odometer is stuck on my '87 528e

[87 528e]

I have an '87 528e, and the odometer is stuck at 98,975. (The odometer had an annoying click for 40,000 miles, then stopped working altogether.) I've searched past threads but found postings mainly about electronic odometers. Mine is analog. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.

[Rigmaster]

Not 100% sure, but I think it's the same type speedo/odo as the E30, a VERY common problem is that one of the plastic/nylon odometer gears breaks or strips and the odometer no longer works.

The speedo is electric- driven from a signal off the diff sensor, then the odometer is mechanically driven off the speedo thru a series of small gears.

Repair options are:

1- used speedo/odo, might last 1 mile, might last 100k. Cost- $50-75 or so.
(a new speedo/odo is ~$400 BMW list price!!)

2- send speedo off to repair shop- cost ~$100 or more.

3- buy odometer gears and replace yourself- cost ~$30 or so, plus your time. I've heard quite a few people who have had success with this- but it takes patience and a delicate touch. www.odometergears.com used to sell them BMW gears- they also have some good info on how to determine which gear is broken.


Bret.

[Pixcutter]

You need new gears in the odometer. They are plastic, they get brittle and break. BAV Auto sells replacements. Abot $25.00 each.