BMW 3 Series Mechanical Review

[@josephmartinez1320]

I’ve had my g20 b48 330i for 3 years now and I have to say that it’s a solid car. Maintenance is easy to. I’ve had no issues since I purchased it. The B48 and B58 (M340i) engines are known to be BMWS most reliable engine since the N54 and N55. I have friends who are BMW technicians and they say that they’ve seen b48’s come in with 75k-100,000 miles on them and no issues at all. I did my oil change a couple months back and it’s very easy to do (DIY) up next on the list is the brake fluid and engine mounts. Everything is going to cost me under $400 to do in the comfort of my home. Despite what people say about reliability, BMW are actually pretty solid cars, IF you keep up with the maintenance. Driver takes care of the car, the car takes care of the driver. Great video 🙏

[@marcusvision]

I feel like most cars are reliable now up to 75k miles with unwarranted repairs. Think the problem now is planned obsolescence like water pump and coolant changes (just for example) which in German cars can be complicated with all the electronics and hoses blocking things. But KZbin mechanic school is worth the shot to save us from labor costs.

[@WayToManyAssassins]

Only a high maintenance machine, not a bad machine.

[@rubensontale]

I just spent 2k on a coolant leak due to the cheap plastic thermostat cracking, had to replace the thermostat and hoses, the car has 38k miles on it

[@rayc.8555]

I find your videos very educational. I have been a mechanic for most of my life and am just floored by the complexity of these new cars. These cars look cools and are fast but man the repair cost must be outrageous. Thanks for doing these. Keep up the great work.

[@aluisious]

Buying a new BMW is foolish. They're made to get good reviews from dumb reviewers who don't consider ownership cost as an important factor. "This is a great car...for someone who isn't going to pay the bills for it."

[@nomadenview]

BMW = break my wallet

[@xFlared]

@@aluisious Honestly a new BMW is smarter than used one. A used one will cost much more to maintain than leasing a new one for 2-4 years.

[@jerryp2433]

Those headlights are about $1000.

[@rayc.8555]

@@xFlared I dont lease anything. I buy it. But I wouldn't buy another BMW. I dont need to own a flashy expensive car. It's not smart money.

[@stevesideris8364]

Timing chain is in the rear of engine. That's why the oil filter is buried back there closer to the oil pump.

[@speedkar99]

Whoa! I missed that one

[@--LZ---]

Seems like bmw figured out nobody does the timing on their engines even when its necessary so they integrated that into their design... they should add a design that catches and recycles all the leaked oil as well. As an e46 owner, newer bmw cars seem like jokes.

[@CadexLaw]

@@--LZ--- the B58/B48 are miles more reliable than the M54 & S54 found in the E46. I’ve owned an E46 330i and that car was horrendously unreliable & in my opinion the e46 is the generation that gave BMW a bad reputation for reliability.

[@--LZ---]

@@CadexLaw honestly if you take care of the engine, its a pretty good one. Sure, the E46 by itself has a lot of issues, and most of these cars are 20 years on the road. Mine is a 330i , its a great project car because mostly everything has been already done and documented online, so i have a lot of guides and material to work with. Plus there's an awesome aftermarket and bmw still stocks a lot of the parts, or remakes them in batches. Just got a 11.1.23 date s54 oil filter housing for an engine oil cooler for example.

[@nycupperes]

B48 and B58 are superior engines compared to not just previous BMW engines, but all car manufacturers. The “B” series engines are closed deck designs, and overbuilt on a diesel type block, the 1st generation had the lowest direct inject pressures. The second and third iterations had a single timing belt. I own a 2018 430xi convertible and 2019 740xi and both have been rock solid. Annual maintenance and run perfectly. The biggest issue is the run flats have a terrible ride, so I swap them for Michelin Pilot Sports.

[@ahmed_basim_]

Thank you for these great reviews. This is how car reviews should be not like others who review cars radios and dashboards.

[@preethamanbalagan4135]

Exactly who gives a flying f*ck about the radio and if the car had apple car play or not😂

[@fengdeng1982]

I bought a 1 series and a x5. Now I am really good about fix cars. Done the engine mount, rocket gasket, exchange cooler gasket, vanos gasket , chain tensiner, transmission gasket, front control arm, safery belt, oil pan gasket plus all regular maintenance, renew rear diff, front diff, transfer case, transmission fluid and filter, fuel filter, coolant, spark. Now I am really confident about cars.

[@speedkar99]

Wow

[@bradcomis1066]

The 3 series has always been macstrut up front. Base brakes have been basic sliding calipers like those seen here for a long time too. BMWs driving pleasure comes from the suspension tuning and chassis balance. The basic layout of the suspension on this car is the same as the E39 which came out 25 years ago. Always great to see another mechanical review from you! Good stuff even if your BMW hate hurts my fanboy heart haha

[@speedkar99]

Thanks for the clarification. I would have expected a more complex and competitive suspension setup from a brand like this. All the competition is multi-link

[@timbober1]

I saw a comment by you on the Weber auto channel. The professor was explaining CVT “transmissions”. I enjoy your content as well as his. I’m not a mechanic, I do drive cars anyone that does can learn a lot from you. Thanks man, I know you work hard to produce informative and entertaining videos glad I found you.

[@bradcomis1066]

​@@speedkar99 It is a bit strange indeed. It hasn't stopped them from getting glowing reviews and accolades for the handling and dynamics of their cars though. The suspension system of the front and rear of the E46 is even more rudimentary than post 2006 3 series, and yet it is praised as one of the all time greats. The 911 uses struts in the front too. BMW makes some pretty big profits so I suppose this helps them out.

[@chrisbradley3224]

@@speedkar99 This is the base car, the suspension is a lot nicer on an M3. It's always been a strut, but will have forged aluminum links and better geometry. I do think most of their competition is still multi-link though? Well, Euros I guess anyway. The 911 just went away from a strut this 992 generation I guess. The base 3 has never impressed me since the E36 generation.

[@dc5723]

Eurotrash.

[@Callm3]

There is a water-air intercooler integrated into the intake manifold with a separate coolant circuit. The reservoir is adjacent to the larger engine reservoir

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. I saw the coolant line going in. What I meant in the video was an air to air intercooler up front.

[@gxp99]

@@speedkar99 that's old school technology used mainly in cheap cars like the civic type r lolol

[@etiennefrancoeur35]

you know your stuff bro, great review. Wish more guys reviewing cars were as competent as you

[@speedkar99]

Thanks

[@muhsalihu]

They are mainly Journalists not Mechanics or Engineers like him.

[@TrevorsBench]

I've been wrenching on the vintage BMWs all my life. One of the things I love about those cars is easy serviceability and parts availability. That thing looks like a nightmare for the backyard mechanic. Not all of us are able to afford the shop rates even for the simple stuff. I can't imagine owning one of these without having a set of backup wheels for when it breaks down, and we all know they will sooner or later

[@purplepurplesaurasne]

They're not that difficult at all, there is a few extra steps and everything is torqued to spec, but actually working on late model BMWs isn't that bad at all so long as you know what you're getting into on the parts cost. You know what you are saving in labor which more than makes up for it. My Dad who worked on all the vintage stuff was scared of the computer part, and I keept telling him it is another tool you buy as part of the cost of ownership, and this tool tells you exactly what is wrong and where to start looking. It has been fun helping him with their most recent vehicles.

[@nathanpendleton9733]

​@@purplepurplesaurasneI agree! You hear ignorant people always talking about how complex BMW's are but in reality I find them actually quite easy to work on. I'm of course referring to their inline 6 engines as that's all I've ever worked on! You gotta love the overall simplicity of I6 engines and bmw makes the best ones! Yeah the electric water pump failures and leaky valve cover gasket can be a pain in the ass but compared to doing Audi timing chains it's actually a walk in the park!

[@zahkam7322]

They are actually really really easy to work on , I have an E30 , E46 and an F30 with the B48 engine and if you get used to where the pipes go , its pretty simple. I hate the excess use of plastic everywhere though , Those do not last long . no plastic lasts that long . But once you get a hang of these newer cars and newer engines its not bad at all . I actually find the cars very easy and logical to work on , compared to other cars , and im a complete novice on working on my cars .

[@purplepurplesaurasne]

While there is the occasional engineering WTF on servicability, for the most part they're designed to be worked on.@@nathanpendleton9733

[@docexotic]

This has the B48, a few parts can be tedious, but I would argue that this car is easier to work on than most modern American cars. Also aside from a common coolant line issue and bmw electrical issues breathing down owners necks (nothing common that I know about yet electrical wise), this drive train is incredibly solid. The b48s aren't old enough to say for sure, but on paper it should be incredibly reliable, and the ZF8 transmission is the best torque converter automatic trans you can get.

[@brightenupcc]

I've never seen so many plastic components in an engine bay. BMW is the master if cheap materials

[@hagenherrmann8204]

Excellent review, thank you! I think the B48 switched to Air-Water intercoolers so the charge air is cooled passing through a heat exchanger that is integrated into the intake manifold. that birds nest of hoses/pipes likely contains the supply/return lines to the heat exchanger in the bumper area.

[@speedkar99]

Yes I saw the coolant hose

[@great_deception]

Family members and I have been through three G20s in the last few years. Reliability was very good, minimal to no problems. All were used as daily drivers and some as work vehicles, so they racked up good miles quickly. Fuel efficient, very smooth driver, and a great engine. Interior had amazing build quality/fit and finish. Glad this car was rated as one of the most reliable sedans as per CR. I know this guy is heavily Toyota-biased so the criticism here wasn't surprising but expected.

[@speedkar99]

Thanks for your feedback. Have you had any issues with carbon buildup and direct injection? I think these cars are too new for the expensive issues to present themselves

[@great_deception]

@@speedkar99 All our BMW leases were 4-year terms, some will say this is too early to develop carbon buildup, but anyways no carbon anything issues in all the time we had our Bimmers. I also recommend Shell gas, good quality.

[@bbell6411]

I really like these videos ive never messed with bmws or german for that matter so watching these are really informative! Keep making them!

[@OberDesiah]

Simple Macpherson suspension is integral in BMW designs together with balanced weigh/50-50 distribution. Driving experience is good.

[@pancakewsx]

Rear steel subframe makes sense - it helps with weight distribution. Regarding brakes: older models had single piston calipers even on performance models. One of the biggest are 60 mm piston calipers for 360 mm dia. and 30 mm thick discs from E90 M3.

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. Isn't an aluminum subframe lighter though? If not, why are higher end cars using it?

[@johnnyblue4799]

@@speedkar99 Well, he said weight distribution not weight reduction. Intuitively it makes sense. If one end of the car is much heavier than the other it will probably affect how it drive, especially in turns. Also, being mostly rear wheel drive it can use some weight placed on the rear wheels.

[@pancakewsx]

@@speedkar99 more weight in the rear is actually beneficial here, as it helps to get closer to 50/50 weight distribution. As long as it is not unsprung weight they hit two birds with one stone - save cash and improve rear end behaviour.

[@TassieLorenzo]

I suppose, but the Alfa Romeo Giulia is all aluminium in the rear, while Jaguars even use an alunium chassis... If BMW really wanted "perfect weight distribution" (i.e., 40:60), BMW would make more mid-engined cars. For the maker of ultimate driving machines, it is kind of strange that BMW have made so few supercars or exotic sportscars.

[@Elaba_]

A couple of days ago I was driving on Route 66 and I noticed some plastic engine parts on the road. After a couple of miles I saw a smoking BMW 3 series standing next to the road. But I knew the owner was in good hands because of the fact a '94 Celica was parked in front him.

[@speedkar99]

Scotty Kilmer to the rescue !

[@thepawchoe2749]

Hahahahahahahaha

[@MRMV483]

I have had a BMW 520i G31 with the b48 since oktober 2017 and it has been dead reliable. no single (electrical) issue. Currently at 145k miles.

[@speedkar99]

Good to know! I never liked the idea of a 4 banger in a 5 series

[@MRMV483]

@@speedkar99 understandable but the B48 is totally adequate for daily driving. As much as I would love to have a B58 here in Europe they are just too expensive as emissions taxes are very steep. My 520i without ANY options except leather/heated seats was about $65k in 2017. Nowadays a barebones 540i would be about $95k.

[@thandomthembu4913]

Have you replaced any waterpump or experienced any coolant leaks?

[@MRMV483]

@@thandomthembu4913 Nope none.

[@docexotic]

@@thandomthembu4913 B48 has one coolant issue i know of. Small coolant line running from the expansion tank to in between the cylinders. $40 hose but its kind of a pain to get to. I'm going to ask my guy about replacing it ahead of time when i see him next as im about to hit 50k miles

[@tahoon2009]

As usual a REAL thorough mechanical review of the car hardly found arround, i was surprised by the cost cutting for such car category in core components like suspension system !

[@fly.into.theblue]

The world needs more mechanical reviews! Thank you

[@nathanpendleton9733]

These later model BMW are actually quite reliable. So much so that Toyota uses this engine B48 in the 4 cylinder version of the Supra and they use the beastly B58 I6 for the top spec Supra (im aware that Toyota does some tweaking on them but overall its still a BMW). You see engines overall becoming more reliable in order to meet ever so tightening emissions standards. I guess theres one positive to stricter emission. You see this directly with how BMW has gone about retaining heat management. They're able to retain the heat from the engine for something like 36hrs which helps with cold starts as they're one of the hardest on an engine! Overall good video, just FYI this engine does have an intercooler it's in the intake plenum. Would love to see some I6 tear downs!

[@speedkar99]

I have an N54 engine teardown coming soon

[@bimsetre]

Toyota does not really use BMW engines and ZF transmissions in their Supra. The Supra is a BMW inside out, and is a fantastic car, in contrary to the older Supra´s, witch only excelled in a straight line after ridiculous tuning. . Earlier Toyota also used diesel engines from BMW.

[@rogerone7387]

Thanks Sr. We'll your right, and I only love my 2010 E92 328i sport pak. Just great. I have had it now for 9 years and things are all still working fine with my con't maintenance of all mechanical systems. And the naturally aspirated straight 6 motor very smooth not to mention the hydraulic steering system for a connection to the ground effect..I have not been able to drive a more comfortable car that dose not break the bank like Ferrari or Lamborghini. Mine is just going great. And being a oil driven engine, vanos etc. With only minimal problems, I'm keeping this car until the wheels fall off.

[@speedkar99]

Very good to hear your experience, what were some major components that you had to maintain?

[@AbdulMax021]

Interesting , I always hear its not reliable. Do you disagree ?

[@nathanpendleton9733]

​@@AbdulMax021common misconception! These cars are actually quite reliable if you stay up on the scheduled maintenance and use high quality oil @ 3k-5k intervals not the 15k that BMW says! This is the absolute key for keeping a BMW happy! The people not doing this are where you hear about "BMW'S not being reliable"! These are performance oriented machines thus requiring them to be treated as such. Toyota uses both this engine in the video b48 and b58 in their Supra, so this should go to show that BMW does make very good engines (I4 and I6 engines) you just have to stay up on maintenance for them to last!

[@carthick1000]

You earned a subscriber. You have a keen eye for detail and your reviews are like the ICE version of MunroLive.

[@SDav21]

Look at recent reliability rankings. BMW is right up there. They know how to build engines and their common i4 and i6 engines are very reliable. Also, it has great handling and ride quality balance so the choices made for the suspension are clearly better than what you think. It certainly rides better than an equivalent Lexus and Acura. And a 3 series is a great long term purchase. Just service it as required.

[@waterunderthefridge6058]

i'm interested to see how the C class compares, to be honest I wouldn't expect anything too different to what we we see here. A comparison with a Lexus IS would be interesting

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. I'm gonna look out for those two to compare

[@mariosnikolaou5212]

More of this kind of videos please.

[@speedkar99]

Sure. Check out my autoshow review

[@davemarks7322]

Really good video and mighty fine brush toss at the end! Gone forever (probably).

[@speedkar99]

I found it

[@Bebetter044]

Thank you for putting mechanical review I appreciate that heavily

[@matthewbowen5841]

I'm actually genuinely surprised at how much is still serviceable on this newer platform. Much of the engineering choices limit the car's lifespan, and we know their track record. I wonder why they bothered with much of it rather than cost-cutting any real serviceability out. I figured absolutely nothing would be meant for replacement. 1 lease, 1 certified pre-owned sale, junkyard. Tidy, 6 year lifespan.

[@gameonyolo1]

Engineers aren't stupid at bmw, and they have a bunch of experience. I think for the requirements they are actually fairly repairable, or as repairable as possible. for example many engines have a top mounted oil filter for ease of access. Their requirements being cheap powerful fun. The unreliablity is from innovation and cost cutting to some degree, not due to absolute stupidity. For example the n54 became the b58 which is good enough for Toyota.

[@lashlarue7924]

@@gameonyolo1 No they aren't stupid; they know exactly how to engineer the cost out of it such that it breaks in exactly 6 years, right after the initial owner got tired of it and sold it to a stupid kid who gets left holding the bag. Ethics? Neitche danke. They know that the most profitable customers are the fools who keep coming back into the dealer showroom.

[@Nudel-nc1cp]

@@gameonyolo1 Actually B58 wasn't good enough for Toyota bcoz after numerous durability tests they told Bmw to redesign and upgrade some elements to make it reliable enough for Toyota requirements. 😏😏

[@gameonyolo1]

@@Nudel-nc1cp well my point is now in the end it is reliable

[@speedkar99]

Stop blaming engineers. We design stuff with bean counters pointing guns to our head.

[@eliamruiz8657]

I'm curious to see your review on the 2023 Prius!

[@speedkar99]

I'm waiting for the autoshow this week!

[@incyphe]

German Engineering is truly amazing. They managed to make the engine entirely out of plastics and rubbers.

[@speedkar99]

🤣

[@vladdutz20]

B48 received some interesting updates like miller cycle, mpi injectors and electric vanos. Also some 3 series use a heat exchanger in place of a traditional air to refrigerant air condenser. Some bmw have a continental integrated braking system. Also many bmw vehicles ditched the alternator from the serpentine belt and moved it in the gearbox

[@bradcomis1066]

Alternator moved to the gearbox. That is very curious! I wonder why?

[@Giuliana-w1f]

@@bradcomis1066 for, uhmmmm, customer safety, and uhhh, innovation

[@vladdutz20]

@@bradcomis1066 because they use the mild hybrid system from ZF, and that electric motor acts as a starter and a generator. Transverse engined bmw cars use a system from Magna Powertrain, integrated in the 7dct gearbox, that can supply or recover electric power on the even numbered gears, same gearbox is used on the alfa tonale, where it has been configured to run purely electrical, but that system uses a normal belt generator together with the one in the gearbox

[@bradcomis1066]

@@vladdutz20 Ahhh, mild hybrid, makes sense. Seems to me that is the correct placement for an traction motor+generator unit.

[@speedkar99]

Thanks

[@SoLA489]

I habe a 2020 330 with 87k miles and only issue I had was thermostat went out at 34k I think because I was driving all day in 110 degree weather. But I’m surprised I haven’t had any other issues. It’s been pretty reliable. But I also drive like a slow person and don’t take advantage of what the car has to offer. I will say Ive had to replace the rims 5xs because I do Lyft and drove over so many potholes.

[@KS-hq3ci]

The plastic intake manifold that sits on top of the block has a built in air cooler (so they gave up the intercooler). It would be interesting if you can dig a bit into this and let us know of your opinion.

[@g2skinny]

The intercooler is in the intake manifold air to water

[@speedkar99]

Good to know. I saw coolant lines going to it.

[@ronaldo1969]

wow bmw 3 series looks amazing

[@edhirxtrastrange]

Could you do an F30 as well? Just to learn the 'upgrade' between the generations

[@speedkar99]

Ok

[@davelowe1977]

I have the 335d Xdrive M-Sport with the 8 speed semi-automatic transmission. The handling and performance are brilliant. I'm glad that these cars have analogue gauges, proper handbrakes, proper master cylinders and not too much e;electronic crap. It's even nice to work on!

[@awaara24]

how does it have a proper handbrake if the parking brake is electronic? or are there separate shoes for the handbrake?

[@davelowe1977]

@@awaara24 The parking brake on mine is manual not electronic, but mine has the m-sport dual pot calipers.

[@awaara24]

@@davelowe1977 👍

[@speedkar99]

This one is all electronic

[@ralf716]

sam, F32 435DX here. I think F series were the last series with manual handbreak, i owned a G20 330d and this had all electric parking brake.

[@celoceanicon]

I had a 2019 330i for three years and it was great. Never had a single issue and it was fun to drive. Probably not as exciting as other BMW models (current and former) but still a great sports sedan in its own right.

[@aluisious]

Of course it was good under warranty.

[@speedkar99]

Nice to know

[@celoceanicon]

@@speedkar99 Hey man, I absolutely love your videos. They're fascinating and you do a wonderful job talking through everything.

[@Fred-F4]

was this a joke? 😂

[@celoceanicon]

@@Fred-F4 No

[@Mladjasmilic]

I was working some electrical work inside BMW service, so I have some inside information. Modern BMWs do not talk to computer locally, but they plug to internet cable and talk to BMW computer in Germany. And mechanic has to do diagnosis over Germany. If network is down during ECU programming, car is bricked and affected modules must be replaced.

[@speedkar99]

Wow!

[@azz4067]

تجارة أحتكاريه لربح المال من الزبون بأكثر قدر ممكن .. أشبه بالسرقة

[@chrisbradley3224]

This is absolutely not true.

[@chrisbradley3224]

@@speedkar99 He's full of it lol, I plug my laptop in to my M2 via OBD to ENET cable and use ISTA+ (obtained, ahem, legally) and you can do anything and everything. Flashing absolutely does not require internet access. This still applies to the new G series cars.

[@nomadenview]

@@azz4067 capitalism for you... And the rich will always rich...

[@moeanthony9308]

I would love to see a Review of the Toyota CHR since it just won top suv according to JD power

[@speedkar99]

LOL That thing?

[@moeanthony9308]

@@speedkar99 Thing? Bro beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Love or hate but.... you would be surprised how amazingly it drives. Yes it won most dependable car overall along with Lexus in two categories , look it up. You should already know why. In fact any Service dealer for Toyota say they never see any issue and just as good as a 4 runner. Facts. Car Care Nut on you tube said the same. Chee Iam surprised you are laughing since all your tear downs,. Ancient technology works wonders my friend.

[@thatshortkid310]

@@moeanthony9308 that’s because it has the same drivetrain as a Corolla. My mom had one before she took it back to the dealer because how cramped the inside felt. Don’t even get me started on the back seats. I don’t see that car around for long

[@moeanthony9308]

@@thatshortkid310 its not the same drivetrain as the current Corolla. The vehicle is designed for 2 passengers , thats all some need rather than driving a bus suv

[@moeanthony9308]

@@japanwatchconnection Its not a joke my friend. You read too much bs and likely never even sat in one.

[@RuthlessFocus_]

Please do one for BMW F20/21 I like your videos , I watch them a lot , I am an aspiring car reviewer! Good work as always

[@speedkar99]

Thanks! Start reviewing the cars around you and post them up!

[@RuthlessFocus_]

@@speedkar99 thanks man you doing an amazing job ! Lots of respect from Kenya 🇰🇪

[@TheEelnoraa]

3 series has always used front and multi link rear, even on the M models. Geometry and setup are making up the deficit from not using double wishbone. It performs better than Acura and Infiniti for sure.

[@windnsea03]

E46 and earlier 3-series were not multilink up front but a simple control arm.

[@TassieLorenzo]

The E30 including E30 M3 wasn't multi-link rear, it was semi trailing arms IIRC.

[@Jcauto-t4r]

I own a G20 and is a great car, I must say I don’t abuse it. Great driving car.

[@uhtred7860]

0:35 Ive seen some untidy, "messy" engine bays before, but well done BMW, top effort for top spot.👏👏👏😆

[@speedkar99]

🙂

[@revvolutions]

Ugliest ice seen in a long time, no love from the engineers

[@OrganicWheat]

I rented one and liked it. Didnt even realize it was using that type of suspension.

[@speedkar99]

I didn't realize until I looked under myself.

[@theghostofloki]

The timing chains are actually on the back of the engine... means if you have a timing chain or cam issue? it's an engine out job. Luckily the B48 and B58 are very reliable not many reported issues with the valvetrain. The block is a closed deck and they moved back to a mechanically driven water pump.

[@speedkar99]

Good to know!

[@MassimoTava]

How does the C class compare?

[@leonflpqzhz4765]

This. I'd love to see you review a Mercedes

[@speedkar99]

I'd like to as well. My eyes will be on the lookout

[@MegaSomveer]

Happy that you’re moving up the pecking order.

[@nickchannel5364]

The old BMW 320i was very reliable, used oil, but I just kept a couple of quarts in the trunk to top off, after checking the level with, wait for it, a dipstick.

[@speedkar99]

And now there's no dipstick to tell engine oil health or level

[@gio5898]

Absolutely amazing video man. Love it.

[@mlnd18]

what a briiliant video! v few of these on YT, thanks v much. wish i had this wealth of knowledge on my BMW

[@speedkar99]

You are welcome. I learned alot on this one too

[@xuanzheng1049]

Are you living around Castleford Rd in Brampton? I can hear the arriving plane 737 distinctive sound and the downwind Pearson arrival path is directly over Brampton castlemore Rd...

[@speedkar99]

I'm even closer. 2km from the runway

[@signupsignup1648]

Please do us a favor and review more complicated cars such 911(991/992/996) or Panamera or S class or 7 series or Land Rover Range Rover

[@speedkar99]

Good idea

[@versailledoctrina7646]

Is there any specific reason why they did things the way they did? (Example would be exhaust mounted to transmission and other stuff)

[@On2wheels94]

Well the exhaust being mounted to the engine and transmission means there would be LESS twisting stress on the exhaust by connecting it to both locations as the engine and trans will rotate similarly.

[@speedkar99]

But they did it after the flex pipe. That doesn't make sense!

[@konstantintomilin1826]

Timing chain is actually in the rear on these

[@speedkar99]

Thanks for the correction

[@ubaldc]

I'm still driving two F30's, one n20, one b48 and in general have been great cars with only normal maintenance items. I will buy another when it is time. It's all about what you prefer.

[@speedkar99]

Any issues?

[@mickeydudes95]

@@speedkar99 starter failure on the n20, while under warranty. The n20 has 115k. The n48 model had strut bushings that failed due to clicking noise. There appears to be some years 2017- that other models had similar failures. Your channel is well done. You can think on the fly and explain the mechanics. Thank you

[@chetanjiva8874]

I have a 2015 built bmw X3 with n20 engine that has 53k miles. No issues so far. I use 0w20 and slightly over fill since it is very thin oil for bmw. Upside of thin oil is good flow rate which gets to the top much quicker and flows easier through the oil filter and helps keep the temps down. Just my thoughts and seems to be working.

[@Andrew-vn3zh]

Would like to see Merc C Class or Audi A4 to compare to this

[@speedkar99]

I'd guess the A4 is worse.

[@australiantruckspotting8883]

@@speedkar99I’d like to see an A4 review if you ever get the chance. I have a 2017 B9 model.

[@trqrider94]

Is he holding a toothbrush? This guys is amazing! Love the details across all his videos

[@speedkar99]

Yes it's a toothbrush! Thanks

[@marlu6373]

well the BMW are sensitive cars they need good brushed fluoride cleaning

[@MrNikoid]

It's his trademark!

[@greathey1234]

I love my n52 325i BMW as it seems the last properly reliable BMW. There were issues with 2.0 turbo engines especially the chain guides that can completely destroy the engine. Later ones are better but still not as reliable as port injected non turbo straight sixes

[@speedkar99]

N52 was the last of the better engines (they still had their issues lol). After that they went all turbo

[@poguemahone5476]

I cracked a piston on a 2006 320d with only 70k Kms on the clock. Only engine I've ever had fail and I've driven over half a million miles now.

[@MeanBlueSpider]

1:14 switched to filming through a long box for style? Would have loved to see the main battery in the trunk, also. Great vid.

[@speedkar99]

The video accidentally filmed portrait and I had to crop and rotate. Sorry I didn't get the trunk battery

[@uhtred7860]

I made the very bad mistake of buy a BMW once, an E90 M3 with the S65 4.0L. I bought it when they were still a current model and the faults which are now well documented were not common knowledge. Mine had the Throttle Body Actuators fail, and the dreaded rod bearings starting making noises, when i replaced them they were heavily worn. Fixed it, sold it, bought an IS-F Lexus which ive had for 7 years, and it hasn't missed a beat.

[@chrisbradley3224]

Yeah but the IS-F engine is meh and the transmission sucks. If you just do the rod bearings and throttle actuators (easy DIY, the actuators that is), you have a much better car to drive. It's a V8 with an 8400 RPM redline, and maintenance is the price you pay for that. You couldn't pay me to drive an IS-F with a crappy automatic vs a DCT or 6MT M3.

[@speedkar99]

Not everyone makes decisions based on driving experience or likewise financial means. To each their own. I'd prefer the Lexus if it were me.

[@chrisbradley3224]

@@speedkar99 True, there is definitely room for different priorities. They were both $60k+ cars new and guzzle gas like crazy, so I didn't really consider the maintenance cost differential as significant.

[@uhtred7860]

@@chrisbradley3224 Here in NZ we get a lot of 2nd hand cars from Japan as we drive on the same side of the road. The BMW i bought had only 15,000 km (about 9500 miles) and was less than a year old, i got it for about 1/3 of the price of a new one. Same thing with the ISF it was a 2nd hand Japanese car, they were about 160,000 NZ dollars when new😳I got mine for 30,000. Just needed to change the infotainment system to a modern non Japanese speaking one🤣(the bmw already had it done by the dealer) The 2UR-GSE 5.0 litre in the ISF is easily a match for the 4.0 in the BMW, and is far more reliable, the handling at track speeds is a step behind, but on the road its not and issue, The auto? a manual would make that car epic, but at least its a good solid box that has a rep for not giving trouble, and again for daily driving on the road, which is what the car is used for its fine. I'm just waiting and hoping to find a nice low Km J import Alfa Romeo giulia quadrifoglio, and get back into Euro money pits.😄😄

[@adnsmusic3842]

@@speedkar99Japanese cars are ugly with cheap interior. BMW and Mercedes Benz make the best cars on Earth

[@AnthonyJoh]

How do you feel about the build quality and longevity of modern engines compared to say engines from the 80/90s?

[@greathey1234]

Direct injection and turbos will only make an engine less reliable

[@speedkar99]

I say the 2000's were the best for engines. Like Toyota's 1NZ for example. Simple, reliable, light weight, economical, but not heavy and over built as the 80's stuff.

[@NalinKhurb]

@@greathey1234 Hey I'd like to know more about how direct injection affects reliability

[@mrsargemeister]

@@NalinKhurb Soot build up + higher pressures +mechanical high pressure fuel pump = more problems less reliable

[@greathey1234]

@@NalinKhurb carbon build up on intake valves mainly but also issues with high pressure fuel pump. I know I own an Ecoboost mustang

[@bogdanarsene9602]

Can you please detail the need of having a secondary battery and what it does?

[@elstimate]

hey pal, good video as always. however, the black carpet under the engine is for noise reduction, not for keeping the engine warm..... :D some bmw fanboy will treat this car as his baby, but actually, that's not a blanket :D thats for noise reduction (airflow and road noise from below) cheers

[@speedkar99]

I made a joke about the carpet. The engine doesn't need to be warmer than it already is.

[@AR-pm9nv]

I dislike BMW’s, but I enjoy your informational reviews. 👍🏻

[@Romif_SK]

Single piston caliper is US only. I guess they figured out that with the speed limits in US you don't need more. In Europe they put 4 piston calipers on the 330i as standard.

[@Fred-F4]

great channel and great content! keep it up man

[@speedkar99]

Thanks! Do you prefer more reviews or more teardowns?

[@Fred-F4]

@@speedkar99 teardowns are more interesting to me, but your reviews are also solid!

[@Henry_Jones]

Ive always wanted a bmw but dont want to deal with expensive repairs so I drive Hondas.

[@speedkar99]

Good choice

[@Ficon]

McPherson is economy car stuff. Which is why the best-steering cars you can buy (911 and Cayman) use… McPherson struts. It’s about the tuning, geometry is not a magical fix.

[@theyadmire511]

So why did Porsche change the 911 GT3 suspension to Double Wishbone, if McPherson Struts was so good?! It’s because Double Wishbone is superior to McPherson struts no matter how much tuning you do. This is why the 5 series and up uses Double Wishbone.

[@Ficon]

@@theyadmire511 To extract the extra 2% performance on the racetrack under specific camber changes at the limit because it’s a lap time arms race. F30 had double wishbone front and some of the worst steering feel of any modern car. G20 with “inferior” suspension is still garbage like all modern BMWs but much improved. The point is that McPherson bad, double wishbone good is not an automatic concussion.

[@theyadmire511]

@@Ficon The F30 3 series doesn’t use a Double Wishbone front suspension. It uses a McPherson Strut.

[@Ficon]

@@theyadmire511 Ah yes, you are right. It was so disappointing that I wiped 3 years of ownership out of memory. Well then, F30 vs. 991. Both strut cars, worst vs. best steering.

[@speedkar99]

Understand your point. McPherson suspension is definitely the cheaper option and shouldn't be ruled out, I just didn't expect that on a 50k premium car especially when its competitors are offering double wishbone. Multi-link allows OE's to dial in the tuning a bit more which is more important on a 3 series than say a CUV so why not?.

[@rayc.8555]

I have a 2000 E46 that i have had for 15 years. So simple to work on. Its nowhere as nice or as fast as this but its a fun car and i can fix it myself. Wouldnt mind a newer beemer but this would be a nightmare for me to work on.

[@thetechlibrarian]

Even being single piston the rotors are still pretty big for a car if this size at 13.5 inches

[@speedkar99]

Yes

[@leom00n79]

So is 330i a reliable car in general long term? According to Consumer Reports, it’s recommended and reliable. I found a 2022 model on Autotrader, but I am still debating if I should. Are there owners out there who can advise me about the reliability and if it’s worth getting it.

[@speedkar99]

Maybe mechanically reliable...but what about the he electronics and basic maintenance that's a bunch more expensive than mainstream cars?

[@leom00n79]

@@speedkar99 thank you for responding. What about Audi A4? Have you done a mechanical review for that engine? That model is also recommended by Consumer Reports for its reliability. It maybe a little cheaper than BMW to maintain since VW parts can be found in there. What do you think? BMW 330i or AUDI A4??? Or should I stick to LEXUS IS 300 for a long term reliability???

[@great_deception]

Our household has been through 3 G20s since 2019 when it came out. Overall very reliable, all were driven as daily drivers and some for work purposes. Never a single breakdown or failure of any major component. If I recall well, it just went in for some software updates and 1 recall. I have a friend who owns a G20 for about 4/5 years and it has treated him very well. The ride quality, handling, interior quality and features are amazing in this car. Very safe also in a crash.

[@Fiero1984]

@@speedkar99 Correct! I just picked up a 2019 330i with only 15,000km with it, but the sunroof failed to open and keyless doesn't work sproradically. Document from NHTSA shows the Body Domain Controller needs replacement, and it costs US$2200 from the dealer in Hong Kong.

[@911mporsche]

Do a review of a very basic barebones car like a Mitsubishi mirage or a Nissan versa. I’d love to see that

[@jackyl.pattersonjr.leading6944]

I am looking for an x3 with the b48 engine. That is the only problem that worries me is the amount of plastic they are using. I’ve seen oil filter housings cracking, heat management modules leaking and when they leak they pour coolant on the ground, leaving you stranded is what I’ve been seeing a lot on KZbin. I have a BMW N52 which I love I’ve owned it for over 13 years and do my own maintenance. Never had these problems. I’m considering an X5 F15 generation with the N55 engine.

[@hetanosgago9508]

Check new honda and toyota engines there is more plastics, valve cover intake manifold and all pipes everywhere plastic. I love n55 engine, I got x3 35i, it's awesome car, I got 111,000 km and the car still like new, suspension is amazing, unlike Japanese rusty clunky suspension and noisy wheel bearings.

[@MrEquequ]

longtime bmw fan/owner here. Turns out n55's fail as well, I sold a f10 535i and at 90k it apparently needed a new engine.

[@nathanpendleton9733]

​@@MrEquequMy n55 has almost 130k miles and its been stage 2+ tuned since 40k!!! Still runs silky smooth like the day I first got her! I just make sure I do oil changes every 5k miles and don't beat on her till she's properly warmed up! Are you the original owner? If not did you get all the service records?

[@great_deception]

Who isn't using plastic engine parts and components ??????

[@branden9366]

Can we get a 2022 hyundai tucson?😊

[@speedkar99]

Maybe if I find one....

[@EricAmazon]

Great review SpeedKar! Any chance you can review a 4th Generation Lexus RX hybrid please?

[@thetechlibrarian]

I had one of these for two weeks when I went on vacation and let me tell you a boy. Does it drive sweet that ZF8 speed is the best auto box I’ve ever driven and I’ve driven a lot of cars except for super cars. I’m not saying it’s the fastest thing out there but 5.5 is definitely no slouch and 120mph felt perfect safe claim and was only turning 3k rpm

[@speedkar99]

Yeah it feels fast and shifts fast. But of turbo lag and on the highway it flattens out

[@thetechlibrarian]

I’m gonna have to go back and look at my pictures. I could’ve swore mine had a sound deadening mat under the hood. i’ve always loved BMW from my childhood when I used to be able to buy E30s clean for $3000, and they were reliable and well aware of the common issues however, regardless of its long-term reliability, this car really does drive sweet I took it though the West Virginia mountains and have made that trip multiple times and this car performed the best always felt safe,

[@brandonbogart7195]

Rams transmissions were so problematic they have been using Zf transmissions for years now

[@brandonbogart7195]

They switched from their own to Zf for a quality reliable transmission. Other companies use Zf also. I enjoy them and tons of car enthusiasts/mechanics say they are some of the best in the business

[@thetechlibrarian]

​@@brandonbogart7195right. But even this its still a Chrysler made transmission it's just licensed from ZF

[@reustudio2868]

Thanks for the video! You rock!

[@midnightmurk]

His comment about the engine brackets killed me… 😂

[@speedkar99]

It's so true... Hyundai does it too

[@roymoorman5990]

"behind that drivebelt is going to be the timing chain" .... Noo sir! Timing chain is on the back of course , because BMW's have a great reputation for timing chain reliability. Especially with their 4 cylinder engines.

[@quinty26]

Timing chain at the back of the engine. BMW- 'Break My Wallet'.

[@speedkar99]

Thanks for the correction. That's a pretty bad design

[@madman3556]

Interesting to note that it is, in fact, front wheel steer!

[@andrewsmactips]

He was pointing out that the rack and the tie rods are ahead of the wheel instead of behind the wheel, which is more usual.

[@pilotboy2612]

@@andrewsmactips I imagine that's done so the brakes can be placed on the opposite side - towards the center of the car for better balance.

[@speedkar99]

Front steer - rack is in front the axle. Most rwd cars are layed out like this

[@pilotboy2612]

@@speedkar99 Is there any benefits to handling either way?

[@thodoris_kou]

What do you think about BMW G20 engines? Planning to buy a 2021 3-Series because of the phenomenal ride quality and i would like to know if this engine will hold up well for about 10 years with proper maintenance.

[@maziarzarea2540]

M340 b58 only

[@shahrukhbakar3248]

BMW has truly lost its way. The lack of a manual transmission option option in the regular 3-series is a major disappointment. I grew up with an E36 which had its own issues but the car is highly serviceable and the drivetrain is very solid.

[@chrisbradley3224]

The take rates doomed the manual. The buyers spoke :(.

[@speedkar99]

It's not BMW's fault the manual doesn't exist. It's lazy north american buyers

[@chrisbradley3224]

@@speedkar99 Actually it's funny but North America has the highest take rate for BMW manuals. It's the only reason the manual exists in the M cars. The M2 had 50% manual take rate in the US, but less than 10% in Europe.

[@NadirDakka]

I've only heard good reviews, what would you rate this vehicle 1-10 in overall reliability?

[@GamingHistory.]

What are your impressions about the e90 330i

[@rpenvasa]

can you do for bmw n20

[@aldeacristian4582]

It has an intercooler it's just that it is a charge air cooler not an air to air one Also the timing chain is the flywheel part at the back of the engine That car DOES NOT have 700km on it, judging by those brake discs in the front, at least 10-20k on it

[@michaelbezoski3096]

That baby was really pushing some water out of the exhaust when you gave it some rpm (funny). Nice car but I can't imagine the flat rate of the mechanics. Whoa. Another well done explanation SK99. Amazing there are so many engineered ways just to do the same thing (go down the road).

[@einfelder8262]

Every petrol engine does the same. I guess you never looked.

[@michaelbezos2969]

It was a joke. You know or may never heard "running the piss out of it".

[@michaelsera746]

@speedkar99 Since you are doing higher end reviews, would love a Cadilac ct4 mechanical review. Thx

[@speedkar99]

I'll keep that in mind

[@g20bullet]

what coolant would you recommend for this car.

[@hetanosgago9508]

I owned 3 bmw for years, I had n52, n20 and now I have n55 engine, I never had any problems with bmw, never burned oil. Suspension bullet proof, unlike Japanese, rusty clunky with noisy wheel bearings. BTW new honda toyota engines has more plastic on their engines.

[@nathanpendleton9733]

I agree! I have 130k on my n55 and it's been stage 2 + tuned since 40k! Still runs like new and doesn't burn oil either! Admittingly I did just notice my oil filter housing starting to leak but that's actually quite good considering I've never had to change it! I'm sure you're loving the power coming from n20 and n52?!

[@hetanosgago9508]

@nathanpendleton9733 n20 has more power than n52 but I love n52 amazing sound and smooth feeling . N20 doesn't feel like that because it's 4cyl. But n55 and of course b58 it's a top. About oil filter housing, it's normal, but you have to change gaskets before oil start to leak on alternator.

[@great_deception]

Don't even get me started with Japanese cars and rust, including low quality paints with failing clear coat which eventually leads to rust. I've seen too much of it.

[@oladimejiorekoya4995]

good review

[@speedkar99]

Thanks

[@MrSamPhoenix]

I was really hoping he’d get his hands on an Acura TLX.

[@speedkar99]

Can't find Honda's

[@MrSamPhoenix]

@@speedkar99 you can’t find them?

[@unlearningcommunism4742]

They have always used that style of suspension at the front. It's not bad, nor it's "budget".

[@speedkar99]

I'd say it's not as dynamic as the double wishbone setup.

[@unlearningcommunism4742]

@@speedkar99 in theory - yes. In practice however - M3

[@fly.into.theblue]

MacPherson strut is budget

[@unlearningcommunism4742]

@@fly.into.theblue C6 has leaf springs... Also works in that case

[@Proudarse]

Are these 2018/2019 3 Series reliable?

[@Pmjs]

How reliable is the 2.0T in the 2013 X1 Xdrive?

[@ifgoodmenstaysilent6496]

How do you have fog lights on your sportline 330i?

[@tonytodieguez5077]

Please do a infiniti q50 vr30

[@speedkar99]

I have done that. Check out my Infiniti Q50 review

[@IvyMike.]

The easy access to the radiators is purely accidental, the reason I say that is they are STILL putting oil filters in stupid places.

[@speedkar99]

They design the car around the oil filter location because the lubrication system doesn't change with the car's body