ALL E46 M3 NEED TO HAVE THIS DONE! (S54 Rod Bearings Tips and Tricks)!

We are getting close to the finish line in terms of maintenance on this 2006 BMW E46 M3 that was purchased from the Copart auction. In this video we tackle the rod bearings on the S54 engine. We decided to go with VAC coated rod bearings as well as the ARP bolts, watch the video to see why we chose this combo. During the process we also replaced the power steering hoses since they were leaking along with a bunch of other maintenance. You can find links to the parts used as well as other videos down below:
VAC Coated Rod Bearings + ARP Bolts:
Early Model (01-03) M11 Bolts:
click.linksynergy.com/deeplin...
Late Model (04-06) M10 Bolts:
click.linksynergy.com/deeplin...
ARP Rod Bolt Stretch Gauge:
amzn.to/3sUHAWK
#e46 #m3 #bmw
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Disclaimer: Some links will contain affiliate links. Due to factors beyond the control of ShopLifeTV, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. ShopLifeTV assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. ShopLifeTV recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of ShopLifeTV, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not ShopLifeTV.

[@ShopLifeTV]

Happy New Year to everyone! I hope that everyone's year is filled with great opportunities and good health!

[@razorrich]

Happy New Year wishes guys! Let’s make 2022 an amazing year by hitting 1M subs - like, share and subscribe!

[@ernestoguzman7460]

#shoplifeTV I’m from NC I was wondering if I can have your address need you to check out my e36 m3 ??

[@ciprianoravet]

Happy new year! Don't know what happened with the YT algorithm, you should have above 1M subs! Keep it up!

[@giusepperomano1453]

I believe he left the Carolinas for Cali. I just subscribe and got caught up watching for hours now. I'm bummed waiting for the C10. Hopefully your dad is still near. I just picked up a 2009 535ix with hpfp issue. Are you around San Berdoo Co.?

[@SteveAFCLondon]

Your knowledge on these engines is second to none Jason. Another great , informative video 👍

[@djflow94]

Every single time ive touched the engine of my M3 ive referenced your videos. You're awesome man

[@Zack_Aksel]

Just had my bearings and engine mounts refreshed. Drives like a dream now

[@JamiesGarage1]

Great job Dude! After seeing the wear on those bearings, I’m replacing mine right away at 130k miles! 😬🤘

[@ShopLifeTV]

Thanks man! Hope there are no surprises!

[@WarmPudgy]

I love all your bimmer vids, you're doing us all a great service.

[@johnnyc8539]

Excellent job of explaining the process. You made it look easy. Excellent tips and tricks! We will be doing this job for my son's E46 M3 in the near future.

[@supdougs4487]

YESSS I WAS SO WORRIED WHEN YOU SAID VLOG STYLE😭, but thank goodness you’re going to be doing a more detailed video with your car. I truly appreciate all your help and videos cause without you I wouldn’t still have my e46😂🙏🏽

[@BimmerSourceCA]

Always look forward to seeing notifications for your vids!

[@ShopLifeTV]

Thank you for watching!!

[@brucepeninsula2036]

This guy is the man. Straight to the point!! Very professional.

[@jrodz808]

Great video. Can’t wait for the full DIY video

[@finessedyawife4915]

Its a good day when you post

[@ShopLifeTV]

Appreciate the support!!

[@herrerafoto]

Excellent video as always! Happy and productive New Year to you both!

[@ShopLifeTV]

Thanks Mario! Happy new year!

[@2Jupiter]

You are the Rock! 👍 I´ve been watching you for years Another Great , informative video. Greetings from Sweden! 🌈✈

[@ShopLifeTV]

Thank you! It means a lot!

[@razorrich]

Great vid guys! Sight unseen and shipped to you? That’s some serious trust. Over the years, you guys earned an outstanding reputation - highly competent & fair pricing. Honestly, can’t say the same for any other shop out there. Imho, to maintain S54 longevity, it’s imperative frequent oil changes with the right motor oil (synthetic 10W-60), properly warm up the engine oil before beating on it and after spirited drive, not a bad idea to allow the engine (and brakes) to cool down before shutting it off.

[@herbienbrian2]

What should I use for my M50? I've been using 5w-30 synthetic and to be honest I'm not sure if the death rattle I'm constantly hearing is my Vanos or the rod bearings about to crumble. The oil always comes out clean no metal shavings, but as soon as the car comes up to temperature it sounds like a diesel. 🤢

[@razorrich]

@@herbienbrian2 Could be the motor oil weight. I highly suggest running Amsoil 5W-40 or Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 0W-40. Both proven the best motor oils available for M50/ M54 motors. Also, make sure to run high octane fuel like Shell V-Power and from a quality station. Some branded gas stations fill their tanks with cheap off-brand fuel. Preventative maintenance/ maintenance such as rebuilding Vanos system is always a good idea. In the vid description, you’ll find a link to “Ask me a question.” That’s the fastest way to directly inquire with Jason/ Alpha Motorwerks the channel creator. I’m sure he can properly diagnose your problem. Good luck with resolving the issue.

[@richardjohnson9702]

Use Shell Rotella T6 oil.. You can thank me later..

[@LAEdgar]

I’ve never done this type of work but holy shit very informative video man. Subbed looking forward for more content. I’ve been eyeing a 2022 e46 m3 for a stupid deal… I like to inform myself on anything I can before purchasing a car

[@snhongo1]

Thanks for the videos 🙏

[@cuttingedgecool7235]

Great video on that bottom end surgery!

[@ShopLifeTV]

Thank You!

[@driftergonewild]

Great video! thank you guys!

[@randyfleet9968]

SHame on you! You make this look so easy.

[@ShopLifeTV]

Hahaha this job is honestly not too bad, it is just a lot of tedious work and following procedures to the T. There's definitely a lot of mistakes that can be made, which could cause big issues down the line.

[@randyfleet9968]

@@ShopLifeTV I was very interested in this because I have an oil pan gasket to replace. I don't have the S54 just the M54. You video gave me some relief and will help get that done. THANKS a bunch.

[@nathanacuna]

Your head looked like your bitmoji typing in Snapchat near the end there lmao! Good stuff man! Always enjoy your videos!

[@ShopLifeTV]

lmao! thanks man!

[@Jojokeroberto]

Great video. I’ve watched almost all of your videos. One thing that could help a ton on these montages is to overlay some text to know the piece that you’re currently removing. Just a thought. Thank you for posting such good content!

[@galognu]

did you ever do a full DIY for the bearings yet? Appreciate your videos. Thank you

[@teamgomez]

Agreed on reasoning to use a stretch gauge. That said, using ARP's without resizing the rods is playing with fire. Perhaps (maybe) OK while driving Ms. Daisy, but caution against blindly following forum tribal knowledge. ARP's instructions clearly state to resize. Otherwise, you've helped me do a few jobs. Thanks for taking the time to make your vids!

[@juanpablocastanoval2180]

Amazing vídeo @shoplifetv . Is VAC the bearings you recommend? What are tour thoughts about ACL, BE and King? About to do the bearings on mine and debating which ones should I get.

[@benruiz39]

Great video. Lots of good information. I have a question I have a 2008 535xi with bad bearings. Should I go with factory rod bearings or which ones do you recommend

[@HD33P1]

Great video. I just need a lift to do this. I can't believe how much people charge to do this job. The hardest part is taking the parts off to access the connecting rod bearings

[@cuceralex]

Your local shop should be able to let you lift your car up

[@PRAGEETHKARUNADHEERA]

Hey mate, thanks for the great video. I'm getting my first E46 M3 tomorrow. I have done regular maintenance, CCV, coolant system, valve cover, suspension (bilstein b4 on oem springs) and oil pan gasket myself on my 2000 E46 323CI. Do you think I could takle rod bearings myself on my M3?

[@mardeowilliams8924]

Hey you make really great videos thanks. How come you didn't use tread lock on the rod bolts?

[@seanmiller8701]

Over 217,000 miles on my ‘04 M3. Bought the car with 62,500 miles on it, have not done the bearings since I’ve owned it. I’m rarely hard on it though. Looking into getting it done. I’ll probably take it to Destin Imports in Destin Florida since I don’t think you’re close to where I’m at. I feel I could do it, but I’d be slow at it for sure, don’t have a lift, and would have some tools to buy I don’t have.

[@e55v86]

Excellent

[@julioestrada3111]

Great video. I am trying to figure out which rod bearings I should buy for my s54, what brand do you recommend + why?

[@stevelee2504]

Interesting. We didn't have knowledge of the calibration tool back in 2000

[@ShopLifeTV]

I love the stretch gauge!

[@Fee.1]

I love the BE bearings but doesn’t BE offer treated bearings too? I’ve found the coated bearings are far less ideal personally, just from years of keeping track of success rates on the forums though I don’t have any studies or anything to back that up

[@wallbreaker_9358]

Would you recommend using this red assembly paste over normal engine oil, because that‘s what i‘m used to?

[@nevrcm3261]

My 2005 M3 (E46) @ 102K miles per Blackstone Labs oil analysis...copper content is a-ok, therefore rod bearings are still solid. Change oil every 7,500 miles

[@ricky_ricardo]

Hey Jason. I have a question, my M54B25 valve cover seems to have an "issue". On the center stack bolts (middle ones) the 2 middle ones come out just fine, but the the farthest and the closest one facing the front of the engine I cant fit my 10mm socket on it.. the 10mm socket doesn't slide all the way down.. I dont know what to do.. Its almost like maybe its warped and stretched or something? I imagine I could maybe just shave down some of the material enough to get the socket to fit but I have owned a few e46's.. always in very good shape, low owners 2-3 at max so I am not sure why this one is like this? am I in for a new valve cover?? Thanks

[@Fee.1]

Can I ask where both cars (yours and his) are located and where they were located most of their life ? Curious of the climate

[@ZHPBrent]

I replaced mine with King race bearings but have drifted the car hard for a full summer. Should i pull the pan and check them or should they be good for a few years?

[@get6buck6son6]

Wish you'd put this out 2 weeks earlier! I spun the rod bearings at the track in my 06 m3 and absolutely grenaded my engine :'(

[@SpartanA31xx]

How many miles were on it?

[@chef423]

I thought you made a video claiming you was closing the shop?? Are you in the LA area?

[@HolyFix]

Bro, is that the 8mile lake BJ separator from Amazon? Or did you buy another brand name. That thing worked like a charm. I’ve just been using the Hammer lol

[@profuse007]

Can you keep the aperture higher than f/4.0?! The DoF is too thin can’t see whole object

[@denisalvarez4257]

The center cover (oil strainer) gasket on the oil pan goes in which direction? Raised ridge towards the oil pan or towards the cover?

[@becomematrix]

If you take a spanner and torque it while the gauge is on there 👍🏼

[@petrol_burner]

Mine was done at 57k miles, and there was a lot of copper exposed. I caught it in time.

[@Rome46]

Would this be the same process for a m54 rod bearing change? My motor has a slight knock today 😭😭

[@964tractorboy]

I'd suggest doing rod-bearings as soon as you buy your S54 as they can be in need of replacement at even 60k miles.

[@mci007]

I need this done, are you guys still in Los Angeles?

[@anthonyrichiusa5805]

ShopLifeTV looking to build a street machine m54 with an SMG transmission. Would like your help.

[@robertmontgomery7158]

So what do you do if the plastigauge shows the bearing is to tight???

[@__Charlie__]

I replaced them on my 07 z4m coupe at 68k miles. They were down to the copper. Newer models are not exempt

[@ShopLifeTV]

68k is very early! I hope the bearing material didn't cause any other damage!

[@zacrichards3604]

Mines an 02 with 138k let’s get it done ASAP lol

[@phallock73]

I CAN NOT find a VIDEO on how to replace the Camshaft Positioning Sensor on the 06 M3 E-46 ..... 6 speed Manual

[@11Xshadowolf]

When I did my rod bearings, @ 235K miles the bearing where changed at 80k but they looked good I used ECS WPC rod bearings and bought the ARP rod bolts but I did not plastigage or measure bolt stretch I thought with the ARP bolts I just had to torque them down, and didn't have to worry about stretch that was only on the factory bolts... But would you suggest I drop the subframe again and re-do them ? also I bought the ST suspension coilover kit and completely restored the car I have 10mm spacers on the rear. and after alignment was done professionally my passenger Front and Rear wheels stick in from fenders about 1 inch and on driver side are perfectly flush. Have you ever seen this before ? The car was never wrecked i rebuild front and rear subframe and reinforcement with full Garagistic kit . I know putting wheel spacers on one side is a no no.... if you have an email i could send you some pics.

[@Brandon-mw8pk]

ARP bolts are designed to do both stretch torquing and using ft. lbs. I believe that measuring stretch is the preferred method as it gives a more accurate tolerance for the bearing to work with, as nothing is quite perfect. I wouldn't worry about it at all, i'd say next time you do bearings you should use the stretch method though.

[@andrewh2593]

Seems like you're prob good, but on the M11 style bolts on mine the ARP recommended torque was waaay off the target stretch. Rec torque got me 6/1000 and those require 7.5 - 8. But keep in mind if you use VAC bearings with extra clearance then 1/1000th really isn't all that much. The fact they say either method can be used by stretch is preferred should tell you all you need to know about how perfect this actually needs to be i.e. in the ballpark is fine.

[@chrisdavie4660]

Is this really ever an issue on the lower revving M54 engines?

[@Gaara_du-desert.]

Hi Jason, very nice tuto. May I ask you why you did not use a “plastigage” to measure the clearance between the rod bearing and the crankshaft? And then choose the “right” bearings as there are 2 ratings, I think . Greetings from Belgium 🇧🇪

[@VNEMUS]

I believe Jason mentioned in the video the reasoning was the VAC bearings come extra clearanced, whereas they don't need to be plastigauged like you would on original stock rod bearing replacements.

[@Gaara_du-desert.]

@@VNEMUS ok thanks for the answer, indeed I remember now

[@markbiermann8057]

How could I contact you to talk about conversions to my 2004 M3. For ex: SMG to 6 speed and possibly other suggested upgrades

[@OhCrapItsJimmy]

Where are you windage trays?

[@houseofno]

German takes M3 for a ride.. Kills it. Jason fixes broken M3. Kills it (excels at fixing it) LOL... Happy New Year everyone.

[@ShopLifeTV]

Lmao! Thank you! Happy new year to you as well!

[@teufelhunden2820]

Are you ok bro? I’m getting over a cold myself lol

[@ziadd6874]

Can you please tell me the name or link of the tool you used to remove the tie rods and control arms, the seperator tool. I checked your amazon site and description and didnt find it. You used it minute 5:46

[@ShopLifeTV]

Here you go man: amzn.to/47i87yS

[@bigbangs808]

So would you say it's safe to use ARP bolts ? Here mixed info to use and not use them cause how they can mess up the rod cap

[@ShopLifeTV]

It is safe to use ARP Bolts when using them properly and not over torquing them. In racing applications where the rod bolts are being removed frequently, this could potentially pose a concern, but usually in those applications you are probably going to upgrade rod and caps anyways.

[@19whity81]

Why are VAC Coated Rod Bearings better than the original ones?

[@burakasiliskender]

Another amazing Video! I did this job as s54 are notorious for these… a very tough and long job. Hard to do it as a DIY not going to lie. Ramp is very much needed. Just a question, when or is there any need in changing the big end ones? can it be left as it is? I mean people do tend to recommend in just doing the main ones rather. 👀 Oh and maybe also replace the oil pump sprocket? Also notorious for undoing ⚙️

[@michaelblacktree]

IIRC, the oil pump issue is on the M54 engine, not the S54. The S54 engine has a tensioner for the oil pump chain, so there's no chain slap.

[@cdh76]

These are the big end bearings he's changing. The main bearings are the much bigger job.

[@burakasiliskender]

@@cdh76 😂 I know Buddy. As you’ve read my appreciation post, I did this job too. I was just asking if its also worth doing big ends or when its required and maybe during this particular job wouldn’t it be worth also doing oil pump sprocket and nut… cause its worth doing the engine mounts sump seal etc 😉

[@cdh76]

@@burakasiliskender What's "doing the big ends" then?

[@burakasiliskender]

@@cdh76 can you read? 🤦🏻‍♂️ Read the first post and my reply to you. I am asking if it is worth doing them or when it is especially whilst doing the main bearings.

[@markt9438]

I'm surprised you didn't use loctite on the rod bolts isn't that applicable?

[@ShopLifeTV]

Not sure if there are any rod bolts that require loctite. On ARP fasteners you are supposed to use the ultra torque lube, like I did in the video.

[@michaelprice3785]

So glad I do not have an M version of my 2001 325Ci convertible.

[@kristianfletcher5497]

What's the cost too get this done

[@realjiver2]

I'm suprised that, while you were there, you didn't at least have a look at the main bearings.

[@zachzach7651]

Need to do mine on top of swapping the tranny from SMG. Oh and after that vanos and subframe 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@herbienbrian2]

Is this a problem for the M50 as well? Or is that just my Vanos about to give me a bad time?

[@SavageBunny1]

M50's are bullet proof compared to an S54, but they also make more that twice the power.

[@marikopaguia2591]

We replace the standard size bearings and engine start knocking sounds all bokts was torque properLy

[@aa240sx]

been watching you for years and I have to say, you're talents are getting wasted on this channel. your knowledge and your ability to impart that knowledge to your followers is unparalleled not only in the e46 community, but any educational community. someone (sadly not me) needs to recognize and showcase what you can do. trust me, you will get to the point where you can bash on your F80 without having to worry about repairing it. The $$ will flow for you.

[@carterford3292]

There’s plenty of money for my mans being an e46 specialist alone I’m sure they keep him busy

[@ownalicous1]

understand living that way will only deteriorate such excellence

[@bakey1111]

Would love to know how much the owner is spending on this

[@Fee.1]

How is German what’s he up to? Y’all gotta have him in all the videos

[@ethanlee7642]

How much does all this work cost?

[@465painkiller465]

Is there never a need to do this on a 320i? Mines done over 200.000 miles now

[@BMWi-ow9yx]

Where are you located at

[@joshcapecod6098]

wow, and here I thought this only impacted early year E46 up to 2003. darnabbit.....

[@josecarloscastro2635]

I have a BMW X5 M 2013. The engine sounds as if there were a screw inside. Everything sounds like the rod bearings. My question, can that be replaced or does the entire engine have to be changed? Thanks

[@ShopLifeTV]

It all depends on the damage caused by the spun bearings. Only way to tell would be to remove the oil pan and check for scoring on the crank as well as the cylinders.

[@josecarloscastro2635]

It is complicated because where I am the mechanics only want to change the engine for a new one and I feel that they just don't want to check anything, just change it, and I reviewed your video and your shows something different that that was what I liked, a good mechanic will help you gives options and not only tells you how easy it is to remove the old engine for a new one

[@josecarloscastro2635]

I parked my BMW at the moment that engine noise started so far I have not moved it, I just recorded a video and before taking it to a place to leave it, I show them the video and that is what they tell me

[@SavageBunny1]

I had bout an S54 for $1000 bucks with 169k miles on it, I didint think it was good but I put it on anyways, to my surprise it was good, but my dumb ass drove it another 2k miles without changing the rod bearings and I spun a bearing.

[@dattisha27]

where are you located i would like to bring you my e38......dont worry its bone stock

[@teamnunez4468]

Do you have. Video for code P2400?

[@grvyrdgang5672]

I wonder if the owner watches the KZbin videos on it

[@nenorv11]

Voice is better now. Age come with wisdom so go with it. Even if you have the money or able to fix them, you should always take care of your rides.

[@ShopLifeTV]

Definitely getting better! Im sure that I will build a car specifically for tracking/drifting that I hopefully don't get too attached to. Lol

[@Fee.1]

That’s what I keep telling my girlfriend like psshhhh you better take care of your ride otherwise you might come home to find a “must be 5’11” to ride this ride” in front of my bed

[@jacobdykes6736]

What causes a bmw to put it self in park from any gear

[@ShopLifeTV]

I would scan the EGS/Mechatronics module to see what fault codes are present. This could be related to an issue with the shifter or the transmission solenoids

[@jacobdykes6736]

It has no gear shifter codes but it does have clutch a and clutch b implausible

[@horiaussy8430]

g r e a t job !!!

[@pattonpending7390]

Me...Nervously looking at he driveway at 110,000 mile 2006 M3 cabrio and muttering "Will it ever end?"

[@ShopLifeTV]

Lol, better to do them before it's too late!

[@xr500t]

Oil change, Oil change, Oil change! I found it so sacrilegious that manufacturers decided to extend oil change intervals. I've taken several engines past the 300k mark and no issues whatsoever....... mind you it was a pain in the ass with the hundreds of oil changes in the middle of winter, but the end result is a hassle free engine.

[@cdeprima1209]

You guys all need to use heavier oil to prevent wear in the first place, I say straight 30 weight is the minimum unless you really like working on those cars!! Better luck! :)

[@e4t662]

M3's.

[@kellytaylor3134]

Milwaukee hook my man up ffs

[@ericmalarkey1938]

Angst is what I feel now

[@javarithms]

Man that's a slugged up engine!

[@andydhillon1977]

You my Indian brother from another auntie?!

[@doriancalon4997]

Ignorance is bliss when beating on your car

[@stephenosei-kofi9461]

F80 you’ll be okay just don’t launch it

[@ShopLifeTV]

Most likely true, especially since it's a 6mt. A lot of the crank hubs that spin are during downshifts on DCT trans during spirited driving. I will be doing a good amount of maintenance and upgrades on the F80 this year, super excited!

[@gustavomedina7526]

In my opinion, you should LS swap the engine and cost about the same instead of having a shop charge all this money to replace rod bearings unless if you are not doing the work yourself just LS swap it! Lol

[@Fee.1]

HOW DARE YOU MENTION THESE BMW ISSUE BMW FIXED THE NON EXISTENT PRAWBLEHMS THE ETHERNET WIDE WEB BLOAWS EVURRY THING OWT UHF PRUH PORSCHE UHN IT HAP PENZ TEW. 0.69.420% OF OWNERZ DONT TALC ABOWUT IT. PS. MY ROD BAYERINGZUH JUST BROKE CAN YOU HELP ME FIX DEM

[@Fee.1]

Jokes aside yea you can’t trust the bmw bearings on the e39/e46/e90 m3/m5. You need the BE bearings and arp bolts. That said bmw should be ashamed they didn’t even do any recall for the e90 and e60 owners. They got screwed

[@brucepeninsula2036]

By the way my 2004 m3 did rod bearings at 26000km at dealer. Now has 420000km. Not a lie. How did it last this long? I beat the crap out of it but religiously warm up the oil temp. Still puzzled.

[@Dirtyframemedia]

Hello is this something that constantly has to be done on these cars? What's the risk of buying a M3 with 187k where owner has not touched the bearings?