know what happens if it’s overfilled?? Mine is like an inch over the level. I’m looking for the reason why my roof doesn’t work

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад +1

      Thanks for your comment! As I have never encountered this, I am not sure what happens when it is overfilled. What happens when you press the raise or lower button? I would start by checking that your luggage expansion compartment is fully in the down position (there is a sensor and it won't operate unless it detects this), and of course ensure that your trunk is fully closed. You could also have an issue with the convertible top motor, which is easily accessible by taking out the rear seats. Good luck!

    • @karolkutz8258
      @karolkutz8258 2 года назад

      Thank you Cody! I already checked those, everything looks good. I also took out some of this fluid.
      I can hear some clicking noise on the left side where cover locks are, but it’s not cover locks. More like this hydraulic something, but roof won’t go up, only a little in front.

  • @johnpanes0621
    @johnpanes0621 2 года назад +1

    Hey bro where did you buy your bmw headcover at the back?

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      Hello! These were actually a gift to me years ago, so I am not 100% sure. On another note, I recently found out that having anything over the rear headrests can impair the rollover safety system, so I have since taken them off. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful!

  • @ownalicous1
    @ownalicous1 2 года назад +2

    So why does the top have to be down to do this? My top won’t go down for me.

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      The top needs to be down for this so that you can measure correctly. The levels will not be correct if you fill it with the top up.
      You have two options - you can put the top down manually and then refill once it is down, or you can refill it with the top up enough so that it becomes operational again, and then you can refill it to the correct amount once the top is down. Good luck, and thank you for watching!

    • @ownalicous1
      @ownalicous1 2 года назад

      @@unccody so, im not sure whats wrong now. I can manually lower the top and it will close automatically. But if i lower it automatically it gets stuck! What gives?

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      That's a good question, I am wondering if you still might not be at the right fluid level. Check it with the top down and see where you are.
      What happens when it gets stuck? Does it come up at all? What does the button look like when you try to raise the top - flashing yellow, flashing red?
      You may need to take it to an indy shop you trust or a convertible top repair shop to have them investigate further. I wish you good luck in your diagnosis!

  • @TheSinghoff
    @TheSinghoff Год назад

    How do you know if you want to top off your fluid though?

    • @unccody
      @unccody  Год назад

      In the video description, I mention a few of the symptoms, such as slow opening/closing or loud top operation. If it gets low enough, the motors will not be able to operate the top independently, and you might have to help it by giving it a little push. Also, you can check the levels in the window of the reservoir.

  • @mihaimihai8771
    @mihaimihai8771 Год назад

    Hi brother , to refil with fluid the roof must be closed or opend ?

    • @unccody
      @unccody  Год назад

      Hello! You should refill the fluid with the top in the down (opened) position. This allows for accurate measuring. Of course, if you are so low on fluid that it is difficult to operate your top, you can always add a little fluid with the top up (closed) so that you can operate it. You'll want to have the top down (open) when you use the window on the reservoir to check for the correct levels. Thanks for watching!

    • @mihaimihai8771
      @mihaimihai8771 Год назад

      @@unccody the roof is working but is very slow , i bought the oil but i didn t know how to fill the oil compartiment thank you 👍

  • @LuisGutierrez-yf9fn
    @LuisGutierrez-yf9fn 2 года назад +1

    hey there, what fluid did you use?

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад +1

      Hello, thanks for watching! I used Pentosin CHF 11S fluid. It comes in a green metal canister, and I got it from my local auto parts store.

    • @LuisGutierrez-yf9fn
      @LuisGutierrez-yf9fn 2 года назад

      thank you so much this video was very helpful. God bless you 🙏🏽

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад +1

      This warms my heart, and that’s exactly what I was hoping for when I made this video! Thank you, and God bless you as well!

  • @mightymusic1000
    @mightymusic1000 2 года назад

    Why does the top have to be down?

    • @unccody
      @unccody  2 года назад

      Thanks for your comment! The top needs to be in the "down" position because the measurement window will be incorrect if you attempt measure with the top up. Putting the top down moves all of the hydraulic fluid and allows you to measure your fluid correctly. It's similar to how you want to check your coolant levels with a cool engine. You will get an incorrect reading otherwise. If you attempt to refill with the top up, you will not fill it to the correct level. Hope this helps!