How To Replace BMW N55 Valve Cover Replacement DIY! FULL GUIDE WITH TIPS AND TRICKS!

[@arjunbhattacharya3623]

This is the ONLY video that doesn’t timelapse through the putting it back part! Thank you for being thorough and not assuming everyone can figure the rest out!! Cheers!!

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Glad to hear my video was helpful!

[@mikemcmanus5396]

Best step by step instructional video I’ve found. Other videos I’ve viewed glossed over at the removal of the hoses and their clips. Give the camera person a raise!!! Great closeups of the work.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Thank you Mike! I do all the video and editing myself. I have gotten better over the years! LOL! I wanted to make one of the best videos on youtube for this valve cover replacement :)

[@drkwsherrill]

Like me, you always have your safety glasses! Great video. Very concise and informative. Best video on this procedure that I've found. Thanks!

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Thanks for watching!

[@nh3388]

the best repair video ever. MY TIPS: The 16 and 20 Bolt are not as bad as you think. I used a 8” wobble and a universal joint to the socket. To get them easy use both hands and feed the socket into the bolts using your fingers. left hand feeling the bolt. right hand holding the tool. Really get into the hood but it comes out no problem. just trust your fingers. Install tool 2 hours and went ahead and did injectors , plugs and coils. Thanks for the video ! Install took only 2 hours following every step.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

@@nh3388 Love the feedback and your tips!

[@CK-ip5yc]

Super helpful video! My 435i n55 (50k miles) has been producing white smoke from the back of the engine. My local auto shop diagnosed a faulty valve cover/gasket leaking oil onto the catalytic converter which is the cause for smoke. They quoted $1200 to install a new valve cover and gasket (Seattle area). After watching your video... I'm thinking about doing this myself (maybe)!Parts at fcpeuro is approximately $400 Friendly bystanders at gas stops would often ask me, "yo, is your car overheating..?" and now I know what to tell them lol

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Not really a hard to do valve cover. Just he cautious to not roll the gasket.

[@ericwj7]

First off great video! This really covers everything! just did this on my 2014 M235I. I had a small leak but in the very back of the valve cover, therefore hitting the exhaust manifold and the downpipe. quick question I didn't get a chance to thoroughly clean the old oil that leaked and I still am getting a burnt oil smell, I checked and saw no leaks so I assume this may take around a week or more to totally burn off?. It is getting a little better after 120 miles. Next is my oil pan gasket, which I'm not looking forward to LOL.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Awesome, Eric! The oil gets into the heat shield and it takes a long time to burn off. That is most likely what you still smell. I have to do my oil pan gasket too LOL But after I finish the Z3 cylinder head install. It's finally starting to warm up which will help me get back into the garage :)

[@ericwj7]

@@AskTheCarExperts Thank you! I figuered it may take some time. I appreciate your quick response and Channel.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

@@ericwj7 Glad to help :)!

[@angelito3332]

Thank you, replaced my valve cover gasket on my 640i following this video, when removing valve cover the plastic piece that clips inside valve cover disconnected from valve cover, reinstalled valve cover without putting that plastic piece back on inside valve cover ! (Forgot about it) How important is that for functioning of the car ??? Thanks

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Hello, That plastic cap is a drain back for the PCV. I have never left them off. If they break sometimes you can re-attach with super glue. I don't really think they are super critical.

[@RexRogers_]

As a semi-new mechanic ( done brakes, coolant flush etc) would you say this is doable ? Video made it seem very straight forward

[@AskTheCarExperts]

If you follow my process and are careful anyone with basic skills should be able to get this done.

[@RexRogers_]

@@AskTheCarExperts thanks again. Will be watching it for a second time soon

[@newfeebullet5291]

Great video, got mine done, the torque sequence wasn’t posted everything working great. Thanks for the walk thru

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Glad it helped

[@mufasaz6152]

Have a 2011 535i Xdrive. At 27:00 you plugged in the rugger hose to the side of the valve cover. Did that to mine but i could not see where it would then plug into next. so my hose just hangs on the side of the VC. Where should that specifically go? please help I've been searching everywhere.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Hello, The vacuum line will go to the EPDW electronic wastegate actuator on the exhaust side of the engine.

[@jasonst5688]

According to the repair manual, the screws from the valve cover should be loosened from outside to inside. And tightened from bolt 1 to bolt 26. So I think loosening them from 26-1 is the correct way to do it.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Coming off is not too critical. Going on you should follow the sequence.

[@devinsmith4151]

Impressive video, precautions are taken. Some tips that may make your life easier: 1/4" stubby torque wrench of clicker type with a 1/4" E torx socket for the valve cover bolts. Makes it much quicker. Screw guns can be used if your extremely careful. Dabs of superglue for cover side of gasket (if reusing cover) on the bolt areas, you can wack the cover on without too much worry if the gasket falls out. I would avoid reusing the strut brace bolts. Roll the boot lock, or have a power pack ready for reopening boot. Torque the flange nuts for the fuel lines (standard guideline is reuse 3 times), avoiding shrinking the fuel line tapered connections.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Great addition Devin!

[@GrahamQuigley]

Likes for FUEL IN DA MOUTH! 😆 Big up man 🤙

[@AskTheCarExperts]

LOL Been there a few times! Gross! But exon's not to bad LOL

[@ap9417]

Thanks for this video! I own a BMW M235i, it has this same N55 engine. And since a few days i did smell burned oil. There's a oil leak, some oil dripped on the cat. According some other owners it's a well known problem with this engine. So, i ordered a new cover, and now i found your diy video how to replace it. But: i wonder why BMW build this kind of covers...i had a BMW M3 E46 a few years ago, and replacing the gasket is really easy. Takes me not longer as 30 minutes only. And you can just replace a gasket only, no need replace the complete cover!! By the way: a cover costs, here in The Netherlands: 260,00 Euro's. Installed by BMW dealer a total of nearly 500,00 Euro's. Greetings from The Netherlands, Albert.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Hello Albert! Very cool to hear from you in the Netherlands! I have yet to visit Europe. Maybe someday! It is common on the V55 for the valve covers to crack and the PCV system is integrated into the valve cover. The the E46 the PCV valve was separate and the cover much easier to take on and off. You can just replace the gasket if your cover is in good shape but if you have over 80K and it has not been replaced it is a good idea. I have just done the gasket sometimes and then the PCV system fails and the repair has to be done again. I hope you find my video helpful! Thanks for posting a comment!

[@jorgegonzalez8885]

Hi Roger, thanks for all the great detailed videos. I have a couple jobs to do on my 2013 X5 XDrive 35i V6 Twin Turbo. I have a valve cover replacement needed and a PVC valve needing replacement as well. Let start with the valve cover. This video I’m commenting on is not the exact look of my motor. I have an air filter and housing on the drivers side of the engine cover. Is this the video I use to replace my valve cover replacement? I know a lot of it is similar but before I start tearing into this I would like to know if this video will work for me. My next deal is the vehicle has an oil leak into my PVC which creates oil loss and a lot of smoke during start up. I looked around and found I should replace my PVC which is hidden by my exhaust manifold. Do you know if that’s a true statement, that it is my PVC needing replacement? If so do you have a video for that job? Roger I appreciate you taking the time to help me on this.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Hi Jorge, Can you send me your VIN to my email? [e-mail]

[@Ashley_van_Schooneveld]

Good idea to replace spark plugs while everything is accessible and ignition coils id needed.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Absolutely!

[@h2promotionandproduction]

I have 08 535i and it never ran hot but white smoke coming out my tail pipe it has 152 thousand miles do I replace the motor or the valve cover gaskets I love my car so what would you do please I need help?

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Hello, Sorry to hear you have white smoke. You have to determine if the failure is oil burning or coolant. Are you having to add coolant? Check the plugs and do a compression and cylinder leakage test. Also the turbo could be the cause of the smoke. You should check the impeller of the turbo. I think this may prove to be a turbo failure.

[@h2promotionandproduction]

@@AskTheCarExperts you think it might be the turbo so what's the first test would you check and I wish you were in Birmingham Alabama because I know you can fix the problem

[@AskTheCarExperts]

I would inspect the turbo impeller for any play or signs of oil. I had a few techs do valve covers for this and it ended up needing the turbo

[@MarioDallaRiva]

Nice garlic, Roger 😋 ?: the metal fuel lines…how do they seal? o-rings or shape of fitting? I imagine it’s high pressure direct injection on the N55? Great video. Nice quality images 👍🏼

[@AskTheCarExperts]

😋 I grow my garlic every year! Such and easy rewarding crop. It is high pressure direct injection with shape fitting no o rings. A great engine but I have seen rod bearing failure and engine knock. Usually related to neglect.

[@jimmyl.bakerjr.7026]

2011 bmw 535i....great video but my valve cover is the DEVIL!!! I have been trying for 2 hours to get that thing off. It wiggles and lifts on the bottom but the top near the fuel line won't budge. Any tips or tricks????

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Thank you. Double check your not missing a hold down screw. There can be a hidden screw under the weight that is attached to the tip corner of the valve cover and a bolt under that.

[@jimmyl.bakerjr.7026]

@AskTheCarExperts Thanks so much! That was the issue. Once I removed that bolt, the rest was easy. Thanks again!

[@AskTheCarExperts]

@@jimmyl.bakerjr.7026 Awesome Jimmy!

[@59paulgagnon]

keep up the great videos......very nice step by step with the appropriate cautions explained........!

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Thank you, Paul! Glad my video was helpful

[@CFlow07]

@askthecarexperts Great video, I am going to do this for my daughters 2011 535i. I have a couple, 1. Using the Amazon Valve cover verses OEM. Thoughts? and rationale? Also, how much time would you say this job will take? I changed intake in my 2003 ford expedition and I follow directions very well.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Hello, Thank you for subscribing! I think a good valve cover from amazon will be ok to use. I have not used one personally. Look for one that says OE equivalent. I normally buy from FCP Euro as they offer a lifetime warranty on parts. The N55 engine is a bit more complex than the Ford. It will most likely take 3 hours to do it well. Make sure to not roll the gasket when installing in the back corner. I hope the install goes well!

[@CFlow07]

@@AskTheCarExperts What is the name of the pliers used at 7:06?

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Those are called hose gripper plier set. Here is a link to them on amazon. amzn.to/48NJ7Q7

[@bigpimpin2572]

Going to attempt to change my valve cover this weekend this video seems really helpful wish me luck!

[@AskTheCarExperts]

You got this Jon!

[@bigpimpin2572]

@@AskTheCarExperts so I replaced my valve cover yesterday and replaced the coils but during startup there’s a slight misfire sounds like the engine revs for about 3 seconds and that’s it car drove fine after that. Any idea what that could be? I removed and reseated the coils made sure they were snug.

[@justcallmebot]

Just wanted to say thanks for the video. went by your directions step by step n it was a walk through. you weren't lying about that number 20 bolt tho. that one and the other one that takes a swivel i think 16 . thankfully ima skinny guy so i was to guide it with just a swivel. but anyway thanks man

[@AskTheCarExperts]

You're welcome! It's great to hear you were able to get the job done!

[@Agent-mw8th]

Fantastic DIY thank you , which brand Valve Cover would you recommend , FCP carries Elring or go with Original?

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Thank you! I usually use OEM BUT I like FCP and they warranty for life. I would do am FCP if it was my car.

[@Agent-mw8th]

@@AskTheCarExperts Thank you

[@sterling070]

What are the best covers to use? Then what covers are acceptable?

[@AskTheCarExperts]

On my BMW I used an OEM equivalent from FCP Euro which give a lifetime warranty on parts. I did not use a factory valve cover. I have had no problems so far. Hope this helps :)

[@xantilyst]

They did change my valve cover but by returning at home en saw fuel spilling out from one of the fuel injectors, now they charge me for 300 bucks, but I see you don't need to get the injectors out??

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Hello, The shop does need to remove the fuel line to the injector so if the fuel line is leaking then it would be related to the previous repair.

[@xantilyst]

The issue wasn't with the fuel line leaking, but rather with the fuel injector being suddenly clogged, which now needs replacement for $300 ):

[@armwrestlingpassion8784]

Ffs that’s what i needed. I‘m not a mechanic, but I’m sure im doing better jobs then most of professional mechanics. One question i have though… what are your feelings about using rtv with this gasket?? Thanks 😊

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Awesome! No RTV on this gasket. If you do reuse the valve cover you can use a product like star tact to help stick the gasket to the valve cover surface but no RTV on the head surface.

[@armwrestlingpassion8784]

Yeah, that’s what also BMW says to do…. No rtv…. I did this 1 year ago… and its leaking again. Thats the reason why i wanna use rtv this time

[@AskTheCarExperts]

@@armwrestlingpassion8784 I have seen some with RTV and they usually leak. RTV used to be used only in seams like the M54 at the timing cover seem.If you used an OEM gasket from a dealer in would have a 2 year warranty or from FCP they replace them for free. Maybe it was a torque sequence issue? Also make sure the leak is not from a crankcase seam. That would mean the valve cover would need to be replaced. Or a small Crack in the cover due to age.

[@deanebromfield4387]

Very clear video my friend. Thank you 👍🏾👍🏾

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Thanks Deane! Glad you found it helpful. Thank you for commenting.

[@makedonia6484]

how tight am i supposed to make the screws? i don’t have a torque wrench, just a normal ratchet

[@AskTheCarExperts]

It would he worth the cost to purchase a torque wrench. Tightening by hand can lead to over and under torque and can damage your valve cover.

[@xbeautifuldiscordx]

Man I cannot get the back bolt out to save my life!! I’ve removed everything I can think of and still can’t access it! 2013 bmw 535i N55….help????

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Hi Jason, That is a tough one. Take your time as not to strip out the head. I have a short on what I use to access this one. kzbin.infoseGnQtk1O9E?feature=share

[@xbeautifuldiscordx]

@@AskTheCarExperts appreciate it!!

[@jakemiller8580]

I have a 2013 335i and I'm stuck on the back bolt by the fire wall as well #20 i believe i have very basic tools no swivels only 1 extension and a socket set with wrenches any tips?

[@thisissparta9]

@@jakemiller8580 Don't think you can get it without a swivel as with only an extension you can't get the right angle on it. I have a 740li (more room near the firewall) and even then it was a bit annoying to undo the 2 back bolts, had to do them with a swivel. With the 3 series I imagine you barely have any room for the back bolts. I recommend using tape to secure the swivel+socket to the extension to ensure it doesn't fall off when trying to fiddle it onto the bolt.

[@jongd8810]

Thank you. Great, recap before my project this weekend. My only question is at time: 29:08. Where do I get a third hand, it would be very helpful in my life.

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Great to hear you found my video helpful! Best wishes on your project! I am still trying to find a place that will sow one on for me!

[@princetonjackson827]

Is this amazon cover still holding up?

[@AskTheCarExperts]

OE part used

[@matthewelsing]

Watched this video just replacing my valve cover gasket then afterward everything was put back together started leaking all of its oil and smoke came into cabin through the ac vents

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Sorry to hear that. You probably rolled the gasket. Very easy to do sometimes...at least I have seen other techs do it :) Best to remove and inspect, replace the gasket if damaged and be careful to inspect to make sure it does not fall out of place when installing.

[@AlmightyS0sa]

Lol needed this walkthrough 6 months ago, I messed mine up. Tried to get away with only paying $160 for parts...

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Sorry to hear that. It took me a bit to edit so it took longer to post. On higher mileage cars it's always best to replace the valve cover. I had a few people that only did the gasket and the internal PCV failed right after.

[@AlmightyS0sa]

@@AskTheCarExperts still, thank you for the upload we need this! Great work

[@AskTheCarExperts]

@@AlmightyS0sa Appreciate that! I love helping and sharing information 😀

[@RexRogers_]

Can’t wait till I have a lift in my garage to do jobs like this

[@AskTheCarExperts]

A loft does make a huge difference!

[@RexRogers_]

Anyone else see the smoking in rear when he was revving it

[@AskTheCarExperts]

It is normal to have oil burn off. 🔥 Most cars with an active leak will have the exhaust gaskets full of oil. Takes a bit of driving to clear it all even after cleanin.

[@RexRogers_]

@@AskTheCarExperts great thank you, going to be attempting to fix soon

[@ahmidalzbade8835]

💯💯👍

[@AskTheCarExperts]

Thanks Ahmid!

[@Loudn55]

Thank you sir saving me a lot of money 🫡

[@AskTheCarExperts]

You're welcome, my friend!