The Money You'll Spend On Your BMW N54 - 7 Issues

[@trayzyz2601]

Love how this guy makes everything looks like it is impossible to do it your self lol

[@nathanross963]

Anj B don’t have to be that car savvy to follow a diy video on KZbin.

[@sl0907]

nathan ross having the experience and knowledge definitely helps everything’s go smoother. Especially on German cars.

[@vintagetrk]

Full disclosure I'm a mechanic by trade. If you go to FCP Euro the water Pump is around $250 US and the Thermostat is something like $175 US. If your somewhat mechanically inclined you can tackle those two maintenance items in a couple hours time. Turbos are always expensive if you dont want those issues dont buy a turbo car. The Valve cover gasket kit is like $33 on FCP Euro for the OEM one and About $450 US for the Valve cover.Charge pipes are fairly inexpensive especially the aluminum ones and most of them come with blow off valve inserts or you can retain your stock diverter valves. Alot of carbon build up can be averted with a catch can system that is relatively inexpensive and will save ya from having to do a walnut blast. If you run crap gas your gonna have issues with injectors also dont be fooled by these guys who say it's your injectors. Before you worry about injectors put high quality coil packs and plugs NGK Iridiums in your car and thats usually enough to solve the problems discussed here. When your discussing these cars always remember that they are higher end cars and they are expensive to remain. However if properly maintained they are super reliable. Yep guys overtune them and rag on them without proper knowledge. If your not into or cant turn wrenches on your own car a Beemer or any Exotic is probably not for you

[@ECPP]

Thanks a lot for sharing

[@goblinman1000]

At 180k, fbo 08 335i, stock turbos, no rattle, still make full boost

[@messi13578]

Forgot to mention these cars are fairly easy to work on which would save you thousands of dollars. Also, because of the popularity of the n54, there are hundreds of diy videos for every thing mentioned in the video. With that said, definitely don’t purchase an n54 if you’re not at least a bit mechanically inclined. All in all, you basically nailed most of the weak points on this platform👍🏻

[@ECPP]

Thanks for dropping a line. True you need to be strong mechanically and not be intimidated or this is not the car for you

[@SteveWeltman]

ExoticCar PlayPlace this is not a simple car but it’s very well documented and there are tons of good DIY videos on YT. You’re right though because I have a Honda which is drop dead simple compared to my E90N54.

[@SuperJeremi10]

I'm semi mechanically inclined I do what I can on the bmw 535i I love the car but I prefer to take it and just pay someone to fix the problems it does cost a pretty penny but it's so much easier to say here fix it. I have a good trusty mechanic we have been using for 10 + years 3rd bmw he's expensive but he fix it right trust me I've tried other shops and it always would end up going back to him to fix other shops fuck ups. He also does a 360 point inspection for me each time he has it and let's me know what it needs and what it will need soon but can wait. Let me tell you keeps me from breaking down that's for sure.

[@ThatNofbody]

@@SuperJeremi10 that’s the whole point see how many times u said expensive or pretty penny that’s why we learn how to work on cars so we can avoid that lol

[@SuperJeremi10]

@@ThatNofbody I know and I actually do k ow how to work on the car I've done some repairs to it over the years I just prefer not to work on it or cars at all for that matter. I also work so much that I don't have time to work on it even if I wanted too. Bmw has 150,000 miles on it I did however decide it was time for something new and bought a 2018 Alfa romeo stelvio. I still currently have the bmw though but I am gifting it to my brother. The bmw has a few small problems that he wants to fix it still runs and drives it now has a slight misfire on cylinder 3 and a lean code on bank 1 I was told needs new fuel injectors they are still the original injectors. Also the rack an Pinon is going out and it's due for a break job break light is on saying replace pads nothing to bad. I did get a 5,000 repair bill though. Which again is nothing compared to what I've already spent on it I've basically rebuilt the car. In the last 4 years I have spent 10,000 in repairs in that car.

[@o0GodZila0o]

Imagine paying a grand for someone to change your valve cover gasket 😂

[@LatestViralMoments]

LMFAOOO IKR

[@neyzanmaldonado4373]

I did it my self now everyone ask me to do it 😂

[@treyrichard7779]

I paid 200 😂😂

[@vargasaidan7366]

@@neyzanmaldonado4373 charge them 💸

[@SteveWeltman]

You missed one of the other failure points: the oil filter housing gasket fails pretty commonly. Another one I dealt with was an oil pan gasket leaking. Good video. By the way you neglected to mention all of these can be done at home in a garage with a little time and common hand tools which saves a ton from going to the dealer

[@ECPP]

True Steve, I changed the one gasket on my oil filter housing already too. And I do know turbos would be a real PITA at home. Have you done that repair yourself ? I was debating it.

[@zenden6564]

What about the Vanos system I thought that needed periodic maintenance too?

[@SteveWeltman]

ExoticCar PlayPlace not changed the turbos yet. A number of other priorities before that happens (struts, springs, normal maintenance stuff like hoses, plugs, coils, belt, vacuum lines, filters, fluids, radiator, charge pipe, and so on).

[@SteveWeltman]

Zen Den yes they do, preventive replacement for the vanos is easy though.

[@zenden6564]

@@SteveWeltman I've heard that but never done the job...

[@DannyBoy-nz2mi]

The cost of maintaining my BMW's completely offsets the cost. I'm 44 and single, my BMW's are my babies!🤓

[@ECPP]

Great car and no one to justify ownership to other than yourself

[@scanspeak00]

Virtually none of these issues occur on the non-turbo motor. Typically just the valve cover problem and oil filter housing gasket.

[@ECPP]

Absolutely true

[@SteveWeltman]

True. the N52 motor is very sedate but very reliable. Replacing the high failure items with better components (like many of the plastic pressure items) makes the N54 much more reliable.

[@dodgehemi5045]

coolant pump, dual fuel pumps

[@ce2958]

scanspeak00 my 2008 with only 148k kms had the valve cover, oil housing gasket, front main seal/crank shaft gasket go. Now it’s got the oil pan and/or the rear main seal leaking. It’s a major pain.

[@farmanshaikh6405]

True, but the N52 is slow AF. Most folks buy the 335 for the performance and tuning potential and understand the common issues. It's like owning an exotic car to some extent. Be prepared to fork out some cash and time, but also be prepared for lots of smiles while enjoying the blistering performance with a few Bolt-on's and a tune

[@kookieless]

I drove my n54 350 miles straight, while showing all the codes that the water pump will fail soon. Drove great

[@iam_myster_e]

Lucky!! Mine had limp mode to the extreme. It was also a very hot summer day :(

[@vanessasworder]

These are not good if consistently driven in very high heat

[@DigitalDissident]

I bought a red/Orange ''10 120i recently, I describe it like this: There is no sunroof that would just make the car heavier, break, or fry you in the sun. There is no fancy idrive touch screen or navi (I just use my phone). There is no electronic parking brake, just a normal manual one. There is no lane keep, auto pilot etc. **It does have power folding mirrors** I want to emphasize that this car has very few electronic gimmicks, just a straight four cylinder with no turbo so it is very reliable, great on gas, easy to maintain & still quick enough to fly by the majority of whats on the Autobahn with ease (140mph+). It is also very easy to drive in traffic because it has a great transmission & good amount of torque. It is intended for people who enjoy driving. I purchased this car in mint, almost new condition no leaks, no rust other than surface on bolts. It has a very nice uncommon color instead of the generic silver, white, gray black. etc.

[@mcgyverb1664]

The plastic materials will always be the negative equity of these vehicles, if you’re not a mechanic 🔧bankruptcy is imminent.

[@ECPP]

Thanks for watching and dropping a line. Yes these cars are fun bad have a huge list of expensive repairs that can leave a person broke and in the gutter.

[@mcgyverb1664]

ExoticCar PlayPlace these vehicles definitely gotta have their own savings account, the more miles you put, on the more money you should be banking for it’s repairs😭🤣

[@ECPP]

I hear that. Cheers

[@DannyBoy-nz2mi]

Thank goodness I have been in love with these cars since I was 17 in 1992 in a e28. I have owned several but I really, really love the e39🤷‍♂️. Meaning I kinda know my way around the engine...🤓!

[@ricksokol5039]

I look at it this way, I’m a car builder an enthusiast. Cars are my livelihood and hobby. People dump tons of money into their favorite hobby whatever it might be. Mine happens to be cars so that’s what I blow my dough on. I’ve got a FBO E92 on E85 and it’s a blast and like you said worth the experience👍🏻

[@s2syed]

I have a 2007 N54 with original index 1 injectors....still going strong

[@ECPP]

Keep rolling with it then. That’s positive for sure.

[@uniquenails1240]

the repair bill is on the way.. very soon

[@goblinman1000]

I bought an 07 with index 1s, injector #6 wouldn't close and washed out the bearings.

[@TheFrenchPug]

My waterpump failed at 92k miles. Installed new one myself and it was pretty easy with all of the DIYs out there. Also, the plastic coolant hose cracked that runs across the top of the radiator. Cheap easy fix but still. Come on BMW. Just changed my valve cover gasket again at 130k miles. Had to replace fuel level sender under driver's rear seat from more cracked plastic. Not fun but not impossible. Voluntarily did all my suspension and front end stuff. Easy to get to. All injectors replaced at 60k. Hoping hpfp continues to hold up. Had walnut blast at 60k and installed oil catch can. Just had manifold off and it is still clean in there. Woo hoo! Swapped out coolant tank as well for preventative. Biggest performance problens have come from the failed valve cover gasket overall.

[@ECPP]

It’s good you did it yourself in many cases as this would cost quite a lot for people going to the dealer for everything

[@TheFrenchPug]

@@ECPP I'm too old to keep doing these repairs though. Next car will be one that hopefully needs a lot less done :) But you are spot on with the repair needs and it's inherent to how they keep costs down or something. I'll still take these repairs over my stupid Nissan ones though.

[@boostjunkie27]

I have an 07 e90 335i and I have had almost all of those issues you mentioned occur to my vehicle. I personally don't mind the maintenance bill that comes along with it every once in a while as it's still cheaper than having a car note that performs similar to a modded N54.

[@ECPP]

True. In stock form it may not be worth owning but to tune it, that’s where it becomes more justified.

[@navqwertyful]

Had a 2008 bmw 335xi coupe and kept it for couple of years. My suggestion is if you going to buy don’t keep it as your daily driver. Besides what he mentioned, there are DME, transfer case, drive shaft, cabin air blower, electrical issues with headlights, VANOS issues. So much wrong with this car that you don’t even enjoy driving it anymore. I would never tell anyone to buy unless they have loads of extra cash even at that point I will lease a new one and return before warranty expires. So glad that I sold it.

[@gupallday4483]

Please dont get discouraged, These are Steelership prices, Go to a certified German mechanic shop and pay half the price. Buy your parts from fpc euro,it parts come with a lifetime warranty. Or there's alot of fyi on KZbin.

[@mcgyverb1664]

G up all day I agree the bmw stealerships are probably the biggest criminals when it comes to ripping off drivers, only a fool would drive an out of warranty bmw directly to the dealership for service 🙅‍♂️I won’t even go there for a recall, they can keep the free coffee, and all the high sugar donuts, diabetic snacks.

[@ECPP]

Haha. I totally agree, I have learned to go 3rd party for parts and often fix the issue myself if I can and save a ton. Otherwise we are all just working for the brand.

[@georgesabdallah2439]

ive removed the turbos on these, accessibility is the biggest issue but it is replaceable in around 4 hours in my opinion

[@fbanda20]

This is the type of car for a guy that doesn’t mind wrenching on stuff from time to time. If your the type of person that can’t fix shit or pays someone each time to blow up your tire than no this isn’t for you. None of those issues you mentioned are a big deal to me but I like wrenching on stuff to make big power. By the way theN54 has huge potential for big power!

[@ECPP]

Thanks and I agree, I like wrenching and consider myself a solid mech, but I just get tired fixing something every week.

[@WorkshopYS]

Have you had issues with carbon build up? I've seen some videos using walnut blasting, but also a video that suggest a chemical cleaning system that cleans the whole system rather than just the valves works best. Your thoughts?

[@dodgehemi5045]

fuel cleaners detergents dont clean behind valves on Direct Injection cars +07. Toyota sprays fuel that cleans valves better, Germans could learn

[@kielconstantine]

It's a love & hate relationship owning german vehicles. Love when things work well; hate when things break down with big sum of repair bill. xD

[@ECPP]

Totally

[@mattmartini836]

haha true

[@ce2958]

Great video, my 2008 328i coupe has had these n54 engine problems fixed at the dealership (Canada): Valve cover and gasket: $1800 Oil housing gasket: $900 Front main seal/crankshaft gasket: $900 Now it’s got an oil pan/rear main seal oil leak... estimated $2900 at the dealership. All oil leaks were about 3 months to a year in between. It’s a royal pain in the ass. It’s also got a loud creaking sound coming from the rear passenger side suspension - sounds like those old rusty trucks with leaf springs. It’s my winter car now but I still love it, I hope I don’t get any more engine gasket leaks, after the oil pan and rear main seal fix I don’t think there are many other gaskets left on the damn engine to change...

[@ECPP]

Yeah that sounds a bit pricey but the dealer will charge often more than what seems fair

[@ce2958]

ExoticCar PlayPlace ever experienced that rear suspension creaking? BMW seems to say it’s quite common, any idea where the problem is coming from?

[@ArtemDzhadzha]

A good selection of major issues. I'd add few more, though they are not so expensive: stock BOSCH coils tend to brake especially on higher boost, the coolant expansion tank should be replaced after 100k miles cause sometimes it cracks and blows up, oil pan gasket leaks, automatic transmission fluid should be changed together with all internal rubber sealing sleeves, those sleeves harden with time and leak oil pressure which leads to harsh shifting. And few more minor issues that will definitely happen on N54 but none of them as expensive as those mentioned.

[@ECPP]

Thanks for the updates. They have their share of issues which, to me, suggests a lack in proper research and development, but still a rally great car to drive.

[@ArtemDzhadzha]

@@ECPP Most of the time, you have to release the product when further perfection becomes less profitable than early market conquest (even considering future warranty repairs and recalls). That's what we do in the software industry (I'm a software architect), the same probably works as well for the car industry.

[@ECPP]

That is likely the case due to the law of diminishing returns. With the twin turbo setup it would be mostly new group so it would be difficult to learn from history is there is not

[@HappyDude1]

al these problems is because of the previous owners that dont drive correct + tuning and also don't give them the proper maintenance i did 280 000 km with zero costs on my 335i with the n54

[@ECPP]

That’s the odd thing because yes, you hear of some real disasters and also hear of reliable work horses

[@HappyDude1]

@@ECPP here in belgium its the same all the probleme cars come to me :) they always buy a cheap bmw with a lot of miles and a bad maintenance history , and they expect that its going to work like a charm ^^ and thats the reason why we have stories that bmw is junk :p

[@SteveWeltman]

HappyDude some but not all. N54 just needs some attention and love to keep it in maintenance.

[@thearabiangolfer]

And z4 35i. I had one. Many many problems every 3k miles sadly. But I loved the engine

[@scottthecarguy8147]

If your turbos or wastegates go out at this point, might as well just upgrade to bigger turbos or ST kit. Actually looking forward to when mine go because that means I get more power.

[@ECPP]

I was sort of thinking the way you do and that is the good opportunity to do the swap. What kind were you looking at doing.

[@jameslatimer1432]

Love your vids man

[@ECPP]

Thanks a lot James. Have a great one.

[@naifali5141]

Just had my water pump and thermostat changed today. Failed at 95,000km. Lucky I could drive to the workshop

[@ECPP]

Wow, ver similar to mine which went around 104000 kms

[@LuxusLeina]

@@ECPP 116tkm here 2009 model

[@elliott-mtb5599]

I'm a bmw mechanic and have worked on the N54 engine several times (one of the most unreliable engine I've seen), other issues you forgot to mention is the engine DME fails and costs thousands to replace if you go to the dealer , the good thing is that the DME can be repaired and doesn't have to be replaced like the stealer would tell you. Camshaft & crankshaft sensors is a common failure also cooling rubber/metal hoses in turbo area will fail and labor to replace is over 1K since is a PITA to replace. Also belt and pulleys fail often ... Btw I own an e46 330i manual and would NEVER trade for the N54 version, yeah I'm a mechanic but I rather drive my bmw than work on it all the time.

[@ECPP]

And that really is the best compromise for performance and maintainability. The last of the straight 6 s are amazing g engines.

[@SuperJeremi10]

Well here's an update my 2008 bmw last comment I had 127,000. Mine is a early 535i with the n54 it has a manufacturer date of 10/07. So fat the the fuel pump and factory turbos are still in perfect working condition. The car now has 155,000. I just had to break down and replace the fuel injectors 2100. Bucks. I have had issues with the water pump in the past athe alternator and starter I've had the valve cover gaskets replaced as well as oil filter housing seals. All cooling system hoses have been replaced. Oil pan seals have been replaced my valve cover is still original no warps or cracks just had bad gaskets.

[@jordan234674]

The N54 is also used in the 1M.

[@kovacevd]

Errrrrrr. I changed radiator. Thermostat. Waterpump. Downpipes and charge pipes . And radiator hoses all in like 10 hours. Never done it before. Turbo doesn't cost much to rebuild. Just do it yourself 1200 ish. U can get valve cover and gasket for 50 bucks. Why would u pay someone to do it. It is easy. Anyone with half a brain can do it. BMW is good quality. I will never buy anything else. Awesome car to drive. I actually can't stand driving anything else after getting my 335i e92

[@SuperJeremi10]

Hey I love my 2008 bmw 535i I have 127,000 miles on her I've never had it walnut blasted I didn't even know about it till recently. The injectors just went out not spraying enough fuel in bank 1 so I have bank I to lean and sometimes cylinder 3 missfiire. My alternator just went out and Cooked my battery. I've had the water pump go out twice. I have never had anything wrong with the high pressure fuel pump I've laso had 0 problems out of the turbo. I did have the valve cover gasket fall 2 years ago that has been repaired. Other then that car has been good and I plan to continue drinking it. I also only run mobile 1 full synthetic oil in it. I have done that since I too ownership when bought with only 20,000 miles on it.

[@SuperJeremi10]

Well I had better start knocking on wood the car just left me stranded but it's obvious it's the starter. Having it towed to a repair shop.

[@SuperJeremi10]

Man we just got my intake off the car and got my starter off I peeked down the intake. It's time for a walnut blast for sure you would not believe how bad the carbon build up is inside the engine. It's amazing the car still runs at all its like a very thick blanket on everything.

[@andreagate542]

Thxs for the vid! I’m in Toronto Canada and would you know of any shops that do the walnut blast? Thxs again

[@Linoge279]

does it also affect E71 x6 model?

[@hellboysrb]

8 to 10h to change water pump? In Serbia, we need max 90min change all of that, for $30 ...

[@ECPP]

I need one of your mechanics here

[@hellboysrb]

@@ECPP I'm programmer, but with nice BMW history (7 cars in last 8 years) All the best in life and business, but also all the best with those prices :) p.s. Because of you, now I have E70. Tnx

[@vanessasworder]

Nearly all of the these have happened to my 2010 335 i by the time I reached 80 000 miles started at 60 …such a beautiful car but my gosh…..now I have to do gasket cover ….

[@Chris-se3nc]

Thinking about buying a new M240. Any reliability issues I should know about?

[@ECPP]

Not yet, the B48 engine in that car has been bulletproof so far at least when connected to the auto transmission. The manual versions had some type of issue witbtranny and engine alignments and throw out bearing problems

[@Chris-se3nc]

Thanks for the reply! Ya it would be auto AWD. Was just wondering because I have never seen you talk about that car. Or maybe I missed the vid.

[@randylopez4826]

Don't forget the oil cooler gasket leaks. Mine started leaking around 60k mi.

[@Latinblood59]

Love my e92 335i! Looking to add an e39 540i to my lineup 😄

[@ECPP]

Good stuff. The 540 is a great car especially with a manual gearbox.

[@gh-cu1jh]

Got a manual 2008 e90 335i and hoping to buy a e46 m3 once I graduate from university

[@Latinblood59]

Aurora my 335i is a manual too! 👍🏽 My father had an e46 M3 back in 05. That’s the car that got me into BMWs. This e39 540 I’m looking at is an auto. That way I can switch between stick and auto whenever

[@gh-cu1jh]

@@Latinblood59 9h yes that is quite nice bc I also have a e46 330i but it's a manual and in chicago traffic it can be a pain sometimes

[@HQGARAGE]

I think this is a great Video and I think everyone should watch before buying a BMW. I wouldn’t say it’s a deal breaker but it’s good to know. Thanks for sharing Mark.

[@ECPP]

Thanks a lot Jeff I appreciate that and I would agree, still positives outweight the negatives.

[@SuperJeremi10]

I've also still have not had a walnut blast done

[@ECPP]

How many miles do you have?

[@SuperJeremi10]

@@ECPP 155,000

[@caspernetherlands698]

I just bought last week a 2015 435i xdrive. Are these vehicles any better?

[@ECPP]

Yes they are because they use a different engine the N55

[@caspernetherlands698]

ExoticCar PlayPlace that’s what I thought. I got it with 14k miles for $30k. The guy who had it before me has done a dinan performance tuning at the engine but I have no idea what that is. The dealer told me this tuning has added some hp

[@aznazguy]

Lesser known fact: N54s were also in E70 X5s.

[@ECPP]

Thanks

[@sinbad5702]

Great video good information to know before thinking of buying one of this bmw😅

[@anthonymolina7416]

That’s why you buy a 94 celica instead

[@brandonballard7472]

Anthony Molina SCOTTYYYYY

[@BF109G4]

Rev up your celica

[@farmanshaikh6405]

Don't mess with the Scotty lol

[@thongtran37]

Endless Money Pit...

[@jassi8493]

Hi , what do you suggest about 2012 N54 Engine with just 23000 miles , from what miles the problem start occur or we should ignore even low miles N54 ??

[@LoopBooost]

Maybe the carbon build up

[@dariusburnett1055]

Thoughts on a 535xi?

[@ECPP]

Same e give if you buy an early version of the 535. Same potential problems

[@An0nDEViant]

Save thousands! Just use crc or seafoam intake valve cleaner and liqui-moly jectron injector cleaner before every oil change with like 50miles until empty. This preventive maintenance has kept my fuel pumps, injectors and intake valves clean (also spray intake cleaner into each turbo inlet) Never once replaced fuel components or did a carbon cleaning in 12yrs in my 07 335i.

[@mcgyverb1664]

An0nDEViant if you also run bmw shell oil, and use shell vpower gasoline the engine runs bulletproof, the key is regular routine oil changes, and never being cheap with the materials being used, anytime you see a bmw having misfire issues the driver is a cheapskate with oil changes, and probably using cheap oils, and cheap gasoline.

[@An0nDEViant]

I run Castrol Edge 5w40 because it's the only oil I've found that doesn't make that embarrassing ticking noise on cold starts.

[@mcgyverb1664]

An0nDEViant castrol oil does very well on older bmw models, bmw the vehicle brand is good, it’s the marketing that comes behind it that’s very bad for long term owners, because everybody wants to make money, this is why it’s always good to know what works best for your vehicle, and stick with it, I’ve been running fine on 5w30 and the crooked ass stealership tried selling me 0w30 oil which is a thinner viscosity, I told them no thanks it’s 5w30 or am taking my business elsewhere, majority of mechanics are criminals, this is why a lot of people go bankrupt driving these vehicles,too much dishonesty, and that’s why bmw is only for people who know exactly what they are dealing with.

[@dodgehemi5045]

DI injection, back of valves dont get scrub on mew cars except Toyota. Walnuts

[@dodgehemi5045]

@@An0nDEViant Zinc additives removed from mod oils now, buy zinc additives to quite tappets, must on 944t

[@abdelhameedalotaibi3657]

Its really sad this is one of the best looking vehicles especially with the separated dual pipes and the bigger rims and low ride stance but i would never get one because if its reliability and i would rather look for a c350 or S4 instead ..

[@ECPP]

I understand, I love the looks of the car and it drives well so if a person can do some work themselves this can be a fun car to own.

[@shaolinmaster8583]

Were did that hks blow off valve come from

[@Betomaster79]

the high fuel pump come in the 328i????

[@ECPP]

No, that’s unique for the turbo

[@koungdy6381]

Nice descriptions👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@PrivateEyeYiYi]

Good Dr Seuss title: "Oh, the Money You'll Spend"

[@ECPP]

Nice

[@s2syed]

Waterpump/thermostat; you can buy online for $600 Canadian. I paid 3 hours labour at an independent shop...so all in paid under $900

[@ECPP]

True the water pump and t stat are available on line if you are resourceful and 600 bucks is possible if you stay far from the dealer but 3 houRs ? Hold on to that mechanic because that is gold. It is a nasty job and I would pay that any day for that type of cost

[@Matt-xq6ow]

Appreciate the video! Do you know how the N55's are?

[@p0werl0ve]

great review on what can potentially go wrong, thanks!

[@ECPP]

Thanks for watching!

[@matt.108]

If a shop says 8-10 hours for a water pump you are being ripped off. The pump on this car could be changed on jack stands in about 3 hours by anybody with some experience working on cars. $2,000 is way overpriced. The part is about $300.

[@scrapinpennies4365]

Don't take it to shop, they'll rip you off. What you should do is just do it yourself, if you know how. It's way cheaper and it gives you some left over money for other repairs, because all of these repairs are about $7,000 if you do it yourself. But if you took it to a shop, your looking at roughly $12,000. So just do it yourself. These things barley happen all at once, so you never have to fix all 7 problems at the same time.

[@ECPP]

I agree. The turbos are the only one the I find a bit daunting due to how deep you have to go

[@scrapinpennies4365]

Yeah, some times BMW doesn't make much sense.

[@scrapinpennies4365]

Plastic valve covers? Really.

[@michaelperalta5727]

Wow I was going to get a 335i 2015 m sport but now I’m getting me a 340i 2016 M sport

[@LikquidDutch]

my 2007 has had all these parts replaced already now i have a readr main seal leak =(

[@ECPP]

Wow sorry to hear about this. R u doing a clutch since you are in there ?

[@LikquidDutch]

@@ECPP lol already have a ACT stage 3 lol

[@donaldbarron7916]

Awesome show

[@ECPP]

Thanks a lot.

[@donaldbarron7916]

@@ECPP These cars are a joy to drive But !!!!!!!!!! You have to pay. My wife's 2010 535i has 117,000 miles on it. It took a lot of $$ to get there !! I replaced: Belt tensioner Serpentine belt Plugs n coils Pcv valve - rob beck Coolant reservoir Oil filter housing cap Oil filler cap Vanos solenoids ( Oem ) Crankcase vent hose Dealer repair: Valve cover Oil cooler Oil cooler gasket Oil filter housing gasket Oil pan gasket Motor mounts Lower control arms Alternator Walnut blast intake High pressure fuel pump Injectors Diverter valves Transmission oil pan and service Upper radiator hose Rear differential seals And other items The only thing I haven't changed yet that usually goes out is the starter, the water pump and thermostat, turbos. Plus all your general maintenance. Oil changes, tires, brakes, etc. These cars will destroy your wallet !! I only did all this because my wife really likes the car. No More bmw after this. I have a 2008 F-150. It has 250,000 miles. No problems ever !! Runs strong. No leaks !!

[@jameslatimer1432]

Cool vid i nearly bought one of these but convertible 330 07 08 yr in stead i got a r129 big mistake it cost a fortune on parts and sold it and lost money

[@ECPP]

True enough any of these cars can break the bank if a person lands a Friday or Monday built car. Sadly most of these cars lose money and I have a feeling once I unload mine, it will be hard to recoup the works. Cheers

[@penvon]

ExoticCar PlayPlace A Friday car most like before the long weekend with about an hour or so left before the shift ends 😉

[@thegoodguysteve]

You should do a series on a classic bmw like a e30 or e34

[@ECPP]

Sure I’d love to. Would be great to get my hands on an older car so I could give it a great review

[@thomascunningham2933]

You forgot to mention the oil pan gasket and the oil filter gasket. This will happen to all of them by 120k

[@kalel626]

Love these type of reviews, it's like no one has ever owned a turbo high performance car lol. I can't believe how much misinformation keeps getting spread. Almost all of these issues arise from incompetent owners and lack of maintenance. Long story short, if you can't turn a wrench buy a Toyota or Honda and stay away from all high performance platforms.

[@ECPP]

Thanks and that’s why I bought this one, I Can wrench

[@joecostner1246]

325i is na 3 litre engine, easy to tune to 272hp. Downshift to 4th gear on autobahn and fly to 260 km/h.

[@ECPP]

true

[@evoquesquad2015]

Hey my friend like your videos I have 2012 BMW X3 m 125k my water pump when on Saturday I pay $1400 from Toronto

[@milesboyd1]

Great vid! I do have a question though, how serious are oil pan leaks? I just repaired my valve cover leak on my (328xi 09) and I was told that was more important, and not to worry about the oil pan just yet. Is this sound advice? What issues will a oil pan leak cause for my vehicle?

[@ECPP]

Thanks for watching. Firstly take my advise with a grain but if it were my car I would not change oil pan gasket unless there was actual dripping and not even slightly moist as there really little to no risk to your car unless you slowly run it out of oil but just keep an eye on the level over time and that should be fine. Any slight oil seepage will land on your plastics underneath so it is hard to tell but maybe look behind the plastics in another year or so to see if anything has gotten worse.

[@milesboyd1]

@@ECPP Thank you so much! I appreciate the advice. Maybe consider making a video on this? I couldn't find this info anywhere. Thanks again.

[@dasstig5274]

It has some issues, but when the alternative is a dumpy lexus.. here's my chequebook.

[@ECPP]

I agree, you have to pay to play

[@kacatley9258]

Thinking hard on a GS man.. but hard to break from the BMW feel and impression of my 2013 535i MS

[@ronaldsimon9718]

just buy a service manual and DIY. no need to pay anybody.

[@ECPP]

Totally agree, and I have been doing much of it myself

[@WorkshopYS]

e89 Z4 also has the N54.

[@ECPP]

True, thanks for the addition. Cheers

[@emilecrone4304]

What about oil consumption? Mine consumes a F*%# ton. Runs great though & no smoke (engine consumption).

[@Latinblood59]

Emile Crone how much how often? I have to top mine off every 3k miles, but I have oil leaking from the oil pan and my car is tuned

[@emilecrone4304]

@@Latinblood59 Mine varies from 500-1200KM, been like this for 2 years, no smoke no issues. Probably stems from oil sludge found when changing valve cover. Very high consumption for a 170,000km car, un-tuned. 3K miles per 1L is nothing, your oil pan seal is probably just seeping, very common.

[@An0nDEViant]

A bad pcv causes a lot of oil consumption in any car

[@chinoc102]

I own a 2013 335i sport in shop now for oil filter housing gasket 100k miles. All good with that I'm still smoking camaros and mustangs. .see yaa..

[@ECPP]

They are plenty quick and tons of fun

[@glotek1]

Yep... I’ll stick to my e46 330i

[@iam_myster_e]

I’ll stick to my N52 lol no turbos needed

[@mikereinhardt5882]

Please keep scaring people away from the N54 platform so those of us who know difference between “maintenance” and “failure points” can scoop these babies up. It’s not a great daily driver-it takes a long time to get oil temp up before pulls or anything aggressive; it needs an oil catch can installed (about 300.00 US installed) to help prevent the carbon buildup….I have the 335is and have never blown a code in 15 track days at the Glen. Maintenance first!

[@mikereinhardt5882]

Also, doesn’t FCP Euro ship to Canada? Lifetime replacement on all parts, even oil.

[@quocnguyen7886]

B58 Engine 👌

[@thedaywalker5561]

I think you're pretty much on target with the common problems.... but way off on the price .....and lot of that you can fix yourself if you just take your time

[@ECPP]

I agree, DIY is the best option for these cars but these prices were largely through experience and research but again are mainly in Canadian dollars and dealers costs.

[@vw3576]

No shit. But damn are these a blast to drive

[@ECPP]

You betcha

[@saifalazza369]

I am getting scared everytime I watch a video of yours brother. I have 2016 F10 528i x. I even bought an old beat up car to commute and left my bmw home just not to put any mileage

[@ECPP]

That’s all good. Your car does not have any of the issues that are found in the I6 n54 engine that I have.! Enjoy, you have a great car just be sure to do your oil services.

[@saifalazza369]

I appreciate the advice and. Will do

[@Sideways_N55]

If you aren’t willing to work on your own car, N54 platform is not for you. I have a N54 with 220k miles that has had less than $1000 in replacement parts in the last 70k miles and runs smooth and strong with no issues. Just need to take care of the little things and do your research. Videos on my page of the car.

[@ECPP]

I really is a diy type of car but fortunately parts and advise are plentiful on line

[@ltdasilva93]

For those who look into remanufactured injectors... Don't. My n54 in 2017 I purchased and Bank 2 had brand new index 12s. So I bought 3 manufacturers 12s for bank 1. Ran fine for a while, but always hesitated. Been about a year and now cylinder one is dumping fuel and burning smoke out the taiil pipes. Once the exhaust heats up enough for the gas to start burning.

[@ltdasilva93]

Also, ive had every problem in the book. New turbos, valve cover, coil packs, spark plugs, lower control arms, vanos, boost solenoids, carbon blasting, silicone boost lines for boost leaks. Not to mention mods. BUT HEY, SHE RIPS BOYS.

[@geekybench]

Lmao bro I can change that waterpump and thermostat myself in under an hour max.

[@nickcooler2658]

BMW needs a lawsuit for selling garbage for people

[@ECPP]

I know right

[@fireburn1512]

BMW did it on purpose....all these decades of experience in Mechanics and still put plastic in a Furnace.....

[@MrKobedagreat24]

Wastegate rattle isnt the death of the car, its just annoying

[@ECPP]

If it sticks, you can lose boost as well.

[@johnnyroycerichardsoniii3273]

Meh, bought a cheap scan tool. No Problem Mane..

[@arctic6650]

Mr. Sunshine

[@ECPP]

That’s what owning an n54 does to a person

[@farmanshaikh6405]

6 Certified BMW mechanics disliked this video

[@ECPP]

Do they disagree ?

[@sipsimies1588]

10 hours to change the water pump, yes maybe if you let your dog change it

[@jacobpoole9366]

Your prices are wrong, my n54 has 194k miles and has been FBO for 100k, it’s called maintaining your shit

[@carterlynn9707]

This was so extra

[@ljc1821]

The unreliable driving machine. 😆

[@ECPP]

Haha. True enough especially for the n54 powered cars

[@icemanvalfan]

Madness the cost of those repairs.

[@ECPP]

Thats worse case scenario but deals ccan be found by going indie shops and outside dealers for partss.

[@f32_boost52]

Just buy a car with the N55 or B58. The N54 isn't worth it.

[@Blueknight1960]

So these are nothing more than very expensive throw away cars.

[@ECPP]

Maybe

[@Pesar25]

mm I understand, your hidden message is to buy a Hyundai.

[@ECPP]

Haha. No I am good thanks.

[@moakhiy3745]

Why would anyone who doesn’t work on their own car buy an n54? 😂 just learn to work on your own car or don’t buy one. 😅

[@TheLifeOfMartin]

This video makes it seem like bmws suck a lot

[@xrpadoption3293]

This guy is ALL sorts of wrong. Bad video.

[@ECPP]

All by experience my friend