BMW N55 Engine Diagnostics/Problems - Everything You Need To Know (X1, 135i, 335i, 435i, 535i)

[@Ashley_van_Schooneveld]

If you maintain you oil change intervals to 5000 to 6000 miles max you can significantly extend the life of your valve cover, oil pan and oil filter housing gaskets. Also your VANOS solenoids and rod bearings.

[@TecKnowTech]

Also with tuning you can lower the coolant temp from 230f to 200f and that will also extend the life of all your plastics components.

[@prosperbeats9955]

@@TecKnowTech best to just switch out most of the plastic components, like the charge pipe

[@SinlowMusic]

My 2015 435i coupe (N55 EWG) has 160k miles. Still runs like new and hella' fun. Things replaced; valve cover, water pump, belts/pulleys, coils, charge pipe, fluids. Pretty common sports car/BMW stuff. Love the car to death.

[@kjhnsn7296]

Did you change on failure or as part of regular maint?

[@chiiiman]

Listening to Gareth talk about BMWs is so relaxing before bed...

[@codycallahan9821]

me rn

[@toux8210]

Gay

[@viscountslappy5085]

Especially if you don't have one, so all the horror stories he's telling don't apply to you.

[@209euro2]

😂😂😂

[@hchaud5267]

got a 2016 435xi coupe, 189,000 km have changed oil filter housing, valve cover, transmission fluid with pan, drive belt, transfer case fluid, battery, spark plugs, brakes, tires, headlight bulb, anti freeze and brake fluid, diff fluid , oil change every 5-7k car runs solid

[@DigitalDissident]

Thanks for summarizing why the N55 is superior to the N54.

[@CDMac09]

subbed. Please more N55 videos and maybe on variants of the N55? Awesome video.

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks Cody, plenty more N55 content on the way!

[@AndysoHandy]

Post more about the n55 in the M2 please!!

[@era836]

More N55 video please

[@jonteturci9813]

Amazing. Had 2 n54s & on my 2nd n55 right now. Spot on video with everything absolutely love it. My 135i n55 is right now at 250000 & first issue ever so far was turbos which I’m doing this week. Aside from that the car has been fbo and tuned for over 100000km and has ran mint. Surprisingly

[@cali_cal]

what oil and weight do you use?

[@fcpeuro]

That's very impressive, Jon! Happy to hear you've had a good experience with the N55!

[@jonteturci9813]

@@cali_cal generally use bmw's or if I was ever in a tight situation liquimolly but rarely ever does that happen. & I do 6.5l sometimes add a tiny bit extra but not required only ive done recently.

[@efthimios]

2011 owner here with 60K miles. Just developed valve cover leak. Smoke smell and all. I did plugs and coils in the passed, im tempted to do it myself but part of me just wants to have peace of mind take to dealer and have them take care of. I just want t confirm the price included the new valve cover bc i would want that replaced. The car did have the oil filter gasket leak thankfully when the car was under warranty like 30K miles and the dealer took care of it. Otherwise no major issues besides a cracked radiator. Love my 2011 335. I love Gareths videos hes such a pro. I bought my plugs and Eldor coils from FCP and tackled it thanks to Gareths videos.

[@fcpeuro]

Definitely a good idea to replace the valve cover for piece of mind! Glad you like Gareth's videos, thank you for the support, Herakles!

[@positivethinking2721]

I'm a FCP customer. Love your store. Well, the good news is, I had followed the steps in your video for the ofhg (535i f10) and got her done. Bled the coolant system and the last step is to prime the engine oil. Instead of removing the injectors and coils and/or plugs, I had removed two fuses to the fuel pump (I believe they were #139 & #184). When I had pressed the ignition, the car started and quickly ran out of gas but I didn't expect that to occur. So, I put he fuses back in and disconnected the DME module (closest to the firewall) that disables the fuel and injector rail. Pressed the ignition and the engine turned for the 3 (10) secs just like in your video. The bad news is, I'm unable to reinstall the DME connector with the slider---the slider works fine. The top module fits right over the bottom part but the the slider only slides 1/2 way back in. Are there any clips on the ends of the connector that need to be lifted with a pick tool to secure the top part to the bottom so the pins connect? I don't want to force it. Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. It's the final detail providing the fuel pump will still get to the fuel to the injectors or do I have to prime the injectors? Great video by the way! thank in advance for your help. Ugh!

[@WesxxHAVOCxx32]

I had a water pump, cracked valve cover, oil filter housing gasket, and pulley failure all before 60k on an F25. Has been great for another 70k but compared to my N52 powered vehicles it has been much more expensive to run.

[@dsong2006]

i had the water pump/t-stat, pcv valve leak(part of the valve cover), valve cover gasket leak in a n52 E85 z4 3.0si, so not much better tbh

[@Shade_Tree_Mechanic]

Any cam ledge bearing issues?

[@DiscoR53]

I’ve had 95% of all the problems that can happen is this video. The strangest one was the high pressure fuel pump shaft breaking in half, anyway I love [135i DCT with M sport package] the car so spending the money wasn’t an issue.

[@57Joe]

This is a great video, and I love my 2011 535i, but you'd think for all the German quality and the price these cars cost, the service life on these parts would be longer. I have just under 150K miles on mine and the notion of all of these gaskets, pumps, etc., checking out at 100K miles or under is bonkers to me. Especially when my POS 08 Ford Escape continues to chug along at 230K miles on the clock with just regular oil changes, and my classics run reliably despite being 60+ years old.

[@JPDenali]

Based on what you said, the Escape doesn't seem like such a POS

[@waermelon5770]

@@JPDenaliThe escape is a reliable POS. The bimmer is a questionably reliable high performance sports/luxury car.

[@FeR-kt1jt]

planned obselescence $$$$

[@twinscrolled]

Couple of things: The rotary style HPFP was used until March of 2012, so for about two years in the E9X N55's, the N55 uses two different injectors (not sure what build date that change was made), and the F8XM3/M4 plugs (RB ZMR5TPP330) are the same heat range as the N55 BOSCH ZR5TPP33S spark plugs. Great video though!

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks for pointing those out, Twin Scrolled! Glad you like the video!

[@Avucs]

In California(I am not sure in other states/countries), the warranty on the valve cover gasket is 8 years OR 100k miles. A lot of people diy the repair, and I was about to... but I got mine changed for free at the dealership. I have a 2014 M235i and it started to leak and would pool up and drip right onto the down pipe. I would smell oil burning and even saw smoke pouring out through the hood while driving. Posting this for anyone who might be in the same position I was!

[@PutTheCookieDown]

Is this applicable to an n55 bought out of state even though I reside in California or only car initially bought in the state ?

[@JF-pf9hx]

@@PutTheCookieDown It’s a result of calling back and lawsuits. I don’t think it has anything to do with CA. A similar case happened on water pump.

[@alectravis-daugherty3095]

Wow, I didnt expect to watch the video and have a history lesson with my own N55... Having ptsd flashbacks of all the things Ive had to replace on my 130kmile N55. Not to mention that white e84 in the background is my same car...

[@cameronrussell9362]

I wish FCP Euro was my local shop!

[@Rock-Bottem1982]

Just had my 2011 335xi(73,800 miles)) at a BMW dealer on 5/19/22, I bought my 335 at CarMax in 2018 and got the highest warranty they offer(which was $4,000) which lasts 4 years or 125,000 miles. Anywho, I blew my charge pipe a couple weeks ago(im running MHD tuning software state 1+), and never upgraded my stock charge pipe so she literally blew apart. I upgraded the charge pipe and saw my oil filter housing to be leaking oil. My warranty expires in December 2022, so I figured "what the hell", let me bring it to BMW, have them give my car a good inspection, and see what they find. I told the Service Advisor about my leak, and told him I have an aftermarket warranty, and for them to give my car a good once over, and call in what they find to my warranty company to check coverage. He told me that warranty companies dont cover oil leaks, as my profession is also Service Advisor(at a Honda Dealer), I told him to diagnose my car, and call my claim in. Anywho, they looked at my car, found the oil filter housing leaking, and also valve cover gasket leaking, and he recommended replacing the valve cover gasket and valve cover, he then said that warranty companies dont cover leaks, I then told him to start the claim anyways, and see what they say(I knew my warranty would cover leaks, as I called them already to check coverage). So, $2,400 later($1,700 of that was labor), my oil leaks were covered by my warranty minus my deductible. Moral of the story, Ive been in the automotive industry professionally for 18 years, I knew a $4,000 warranty was expensive, but knew the potential issues I might have with my car. Has my $4,000 warranty paid for itself yet, no, but my oil pan may be leaking too, so once I get that replaced too(under coverage), yes, that $4,000 was well spent. Ohh, and I've only driven my car 6,000 miles in 4 years too

[@BenPhamily]

Very knowledgeable and analytical. Thank you for listing all unforeseen problems with the N55 engine. I wished he came up with the total $ to do all of these services to keep your BMW in good shape at all time. Now, it comes to sense and money. Shall we just retire this BMW, get a newer one, or get a brand new BMW to save us from all of these troubles.

[@fcpeuro]

You probably wont experience all these troubles, especially in one period of time. If your BMW is healthy and running well, no reason to retire it! Plus if you have any issues, we have your back here at FCP Euro!

[@Jasongy827]

I wish I had a ware house full of mechanics tools, I drive a e46 3 series I took it to my friend shop. I’m so addicted to bmw cars I just want to get the f80 e60 e92 lol my e46 taught me a lot about engineering, and doing it diy with my homie was a great way to spend my day.

[@yourfavoritecio]

My 2014 740li xdrive has an N55.. didn't see that F01/F02 in the comments. So far I've replaced the oil filter housing gaskets, belt, pulleys, tensioner, plugs, transmission fluid & filter all from FCP Euro. Sometimes I find myself just browsing the website looking for something to replace next 😂.

[@fcpeuro]

Atleast you're staying on top of it Dr. Mel! That kind of shopping can be considered "preventative" or "paranoid" ^.^

[@kenlipper874]

Great video! This guy is insanely knowledgeable!

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks, Ken! That's part of the reason why Gareth's head is so big!

[@slscamg]

Also F30 specific (I think) the little coolant hose from the tank to the upper radiator hose. Breaks right at the 90 degree angle.

[@fcpeuro]

Matthew Sahd , very true those right angles can get brittle and split!

[@deangelowashington1321]

Very true happened to me

[@obihornchen6508]

Not really F30 specific, had it break on my E92 some months ago...

[@magincap70]

@@obihornchen6508 you look at them funny and they snap....x3, x5 3, 5 any bmw from what....2008? 2006 to 2013? Bmws rule. I'm starting to question my sanity in buying them. 🙃

[@deboss8998]

my radiator is leaking and this may be it

[@Dogtrio]

I put one step colder spark plugs into my lightly modded f10 and it runs sooo much smoother. It could be that my old ones were at the end of their life but the new ngks run super well.

[@errolstewart5324]

Gareth... Awesome video. Very informative and clear and concise descriptions of the various components. I have 2 issues i wanted to pick your brain on... 1. I owned my 2011 335i 6 weeks and unfortunately... I experienced the serpentine belt getting ingested by the the crankshaft pulley. Very common problem apparently although I had never even heard of such a thing before it actually happened to me. I know that happened because I opened up my oil cap to put oil in my car and look down in the timing gears I pulled out a foot-and-a-half long thread of rubber coated string from the previous serpentine belt. Not good at all. However as you stated in the video the only way to really do it right would be to take out the motor and clean out the main bearings and the entire motor really. Otherwise you run the risk of having chunks of rubber clogging your various channels for lubricant the oil pan. However that's a daunting task for me which I am not about to undertake and I do not have the money to pay a shop to tear my entire block and rebuild my motor. And not only is it not in my budget, also seen and heard too many horror stories from Associates who have had their bimmers serviced at the dealerships, and the work done was completely poorly performed and shotty. if I'm going to trade that much money for that type of workmanship I might as well do it myself. And as horribly abusive as it may sound, I've been driving it as if nothing happened, just changing the oil and praying I don't experience other problems. What would you recommend I do after experiencing this near catastrophe. This happened at 82000 miles and I am now at a 110000 miles having changed the oil three times since then. 2nd issue was I'm confused as to what motor I actually have in my car. everywhere I've looked and anyone I've asked tells me it's an n55. When I look inside the door stamp my car was manufactured in April of 2010 which I believe was still n54 being used in the cars. Regardless though, It was sold as a 2011 model 335i. Everywhere I look it seems that in 2011 the n55 was used and went to single turbo. But lo and behold my 2011 335i has an n55 with twin turbo from the factory. I don't understand it's like hybrid between the n55 and the n54. Could you please look into this and explain this confusing situation. After digging deeper, I'm thinking that my car may actually be a 335IS. Is that a possibility? Any info You might have would be much appreciated. Thanks again for the great video and keep up the awesome work, you guys rock down there at FCP Euro.

[@dannytheduck7682]

You have the n55, the engine cover says “twin power turbo” it’s a twin scroll turbo which isn’t 2 turbos, I have a 2011 335i as well 👌🏽

[@OGYELLOW]

335is is infact an n54 engine.

[@ZillaFullBoost]

Very informative, I buy all my products from FCP Euro. Can't beat that lifetime warranty!

[@fcpeuro]

Glad you found the video informative ZillaFullBoost! Happy to be there for you when you need parts, and after they're on your car!

[@patricioelosua5886]

Something you missed in my opinion is the ChargePipe and Inlet Pipe. The CP isn't a question about if, but rather when it will fail. Great video!

[@f3irty278]

Pato Elosua agree on CP, but inlet pipe no

[@loyd4you]

I wach this after i just got an 535i and to be fair, i don't think that there is something on that list to scared of. Most of those parts fail in other cars aswell but it's good to know on what do you need to keep an eye

[@AnNguyen-ky4do]

First comment here. My N55 on a 2015 X5 xDrive35i (F15) has been rock solid so far at 65k miles. Did oil change every 6k miles myself by the N55 oil kit and followed all maintenance items. Just performed spark plugs change, coolant, brake fluid, and transfer case replacement. Great info here as items to watch out for, or do as preventative maintenance, as I want to keep the car for as long as I possibly can.

[@fcpeuro]

An Nguyen, a lot of the big ticket items here can be mitigated with consistent preventative maintenance that it seems like you're already doing. We are actually doing a video speaking specifically to that type of maintenance, intervals, suggestions, costs, etc. I'm sure you've experience it all first hand though! Keep that N55 happy and healthy, and you'll be able to hold onto that car for a long time to come. 65k is still young ;-)

[@guanfeifeng6530]

@@fcpeuro just wait for your "maintenance, intervals, suggestions, costs" video. Thank you !

[@Kosmoz86]

both HPFP'umps cost the same, and old one is not for a handfull of months, whole E90 lineup came with it, new type started on F series only. E84 X1 had it changed somewhere in 2012.

[@hjd5973]

you forgot to mention the 640i in the captions in the title, also engined with the N55. I also missed the coolant tank leakage, happens quite often I believe. Great vid!

[@fcpeuro]

You're right, HJD, glad you like the video!

[@TheCinderellaman10]

What about the f20/f21, m135i they also have the n55, but I've heard bmw ironed out the weak points in the f20/f21

[@tyronehernandez9962]

I bought a 2011 535i with 65k in 2020, and I had almost all of these failures within a years time. I know it was the previous owners on how they maintained the car. All in all, I still love the car. I take it to a BMW certified shop and would buy another in a heartbeat!

[@nickmaffei4321]

How much did you end up spending in repairs for the first year?

[@iAlwaysSpeakTheTruth]

@@nickmaffei4321 for me, my n55 has costed me almost 6k in 7 months.

[@RexNathanChan]

Are you sure it was maint? water pump, oil leaks, aren't really service items and not affected by oil changes etc. 7k miles/yr is low, maybe lots of short drives led to failures...

[@tyronehernandez9962]

@@nickmaffei4321 $4k

[@tyronehernandez9962]

@@RexNathanChan I'm thinking that was the case, the short drives. I put 108 mile a day on the car for work and haven't had much issues since the first year I owned the car

[@dsong2006]

Might be easier to list out non-major engine/transmission components which will not be a problem on a BMW

[@oldjarhead1125]

Great video, keep posting N55 stuff. Thanks

[@discobecky9179]

i would assume the answer is yes but, this would all be applicable to the f26 m40i's N55 as well yeah? stellar vid, very informative and easy to understand!

[@matt.108]

"This is a very reliable engine considering what it is..." Fool me once.....

[@fcpeuro]

55 is a higher number than 54... it has to be better.

[@matt.108]

FCP Euro clearly you know where I’m coming from😂

[@Chris-rs3dj]

It is reliable...

[@aidanlee2871]

@@matt.108 scotty kilmer?

[@matt.108]

Aidanlee5914 I hope not lol

[@danilorodriguez4665]

Fortunately it is a reliable engine, great video

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks Danilo, it really is a step up from the N54 in terms of reliability!

[@danilorodriguez4665]

@@fcpeuro Yes, it does indeed great video

[@upsouthdownnorth5478]

My oil filter housing just started leaking yesterday.... At least I was already planning on doing a major service before winter anyway. One more thing on the list.

[@angelor9433]

I got 340.000 miles on my 2011 x3 and still running like new with this engine

[@HaiderAli-ot2gg]

How much does it cost per year to run your x3 with n55?

[@angelor9433]

@@HaiderAli-ot2gg last year about 4000 dollars change lots things Drive train transmission engine everything runs like new no problem so far Ray I change the radiator electric water pump spark plugs coils and tires I did and lots of the work myself

[@howardkahn4330]

first of all when you have a valve cover leak you must also replace the valve cover, plus the gasket, costs $2,200 at the dealer, the electric water pump costs $2,300.00 at the dealer to replace, when the transmission pan leaks you must replace the plastic oil pan which includes the transmission filter+ gasket, costs at the dealer $1,600, and when the main rear seal leaks it costs well over $3,000.00 to repair, and when your extended coolant tank leaks you also must replace the plastic tubes that connect to the engine which costs at the dealer $1,200,. these things will certainly fail with less than 50,000 miles and hopefully within the 4 year mfg warranty, in your 2014 X1 Xdrive M equipped 35i n55 engine...i know, cause they failed in mine in it's 5th to 8th year between 40 and 49,000 miles which was all out of warranty, also the battery failed in it's 5th year...... also the 4 brakes pads had to be replaced and when you replace the brake pads you must also replace the rotors this costs $1,700 dollars at the dealers.... so if you are going to buy this vehicle used make sure this work was done, make sure you put this auto up on a lift and have a good mechanic look for additional leaks.....

[@Crazyfootballguy]

great video. Please do more of these full breakdowns. so very very helpful.

[@fcpeuro]

More to come!

[@dionisifilpo7735]

Thank you for this wonderful informative video. I have bought stuff from you guys previously and I will deff continue to do so considering the quality and knowledge of this video. !

[@fcpeuro]

Our pleasure Dionisi! Always happy to help people maintain these cars as they can sometimes be a handful 😅

[@marcuss6662]

Wow!! Very informational and knowledgeable video. I highly appreciate you for making such a vid. 🙏🏽Keep on that great work and God bless

[@fcpeuro]

Thank you very much, Marcus. Glad to hear you found the video informational and knowledgeable!

[@uppiliplants]

The guys at FCP are amazing

[@fcpeuro]

You are amazing

[@zeke6694]

excellent way of explaining everything but video made me cry

[@fcpeuro]

😬😂

[@BULGA19]

Great informative video for a prospective n55 buyer

[@adrians1628]

thanks for giving me hope on my bimmer again :) I ordered the water pump and thermostat kit from you guys. Should arrive soon wish me luck😂

[@fcpeuro]

Good luck Adrian! Appreciate the support and let us know how the installs go!

[@adrians1628]

FCP Euro install was a little tricky but nothing some good old fashioned determination couldn’t accomplish :)

[@Yeer718]

Thanks for posting guys.

[@fcpeuro]

happy to make this video Itsoji

[@reginald8405]

Great Video, be following you since the e39 528i and M3

[@fcpeuro]

Appreciate you following along Reginald Lyons

[@harismic]

Thank you. So far my 88k F15 sDrive has had the valve cover gasket, engine / trans mounts, 4 shocks replaced. The oil pan is leaking pretty good and the tensioner is rattling a bit.

[@Valadcm500]

I have replaced water pump and thermostat along with HPFP at around 66k miles on my n55 135i.

[@shawnyeeah]

Same those are the only 2 repairs I had to do

[@LimitlessCXIVI]

Really not that bad if you ask me, pretty simple fixes and are cheap if you do it yourself compared to going to a BMW dealership or an independent shop. And I think that those parts lasting 60-80K miles possibly even more is understandable.

[@Twiztid_Metal]

'12 135i at 40k mi my tstat and water pump failed, up next is my ofhg and serpentine belt. Currently at 42k mi.

[@Vanderkitten]

I’ve done water pump and t stat and coils and plugs, etc etc. I think my HPFP is going too. ‘12 with 62k. I track the car so it’s not normal wear and tear. Be careful tracking the n55’s, it’s recommended to overfill the oil by a quart. My rod bearings are toast and I wasn’t diligent with this.

[@fcpeuro]

You're on par for a good round of 135i ownership VALADCM.

[@aliawad1202]

What years specifically used that fuel pump?

[@BoQ7NiiZz]

My 535i F10 is from 2010 and it has the less reliable one, but in germany it just makes 200€ difference the less reliable one is 1000€ and the reliable one is 800€ so if it breaks its expensive either way

[@npharkes]

Awesome video! Very well produced :)

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks npharkes5, our team is trying their best to put out as good a quality of content as possible! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@marioristovski4232]

Great video. I had Z4 3.0 Twin turbo...and even do I love BMW i think next car will be reliable Lexus...I am tired throwing money in to BMW

[@foxyboots]

Oil intervals in Europe are set for 17k Miles. Fantastic!

[@fcpeuro]

Everything is better in Europe... even the oil change intervals!

[@BtwilliasGarage]

Wow man you knocked it out of the park with this one. Watched the entire thing. I have been documenting and pushing the limits of the N55 for 2 years now. Over 500whp for a year. Can we be best friends? -Btwillias Garage

[@fcpeuro]

Btwilla's Garage give us some details on your N55 build, you've struck our interest ^.^ Really glad you enjoyed the video, thanks for making it till the end!

[@BtwilliasGarage]

@@fcpeuro My pleasure, and thank you for the interest. My channel has tons of content on it if you get a sec. Here's a quick list. 15 F30 335i - PS2 Turbo, Pure Inlet, XDI-35 HPFP, GFB Diverter Valve, Snow Meth kit, VRSF CL DP, FMIC and CP, MPE, BMS Intake, N52 cam, KW V3s, E45

[@BMWI-gk9wh]

@@BtwilliasGarage bet the n52 cams was the shit

[@BtwilliasGarage]

@@BMWI-gk9wh oh yeah, thank you!

[@BradFresh21]

What oil do you recommend for the N55 as a high quality oil? Or what have you had the best luck with?

[@AddisonGallamore]

liqui moly

[@BradFresh21]

@@AddisonGallamore thanks

[@biaowiki]

Great maintance vedio! Greetings from a Watch restoring guy

[@sentoneYYC]

I am looking to purchase a 335i 2012 with 90,000km (little short of 60k miles) with the sport/executive package. I am going to take ti to a BMW dealership for a PPI and certification. But after the video I am having second thoughts. I am coming from an Ecoboost engine, which has problems on their own, even though after 60k miles I haven't experience nearly nothing compared to what is shown in the video.

[@Averr]

Yep seems about right, I've done Oil Filter Housing Gasket & Valve Cover Gasket along with some coolant hoses at 57k miles, High Pressure-Fuel Pump 65k. My next items are waterpump/thermostat and all pulleys and belt just to be sure. I am currently at 85,000miles 2011 135i N55 2010 production line so I am guessing a very early model

[@fcpeuro]

Sounds like you're on top of things, Aver!

[@happinesslane7402]

OMG I just purchased this vehicle. Wish you were in Michigan

[@SeedfulMusic]

This is amazing information. Thank you.

[@BMWI-gk9wh]

Would pay good money to inherit his conscious

[@fcpeuro]

Really not sure what to say to that.... but I think "Thanks?" ^.^ Gareth is a G.

[@BMWI-gk9wh]

Lmao, I could have worded that better.

[@uncleben4536]

Another great video. Subscribed!

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks for the Sub Uncle Ben! Glad you are enjoying the videos.

[@salcoco1]

This was dope, thank you!

[@dlfpsu69]

Great video!! Just bought a 2014 X5 35i with 49,750 miles on it (to go with my wife's 2013 128i convertible). My question has to do with how and where age vs miles cross, relative to preventive maintenance. Do I simply follow standard maintenance schedules for miles (excepting 5K vs 10k for oil changes), or should I treat the vehicle as if it had 75-80k miles on it, given that it's 9 years old? I have all the maintenance records and the standard schedule has been followed. Ball joint and TPMS sensors and receiver have been replaced, which are the only issues I'm aware of. Any advice would be much appreciated! Looking forward to a long relationship with both these vehicles. The N55 X5 is our 13th BMW, and I'm trusting that is not a bad omen...

[@marshallgoldberg8376]

Fantastic! Thank you so much! I heard the charge pipes are failure prone as well. Do you have a recommended maintenance schedule for these items as our engines age? I know that oil leaks are as-needed repairs, but should the others be done on a mileage basis?

[@fcpeuro]

You're welcome, Marshall! Charge pipes can be failure-prone, its always best to check over the charge pipes every so often, especially if your car is coming up in age and miles. Rubber can breakdown, especially from the heat in the engine bay. I would give everything in the engine bay a once over around the 75-80k mile mark and if you feel the need to, replace.

[@silvergatesmedia]

Awesome video my brother! I've been having the oil leaking on my serpentine belt making it come off. Now, I have a problem with it not starting, I've bought a fuel pump relay and now I can't find where it's located. I have a 2014 BMW X6. I'd appreciate if you can let me know where the fuel pump relay is located. I was told by BMW dealership that in the rear fuse panel, but there's only one black four prong relay there. The fuel pump relay has five prongs. Thank you!

[@sokola311]

Thanks much Gareth. Your videos are the best on KZbin for BMW owners!

[@WesselGerrits]

What do you guys consider "high mileage" when talking about these issues?

[@fcpeuro]

For the most part "high mileage" when it comes to the N55 is around 80k, on average thats when we see the large majority of the common problems begin to show their heads.

[@wjohnsonism]

FCP Euro .... That is exactly when my 2015 335i Valve cover gasket started to leak. Diy'd the gasket problem fixed.

[@opmike343]

Age is also a factor. My M235i was only a ~35K miles but was 5 years old when it started to have some of these issues. They included charge pipe failure, coolant hose return line failure, water pump/thermostat failure. All covered by my extended warranty thank god.

[@t.c904]

My 135i 2011(125000tkm) has a water pump fail and the chargepipe broken a few weeks ago. No oil leaks. Change the Oil in 8000tkm interval. Think the engine still run smooth and healthy.

[@chris31021]

Good Video Guys 💪🏻 also you can make this video but with B58 engine?

[@fcpeuro]

Hope to soon Chris!

[@siamsttr]

@@fcpeuro yes pleasee

[@BULGA19]

Great video. Can you guys do a similar video for B58?

[@fcpeuro]

Thank you! Of course we can!

[@Trump-The-GREATEST]

All of that stuff failed on mine at about 176k miles on my 535i f10. Fixed all of that with FCPeuro parts and now my M-Sport f10 runs like new!

[@raidenprotecterofearthreal7909]

You did the oil pan gasket on your own?

[@sentoneYYC]

If you search the comment section you will find an almost 2 year old comment from me having doubts when purchasing a 60k miles 335i 2012 early F30 production. Well I did bought the thing and here are the things I replaced within 20 months of ownership: Valvetronic actuator eccentric shaft with the roller bearings, bearing shells, oil squirter water pump thermostat intake charge pipe intake jet vacumm line gaskets Day light running LED modules from one headlight driver side brake lamp assembly Turbo return oil line Boost solenoid All from FCP euro parts XD interesting thing - You dont need specialty tools to remove any of the above, torque wrench, sockets, L key etc will be enough. A lot of handy work to replace but doable at home if done slowly. But in parts ive sent the equivalent to 3200 in parts...... so FAR. but i dont expect other issues, rod bearings are fine from blackstone lab analysis, oil pan and oil tilter cap have no flakes or nasty copper. 5k miles changes, mann oil filter, penzzoil 5w40 premium euro, proper heating before driving. will keep the engine alive for 350k km / 215k miles.

[@fcpeuro]

Bruno! Welcome back to the comments section. Love/hate to hear your failure/success of N55 ownership thus far. We are glad we didnt mislead you at all in this video, and also glad we were there to help support you with the parts you need to get your F30 back to a happy place again. If there were any DIY's you wish we had for any of those (that we dont currently) what would it be ?

[@krzysztofs8555]

That's really helpful, thanks!

[@doctorj1969]

GREAT info. Can you post any data regarding at what mileage each oil leak issue will start to appear (assuming normal driving). THANK YOU!

[@АраикКарапетян-х9ю]

👍🏻 That ‘s is videos important. Thanks very much

[@unlearningcommunism4742]

Hello From Texas. I watched, read, liked, subscribed X)... And my question is simple: which one is the most reliable, N52, N20 or N55? After listening to your videos, and checking mileage on classifieds, I would go for N20. Forgot to say, I'm interested in F10.

[@Ashley_van_Schooneveld]

N55 is more reliable than N20 go for a late built N55 (e.g. 2016) and avoid early built N20 known for timing chain problems

[@dylanoppeneer2354]

n20 is pretty much the same if both sre stock. the n20 is basicly a n55 in 4 cil version

[@josuefuentes3681]

Love it! Good Job bro!

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks, josue!

[@medeiros6598]

Top video keep going 👍

[@lp2565]

Excellent overview!

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks lp2565 glad you liked it

[@RexRogers_]

The oil squirter tip is a gem. Can this be tackled during valve cover gasket?

[@VoodooBoot]

Thanks for the video! As a previous owner of an N54, no! S65 is the only one I would consider now (and there are the rod bearings).

[@markt9438]

Make sure you bulletproof the Vanoss with a hardened hub and pressure lines by the way when I had my M3 I used cerma additive for the Vanoss and it corrected the seal problem it's worth the try for $125 you can't lose anything in the meantime getting to the job is painstaking and expensive you can find that at cermastore.com

[@GoFastGator]

The 335is engine mounts work great on E9x N55s.

[@ivansanchez8510]

How much play/wiggle is acceptable on the tensioner?

[@19RedLineR74]

Subbed! Knew about some, and already done. Does the harmonic balancer itself wear? The rubber part on the crank pulley? My pulley has a wobble, causing squeal when cold. Replaced belt 3 times, and the 2 idlers and tensioner. All accessory pulleys running true. I know you can't diagnose in the comment section. Just a general question if you guys found that you have to replace them around 100k miles often. I've heard about vanos filters? ie. oil filters screwed into the block at 2 places apparently. Is this true, and should they be changed at some interval even just as preventative maintenance? Can you do a video on just what should be done at which miles for us far outside the US that have to service ourselves? DCT oil change? gearbox filter. Diff oil. Any info regards timing chain slides? Went through your shop! So much I probably need :-( "suspension" rattle in the back over rumble strips, with my luck, probably subframe kit if I'm lucky, and I'm not. And what about factory recalls? I saw one about a bit of battery cable around the passenger footwell that should be replaced. Would this lead to battery not properly charging? Those kinds of issues? ISTA showing a low voltage reading even with a charger connected etc?

[@fcpeuro]

The rubber part in the crank pulley certainly can degrade and cause a wobble/off balance. It's certainty not a bad idea to inspect those Vanos filters. We have more videos planned, thanks for subscribing!

[@19RedLineR74]

@@fcpeuro Thanks so much for the reply! Looking forward to more of these terribly informative videos!!! The one one on interchangeable suspension components to upgrade to M3 stuff was a real eye opener!!!! So much info here!!!!

[@diverscuba123]

Hi, my 2011 X3 F25 had one of those old HPFP, it was changed by the dealer in 2016, I was wondering if it was possible that the new version of the pump was installed, or if the car is stuck with the same faulty version. Thanks!

[@HARLEM430]

I don't see my F07 in the list. But I also too have the N55 in my car.

[@RicWestervelt]

Do you recommend an oil sludge removal service, like a LiquiMoly engine oil flush. I did one lately, and am concerned about oil gasket leaks, valve cover and oil pan gaskets. Any tho'ts? Ric

[@shotamaisuradze9838]

Do you recommend following BMW service bulletin for oil priming if it is only oil change rather that parts or gasket replacement?

[@seikoandora6485]

Bmw E39 M52 & M54 Best engines ever Made.

[@S58PSHIFTING]

what plug was it you said that was good for the N55? You didnt give a number.

[@HappyDude1]

Most of these things happen with higher milage but most cars with over 100 000 km have oil leaks Thats just normal I worked at a control point for cars for 1 year in belgium And i saw 500 cars a day come by And almost everyone had a car with some leaks. Exept the ones that were well maintained ( mostly bmw and audi with lease contract ) and also honda was always dry 😁

[@fcpeuro]

Oil leaks are definitely a common thing! Thanks for the insight!

[@HappyDude1]

@@fcpeuro No problem 😄 Well its common for french cars And really old cars 😅 The probleme is that People are getting used to the fact that modern cars drive 100 000 km without leaks or problems But that is a lot to handle for seals and the engine!. With so much power and rpm these modern engines put out. You could only dream that with old cars they had leaks and problems everywhere

[@abdulsalam7660]

Hello sir learned a lot from your this video I have a 2006 Bmw 325i my car having a issue to start the car but if when it starts if I take my foot off the gas Paddle it turns off by it self

[@abdulsalam7660]

And it also giving code P1447

[@bobfognozzle]

Would you do this video for the f80/83?

[@andywatkins6285]

Gareth, thanks for your time and knowledge. I have an N55 E82...Doing upgrades: Intercooler, high-flow cat and exhaust, diverter valve, JB4 tune... change plugs and ignition coils ? Thank you.

[@gilgonzalez5902]

Yes change them get one step colder plugs and fresh coils (not Bosch).

[@kamilos4657]

Does this video include the X4 M40i 2017 ?

[@dimitripetrenko1323]

What fuel should i pour? How many octan will be ok for N55?(RON)

[@TheChunification]

Thank you. Great video!

[@fcpeuro]

You are welcome!

[@christr167]

2012 f10 535i with bad mpg.(9) Any thoughts on how to improve it