Last week I took it to the place I trust the most, about an hour away in Richmond- a place recommended by the Pres of our local BMWCCA chapter. I outlined my issues and told them to give it the once over.

They did a compression test and said it was above average for a car of this age/mileage- good to hear. They also believe that my knocking is a result of the EAT chip- running the car too rich. They put some octane boost in it and that seems, and I stress seems, to have validated their opinion. I don't know, I'm still worried but have chosen to hang onto the car for another year or so. They couldn't pin down my loss of oil- said it had some seepage that I shouldn't be concerned about and that, in conjunction w/ consumption that comes with mileage, should account for oil loss. I was pleased about the compression test though and overall they though the car was very healthy.

I sure do appreciate your help, advice, and interest!