I’ve owned 4 N52 BMW’s This video taught me some more things I didn’t know! I had a 07 BMW X3 3.0si (N52B30)… when I purchased the car it had 167,000 miles, Needed to do spark plugs and a valve cover gasket. I had it all the way until 182K miles and it was totaled. The Valvetronic Motor is another common fault point. This occurred on my second 07 X3 With 192,000 miles. The valvetronic motor failed. Same with my 09 328i X-Drive With 178,000 miles. What happens is the valvetronic motor fails and oil will start to seep out of the worn gasket, then fill into your cylinders. That turns the crankshaft and you’ll develop a misfire & Reduced engine power. My went into limp mode. Easy repair. Takes an hour if you know what you’re doing. Other than oil leaks and those pesky Vanos Solonoids the N52 is a fantastic motor! Easy to work on, Cheap parts, Efficient and reliable and somewhat powerful! I’ve had pretty good experiences with my 4 BMW’s that have had the N52 Inline 6 Motor! They all made it past 170K miles! Pretty impressive for your average German saloon.
With the ticking issue, After doing some research I decided to try it. I put the car in park and hold it at 3500 revs for 3 minutes. I haven't heard the ticking for over a year now.
If that doesn’t work running the liqui moly engine flush can help to clear passages allowing oil to better reach lifters. Not recommended except as a last resort (why test old seals if you don’t need to).
I'm at 265k miles, and my car rumbles while slowing from like 5-0 and while stopped. Don't know why, but I'll just buy another trans if it it needs it at this point
I have n52 325xi 2005r and is at 436000km. Everything's good. Last time i had to repair oil leaks and vanos problems. Now it runs like a dream and it's really chip to drive because of LPG :)
@@d3admaub938 but it's true. Maybe engine was replaced, but i don't know. I had to put money to make this engine in good condition. However, mileage is real :)
Cool video, if you have a n52 engine I high recommend you replace the whole valve cover when replacing the gasket. The pcv valve is known to fail and it’s built into the valve cover, I just had to replace mine after replacing the vcg 20k miles ago! I’m currently at 170k.. also the valvetronic motor seal is known to leak as well, you’ll see oil in spark plug well 3 & 4
I replaced my valve cover GASKET in june and it started leaking again in late september. I just replaced my whole valve cover yesterday so I think that’s the best recommendation
Ticking is lifters, not necessarily PCV related. A bad idle can be plugs, vanos solenoids, low oil, a bad coil, and… a bad pcv. You can actually cut the pcv out of the valve cover and then superglue in a knock off, it’s actually pretty easy to do and only runs about $15.
I've got a 2011 328i E92 and it's such a great daily for me. I've had it for 5 years, drive it hard everyday (seriously, i beat on it all the time i live out on country roads) i've left it sitting for months at a time, and it just has always worked for me. upgraded the cooling system to a CSF radiator and everything else is oem. liquimoly oil changes 160k miles.
The key is to drive it hard. BMWs are meant to be driven hard. They were designed to drive o the autobahn. When you drive it normally, the CCV system gets gunked up. Short trips are bad for these vehicles. That’s when you get sludge. Then the solenoids and check valves gum up. But, if you drive it hard, the oil heats up and doesn’t get gummed up. The next time you pull the valve cover, check the vanos bolts. I replaced mine and I have a 2011 328xi. All the bolts were intact, but I was able to loosen the intake bolts effortlessly. Which told me, another 1000 miles and they would’ve loosened. I replaced all 8 bolts. A few thousand miles later, no issues. But I monitor the car like a hawk. Drive your cars hard, especially if you only do short trips. Drive it like you’re in the Indy 500.
@@iamurnamann8662 When you pulled the valve cover and found the vanos bolts that were still tight how many miles did you have on the car? Were you aware that there is a safety recall on the vanos bolts?
I love my 06 325i but I’d be lying if I wasn’t constantly under the hood. Nothing too big, just oil leaks, and some issues with my vvt system. It also has performance mods which probably doesn’t help
You left out a key fix- the plastic connector on the coolant to head connection right above the vanos solenoids. Replace it with an aluminum one - the best $10 you will ever spend.
As much as you feel that you've spoken about these issues before. I highly appreciate this video very much. I always prefer short a sweet videos that gets to the point. I am considering buying the e90 (2006) adn this helps so much in regards to all i need to look into and perhaps have all the above changed and a precaution, so that i can keep track on the issue that may come by again after stated mileage in the video. Kudos and thanks again!
On another note, i would love to know which particular e90 model to purchase. Iv gone through many reviews and at the moment, it has led me to look for the 2006 e90 with n52 (without lci/idrive or the navigator screen what that matter), to have the most reliable bmw e90 3 series for daily driving and long term pleasure. I hope this is true. Perhaps you can provide your input on this.
I have an 06 e87 n52 3ltr. The valve tick is an issue but only if you leave the car for a few days. I find you can drive around town/highway, doesn't matter, just do it for around 30 minutes and it goes away.
The cause of lift ticking is the lack of oil flow that goes into the valve adjusters. Which causes lack of lubrication that causes the ticking sound. Just place the Hydraulic Valve adjusters
Lol, N52 is rock solid reliable engine. Common issue #1 may require a new cylinder head. No big deal. BTW, if your hydraulic lifters are not pumping up properly your valves have reduced lift, meaning less power and possibly compromised air/fuel mixing in the chamber (reduced efficiency, increased emissions). The ticking is the follower crashing into the lifter, not a good situation. If this noise gets loud enough to be picked up by the knock sensors it could lead to reduced ignition timing, poor efficiency, higher exhaust gas temperature, and then reduced cat converter/O2 sensor life. Infrequent oil changes with poor quality oil increases deposits, which could be why the lifters (and VANOS solenoids) get fouled and don’t work properly.
I got a e92 from year 12.06 for like 3 years now. Im from germany and the car is a italian reimport. Best car i ever bought. it has now about 149000km on it. No leaks. no oil consumption. But as you said this valve lifter problem is common mine had it too. But only ive i drive short distances. Like to my work and home. im driving every weekend a longer distance. Letting the engine out you know. Didnt had this problem another time for now.. Changin the oil every 15000km
Apparently if you rev the engine at 3500k RPM Owners have claimed that the ticking noise disappears again like said on the video the ticking noise is not a major reason for detrimental failure. Congrats
(2006 BMW Z4 3.0si N52 Engine) A piece of the DISA valve ended up breaking off inside the intake runner and wedging the 3rd valve open. If you are hearing knocking consider this before you go further. This is a known issue of the DISA valve breaking but have not seen anything posted online about pieces ingested into the motor and hanging valves. Hope this helps someone.
I have a 2008 328xi and at 120k miles I had to do -eccentric valve sensor ($1,200, more depending on your mechanic) -new ecu ($1,300, more depending on your mechanic and shops that program used ecus suck) -valve cover gasket ($500) -battery ($200 plus you have to program it) -shocks all around ($400 labor by myself and suspension work on BMWs is a pain) -starter I can't personally recommend any BMW tbh. Just get a Honda lol. If you want a BMW get a 1999 or older, like a e36. You can buy a mid 2000's BMW for like $3k-8k these days, but the maintenance will end up costing more than the car is worth in under 2 years.
It was probably neglected before you got it. I have the exact same car E90 328xi and after 2 years all I have changed is the plugs, coils, belt and pullys and oil/filter. It has 87k on it now and it only leaks a tiny bit from the oil pan gasket. It is so quiet sometimes I don't even know if it is running. Mine is a 6MT. Was yours an automatic?
@@saganworshipper6062 yeah it's auto. I've owned it for 5 years and had to a bunch of other maintenance. This list is just the most recent. I also owned a x5, x3, 5 series and another 3 series and they all sucked. Only BMW I've liked was my 1999 e36. Those are bullet proof.
If you can DIY like it seems like you do it really isn’t that bad, especially if you like the driving dynamics of a rwd straight 6 bmw. If that’s not ur thing then yeah I’d say go with a Japanese/Korean car
My ‘06 E63 630i sport is on 83k miles.. the only issue I have is an occasional lifter tick. But I do real short journeys which doesn’t help. Great engine though..
@@SimplyCarThings heck u man mines at 107k miles and its been runs beautifully for the 2 years I've owned it and well my m3 is just a different beast of a car.
Some of the N52B30 and N52B25 have issues with the starter motor. I changed mine a couple a days ago after a complete death and a friend of mine, he own a 325i 2007, had the same problem
Yes, i had problems with my starter too...i already rebuild it 3 times since i have the car...nowadays has 196k..2011 325i e90..i'll purchase a Valeo new one...which brand is yours?
O6 525i , original owner - starter failed @ 70k, water pump @ 65k. Most gaskets & seals have been replaced (ha ha).Still my daily driver, enjoy the car.
@@richarddrozd1201that starter should be good for 50k miles at least And the timing being maintained you should be okay for 60-90k miles depending on your driving type.
Thank you for making this informative video keep making it's not a broken record I'm glad you keep bringing these things up on these different intricate engines I plan on getting one of these e90s sedans
Love my n52. The only thing i hate about my 05 325i is the manual transmission, and that's due to the stupid dual mass flywheel design flaw, which recks the clutch.
Manual is booty compared to the DCT transmisión The engines were made to excel on DCT transmisión You are not the only comment with a manual with problems here.
Just brought an 130I M Sport for my son. I drove it out of Auckland and was not super impressed with it. It was a 5 hour drive home and we beat the shit out of it. It goes real good now! We call that a Maori tune up here in NZ lol. It will now live were the sane people are in the country's and enjoy daily long runs. This is a great engine with plenty of power and fun to drive. Cheap to run too.
just bought mine last week 83k miles on my 128i 6 spd manual i roll onto throttle from a stop or on the highway and it shudders and lights up the chk engine then loses power until you restart.
Sounds like the previous owner abused it. Also manual isn’t chasing the problem? Sounds it’s not receiving fuel somewhere it’s not just going to shut off. Unless you restart it like you said The fuel supply is not consistent. Good luck
I have owned a BMW 530i from new in 2005 and was one of the first N52 engines. The engine has always been brilliant revving to 7000 rpm with ease. The car has been frugal and mixed driving around 31 mpg, Holiday long trip 34 to 36 mpg (UK gallon) and short journeys around 23 mpg. I did not have the first issue which is the lifters, car has done 156k and still quiet, The water pump did fail at around 103k but I had a water leak that I feel helped it fail. It should be pointed out it is mounted on the exhaust side of the engine and this is probably not a good environment, having said that 10 years is good reliability. Suspect that if the car is in a hotter climate the pump may be under more pressure. I have had the issue with the oil filter housing around 120k and my dealer changed the mounting as well as the engine material is different to the mounting and it distorts over time. The rocker cover has just started failing and it is annoying but will get it changed shortly however on some forums the vacuum diaphragm collapses and causes the engine idle to hunt, which mine does a bit so this needs to changed at the same time, its part of the rocker cover assembly. The Vanos issue I have not had however their are several videos showing how the clean the vanos solenoids and vanos stop valves, the solenoids are ok to do the stop valves are difficult to access and you need to remove the front wheel and liner to get access and its fiddly, worth doing as they do get dirty.
@@dmx2cool I don’t rev it to 7k all the time mostly cruise about and don’t go beyond 5k but with this engine peak power is 6600 rpm so 400 is not a lot more. However if you put it in sport mode and floor it the software does not change until it reaches 7k. When I first had car from new it did shock me but it does have valvetronic and vanos and hollow camshafts so it was designed to be rev happy. However it also has a very flat torque curve that is flat from 2400 to 5000 so both power and useable torque. Very good engine.
@@dennisstaines8005 7k redline. Injectors cut at that point. Pointless I don't go above 5k period with a zf8 speed in slap or auto. I have the higher n52 model in the x3 f25.
How is the all aluminum block with no casted inserts is not a major issue with this engine? Unlike M54 this one cant hold any significant HP load, Unless I am wrong, if I am wrong please explain someone
It is only a major issue for someone trying to hold a lot of people on the block. In the case of the N52 The N52 is the engine on the base 3 series that’s why the block is aluminum and not considered a problem.
I have a E90 BMW 328xi with this engine. Once in a while exhaust smells or a burnt smell comes into my interior from the behind the fire wall and climate vents. I need help understanding what’s going on... thoughts???
If it’s the passenger side, then check you’re valve cover gasket. It’s most likely leaking onto the exhaust manifold or something else that’s hot-hence the burning smell. You’ll see oil residue on the left side of your engine if it is a leak
@@wr8thbeatz322not necessarily If someone on UA-cam can replace their valve cover … you can also. It is recommended to replace the valve cover when you have a leaking gasket. PCV valve is placed in the head is known to fail and is built in the valve cover
My car shows a drive train malfunction issue and it doesn't give a good pickup. It's an 2012-328i 160k miles. Changed the mass airflow sensor, valvetronic system, and few other things. Any thoughts on this?
You most likely checked right after you did the oil change. New oil viscosity is like honey compared to old oil Remember to prime the oil filter next oil change so the oil filter won’t run dry.
At least you did them early and won’t have to do them again. The best case scenario is every common problem would be replaced regularly with maintenance for the engine to run as strong as factory
A few of the problems he talked about are covered by the SULEV warranty that is offered for cars with the N51 in SULEV recognized states such as California. It’s a 15year/150k mile warranty that will cover things such as the valve cover gaskets, radiator, fuel pump, vanos solenoids, and much more that the dealer has to fix for 100% free. Look into the SULEV warranty, i already had my radiator replaced for free.
thanks bro for the information I've heard that a couple of times already but unfortunately when I called bmw they say all the warranties for my car have already been done... but luckily I have a friend that's a certified BMW mechanic and I had everything serviced already except the dme fan that cools off CCC Idrive system I believe... My only check engine light left....
I got an 09 e92 xdrive I bought from my sister lollll, leaking oil right now, I replaced the coolant/oil filter housing gasket and it seem to help a little bit. I’m nervous driving it around afraid something would sudden break because it’s a bmw lolll. At least I have a Nissan 350z as a back up. After this video, I feel even more nervous 😩
@@Codreanu110 that's how i been feeling. I have PTSD from my first car that I bought "old volvo when i was in highschool" car runs smooth as butter but sometimes even just because of how quiet the engine is Im anxious
To get rid of the ticking, get out there are drive your car in a spirited fashion, you’ll find the ticking goes away. You’re probably doing small trips at low load and BMWs were designed to be driven by enthusiasts, not grannies. You certainly don’t need to replace the whole valve train!
You have to be gentle with the oil Once you add 4.5Liters of oil You should have turned on the car and let it run for 20 seconds until the oil level levels itself out. Also pour a base level of oil in the oil filter to prime the oil filter. Update
Tow that bih to your home or shop wherever you get your car work done. The car should have gone to limp mode. You need to replace the water pump And thermostat
Hey comment section I need some help. I’m trying to buy my first car and found a good deal on a 328i and the owner has all the service records done at bmw up till 2 months ago it’s a one owner car but I’m still hesitant to buy it as it will be my first car lmk if I should jump on it or not?
Add in a couple thousand in a maintenance fund just in case, check for oil leaks regularly and change the oil every 5-8k miles. I think the more you rev them all the way out the cleaner they run 😄
How is the oil consumption on N52 ? Some have bad experience there. (Edit : Since a year, I learned more about N52. Only early N52b25 have oil burning problem.)
I've had mines for 2 years and only have spent $1600 in maintance(oil changes spark plugs)repairs(valve cover gasket)and essentric shift sensor. So the is really reliable and I feel like it won't leave me stranded at all
@@Motorsports_3 just the water pump will leave you in limp mode. Unless you wanna drive 2 miles and let the car cool down for 20 minutes at a time that’s the only time you’ll need a tow truck unless you do it early (hint hint)
You can do that.. but I don’t like doing it from dead cold start. I hate lifter tick, and there’s no predicting when it’ll do it. Sometimes it can go 4/5 days and nothing, or it’ll do every cold start. I only do real short journeys tho so…that doesn’t help 🤷🏼♂️
Simply Car Things we all got to start somewhere you can learn and a lot of people can help you out🤷🏻♂️just something i thought about because you bmws you basically doing it but just not rebuilding the 328
Ay 6 motores pero todo son el N52 motor Todo la información en este video es relevante. Segure que su motor is N52. Le voy explicar usted en unos mis videos subscriba a mi canal.
Ay 6 motores pero todo son el N52 motor Todo la información en este video es relevante. Segure que su motor is N52. Le voy explicar usted en unos mis videos subscriba a mi canal.
También puede pretar el button que párese un engranaje en el lado derecho arriba cuando quiere pretar pausa Prete el selección Auto translate Luego elige español
Great engines, but not long lasting. Not unusual to replace head gaskets or have cracked cylinder heads. They have problems you NEVER see in a Toyota. Of course no other engine compares in terms of power or efficiency.
I think these cars are junk the leak oil because of all the plastic under the hood. I know a few other manufacturers are moving this way like Toyota. But Toyota valve covers don’t crack like BMW does. My 2011 BMW 328x drive is not a bad looking car but engineered to be the worst car built.
@@JesusChristisPlanetNibiru the best taxi is a a ford 4.6. Crown Victoria the n52 is a good engine it’s just the the ones that were made proir of 2006 were much better they had a aluminum valve cover instead of plastic kind that cracks but my Toyota is a 2003 Toyota solara runs like a top.
I’ve owned 4 N52 BMW’s This video taught me some more things I didn’t know!
I had a 07 BMW X3 3.0si (N52B30)… when I purchased the car it had 167,000 miles, Needed to do spark plugs and a valve cover gasket. I had it all the way until 182K miles and it was totaled.
The Valvetronic Motor is another common fault point. This occurred on my second 07 X3 With 192,000 miles. The valvetronic motor failed. Same with my 09 328i X-Drive With 178,000 miles. What happens is the valvetronic motor fails and oil will start to seep out of the worn gasket, then fill into your cylinders. That turns the crankshaft and you’ll develop a misfire & Reduced engine power. My went into limp mode. Easy repair. Takes an hour if you know what you’re doing.
Other than oil leaks and those pesky Vanos Solonoids the N52 is a fantastic motor! Easy to work on, Cheap parts, Efficient and reliable and somewhat powerful!
I’ve had pretty good experiences with my 4 BMW’s that have had the N52 Inline 6 Motor! They all made it past 170K miles! Pretty impressive for your average German saloon.
With the ticking issue, After doing some research I decided to try it. I put the car in park and hold it at 3500 revs for 3 minutes. I haven't heard the ticking for over a year now.
no kidding? thats awesome, if that solution works
What the hell
If that doesn’t work running the liqui moly engine flush can help to clear passages allowing oil to better reach lifters. Not recommended except as a last resort (why test old seals if you don’t need to).
Replace valve lifter
You literally hold it at that for 3 minutes ?
mine is at 373,000 kms with regular maintenance and she still runs and drives almost next to new
I'm at 265k miles, and my car rumbles while slowing from like 5-0 and while stopped. Don't know why, but I'll just buy another trans if it it needs it at this point
I have n52 325xi 2005r and is at 436000km. Everything's good. Last time i had to repair oil leaks and vanos problems. Now it runs like a dream and it's really chip to drive because of LPG :)
@@yankes1k757 that’s actually insane
@@d3admaub938 but it's true. Maybe engine was replaced, but i don't know. I had to put money to make this engine in good condition. However, mileage is real :)
@@yankes1k757 mine is also on lpi vialle. 336000kms no problems no oil usage e60 n52b30
Cool video, if you have a n52 engine I high recommend you replace the whole valve cover when replacing the gasket. The pcv valve is known to fail and it’s built into the valve cover, I just had to replace mine after replacing the vcg 20k miles ago! I’m currently at 170k.. also the valvetronic motor seal is known to leak as well, you’ll see oil in spark plug well 3 & 4
this is some great advice! thanks for sharing man 👍
@B.B Rodriguez What symptoms to monitor for pcv valve failure? Is it rubbing/rumbling noise while accelerating when engine is cold?
@@anthonytan8751 Engine ticks kind of
I replaced my valve cover GASKET in june and it started leaking again in late september. I just replaced my whole valve cover yesterday so I think that’s the best recommendation
Ticking is lifters, not necessarily PCV related.
A bad idle can be plugs, vanos solenoids, low oil, a bad coil, and… a bad pcv.
You can actually cut the pcv out of the valve cover and then superglue in a knock off, it’s actually pretty easy to do and only runs about $15.
I've got a 2011 328i E92 and it's such a great daily for me. I've had it for 5 years, drive it hard everyday (seriously, i beat on it all the time i live out on country roads) i've left it sitting for months at a time, and it just has always worked for me. upgraded the cooling system to a CSF radiator and everything else is oem. liquimoly oil changes 160k miles.
have you had any problems with your vanos bolts?
@@raybutts9133 ive never had to do them.
WERE you aware that there is a recall on them?@@dinosoarskill17
The key is to drive it hard. BMWs are meant to be driven hard. They were designed to drive o the autobahn. When you drive it normally, the CCV system gets gunked up. Short trips are bad for these vehicles. That’s when you get sludge. Then the solenoids and check valves gum up. But, if you drive it hard, the oil heats up and doesn’t get gummed up. The next time you pull the valve cover, check the vanos bolts. I replaced mine and I have a 2011 328xi. All the bolts were intact, but I was able to loosen the intake bolts effortlessly. Which told me, another 1000 miles and they would’ve loosened. I replaced all 8 bolts. A few thousand miles later, no issues. But I monitor the car like a hawk. Drive your cars hard, especially if you only do short trips. Drive it like you’re in the Indy 500.
@@iamurnamann8662 When you pulled the valve cover and found the vanos bolts that were still tight how many miles did you have on the car? Were you aware that there is a safety recall on the vanos bolts?
N52B30 best BMW engine of all time!
I love my 06 325i but I’d be lying if I wasn’t constantly under the hood. Nothing too big, just oil leaks, and some issues with my vvt system. It also has performance mods which probably doesn’t help
Just got a f22 2017 m240i. Love the power and sound from stock b58. Can’t wait to upgrade.
congrats man! B58 is a seriously great platform
i would go for 135i Coupe, much better engine and easier to tune reliably
@@IsowihaI agree original comment just trying to flex.
Grandma and grandpa money everywhere cringe.
You left out a key fix- the plastic connector on the coolant to head connection right above the vanos solenoids.
Replace it with an aluminum one - the best $10 you will ever spend.
They should do an update video with more detail problems on the N52 engine.
As much as you feel that you've spoken about these issues before. I highly appreciate this video very much. I always prefer short a sweet videos that gets to the point. I am considering buying the e90 (2006) adn this helps so much in regards to all i need to look into and perhaps have all the above changed and a precaution, so that i can keep track on the issue that may come by again after stated mileage in the video. Kudos and thanks again!
On another note, i would love to know which particular e90 model to purchase. Iv gone through many reviews and at the moment, it has led me to look for the 2006 e90 with n52 (without lci/idrive or the navigator screen what that matter), to have the most reliable bmw e90 3 series for daily driving and long term pleasure. I hope this is true. Perhaps you can provide your input on this.
Thank you so much for the feedback! Really appreciate the kind words man
no you're not a broken record I needed to hear this
Glad to hear that man, thanks for watching!
I have an 06 e87 n52 3ltr. The valve tick is an issue but only if you leave the car for a few days. I find you can drive around town/highway, doesn't matter, just do it for around 30 minutes and it goes away.
What is the cause then?
The cause of lift ticking is the lack of oil flow that goes into the valve adjusters. Which causes lack of lubrication that causes the ticking sound.
Just place the Hydraulic Valve adjusters
Ha you look like Bradley Cooper! regards from Ireland. Great vid, I am thinking about getting this in a z4
Lol, N52 is rock solid reliable engine. Common issue #1 may require a new cylinder head. No big deal.
BTW, if your hydraulic lifters are not pumping up properly your valves have reduced lift, meaning less power and possibly compromised air/fuel mixing in the chamber (reduced efficiency, increased emissions).
The ticking is the follower crashing into the lifter, not a good situation. If this noise gets loud enough to be picked up by the knock sensors it could lead to reduced ignition timing, poor efficiency, higher exhaust gas temperature, and then reduced cat converter/O2 sensor life.
Infrequent oil changes with poor quality oil increases deposits, which could be why the lifters (and VANOS solenoids) get fouled and don’t work properly.
I got a e92 from year 12.06 for like 3 years now. Im from germany and the car is a italian reimport. Best car i ever bought. it has now about 149000km on it. No leaks. no oil consumption. But as you said this valve lifter problem is common mine had it too. But only ive i drive short distances. Like to my work and home. im driving every weekend a longer distance. Letting the engine out you know. Didnt had this problem another time for now.. Changin the oil every 15000km
Apparently if you rev the engine at 3500k RPM
Owners have claimed that the ticking noise disappears again like said on the video the ticking noise is not a major reason for detrimental failure. Congrats
My Z4 E86 117k just regular maintenance easy to work on
🤙🏼🤙🏼
(2006 BMW Z4 3.0si N52 Engine)
A piece of the DISA valve ended up breaking off inside the intake runner and wedging the 3rd valve open. If you are hearing knocking consider this before you go further. This is a known issue of the DISA valve breaking but have not seen anything posted online about pieces ingested into the motor and hanging valves. Hope this helps someone.
2yrs from now and it definitely is helpful 💯
glad to hear that brotha!
I have a 2008 328xi and at 120k miles I had to do
-eccentric valve sensor ($1,200, more depending on your mechanic)
-new ecu ($1,300, more depending on your mechanic and shops that program used ecus suck)
-valve cover gasket ($500)
-battery ($200 plus you have to program it)
-shocks all around ($400 labor by myself and suspension work on BMWs is a pain)
-starter
I can't personally recommend any BMW tbh. Just get a Honda lol. If you want a BMW get a 1999 or older, like a e36. You can buy a mid 2000's BMW for like $3k-8k these days, but the maintenance will end up costing more than the car is worth in under 2 years.
It was probably neglected before you got it. I have the exact same car E90 328xi and after 2 years all I have changed is the plugs, coils, belt and pullys and oil/filter. It has 87k on it now and it only leaks a tiny bit from the oil pan gasket. It is so quiet sometimes I don't even know if it is running. Mine is a 6MT. Was yours an automatic?
@@saganworshipper6062 yeah it's auto. I've owned it for 5 years and had to a bunch of other maintenance. This list is just the most recent. I also owned a x5, x3, 5 series and another 3 series and they all sucked. Only BMW I've liked was my 1999 e36. Those are bullet proof.
@@NeilOpare Why did you keep buying them if they all sucK?
If you can DIY like it seems like you do it really isn’t that bad, especially if you like the driving dynamics of a rwd straight 6 bmw. If that’s not ur thing then yeah I’d say go with a Japanese/Korean car
Well im sure ur paying for a mechanic to do it. Yourself can work on these cars easily and parts arnt crazy 90% of the time on this car
My ‘06 E63 630i sport is on 83k miles.. the only issue I have is an occasional lifter tick. But I do real short journeys which doesn’t help. Great engine though..
Love my N52 203K miles on that bish and she’s going strong
hell yea bro, they're great engines !
@@SimplyCarThings heck u man mines at 107k miles and its been runs beautifully for the 2 years I've owned it and well my m3 is just a different beast of a car.
Some of the N52B30 and N52B25 have issues with the starter motor.
I changed mine a couple a days ago after a complete death and a friend of mine, he own a 325i 2007, had the same problem
Yes, i had problems with my starter too...i already rebuild it 3 times since i have the car...nowadays has 196k..2011 325i e90..i'll purchase a Valeo new one...which brand is yours?
O6 525i , original owner - starter failed @ 70k, water pump @ 65k. Most gaskets & seals have been replaced (ha ha).Still my daily driver, enjoy the car.
@@richarddrozd1201that starter should be good for 50k miles at least
And the timing being maintained you should be okay for 60-90k miles depending on your driving type.
Thank you for making this informative video keep making it's not a broken record I'm glad you keep bringing these things up on these different intricate engines I plan on getting one of these e90s sedans
Very good and frank review of N52 engine as I have experience it after 3 years now. But I guess it is better than the notorious Audis engine
That’s what Audi gets for not letting VWs be AWD standard.
Love my n52. The only thing i hate about my 05 325i is the manual transmission, and that's due to the stupid dual mass flywheel design flaw, which recks the clutch.
Manual is booty compared to the DCT transmisión
The engines were made to excel on DCT transmisión
You are not the only comment with a manual with problems here.
Really enjoying these videos Omar good work 👍👍👍
Around 100K refresh the cooling system, change the plugs and could and address any oil leaks and the engine will last forever.
Just brought an 130I M Sport for my son. I drove it out of Auckland and was not super impressed with it. It was a 5 hour drive home and we beat the shit out of it. It goes real good now! We call that a Maori tune up here in NZ lol. It will now live were the sane people are in the country's and enjoy daily long runs. This is a great engine with plenty of power and fun to drive. Cheap to run too.
You’re just telling the ECU to make the engine run harder.
What is the update?
my local repco parts store the vanos solanoids are $750 each for the n52, wtf
just bought mine last week 83k miles on my 128i 6 spd manual i roll onto throttle from a stop or on the highway and it shudders and lights up the chk engine then loses power until you restart.
Sounds like the previous owner abused it.
Also manual isn’t chasing the problem?
Sounds it’s not receiving fuel somewhere it’s not just going to shut off.
Unless you restart it like you said
The fuel supply is not consistent. Good luck
I have owned a BMW 530i from new in 2005 and was one of the first N52 engines. The engine has always been brilliant revving to 7000 rpm with ease. The car has been frugal and mixed driving around 31 mpg, Holiday long trip 34 to 36 mpg (UK gallon) and short journeys around 23 mpg. I did not have the first issue which is the lifters, car has done 156k and still quiet, The water pump did fail at around 103k but I had a water leak that I feel helped it fail. It should be pointed out it is mounted on the exhaust side of the engine and this is probably not a good environment, having said that 10 years is good reliability. Suspect that if the car is in a hotter climate the pump may be under more pressure. I have had the issue with the oil filter housing around 120k and my dealer changed the mounting as well as the engine material is different to the mounting and it distorts over time. The rocker cover has just started failing and it is annoying but will get it changed shortly however on some forums the vacuum diaphragm collapses and causes the engine idle to hunt, which mine does a bit so this needs to changed at the same time, its part of the rocker cover assembly. The Vanos issue I have not had however their are several videos showing how the clean the vanos solenoids and vanos stop valves, the solenoids are ok to do the stop valves are difficult to access and you need to remove the front wheel and liner to get access and its fiddly, worth doing as they do get dirty.
7000rpms?!?! Please do not rev out n series this high. Foo u asking for a new engine?
@@dmx2cool I don’t rev it to 7k all the time mostly cruise about and don’t go beyond 5k but with this engine peak power is 6600 rpm so 400 is not a lot more. However if you put it in sport mode and floor it the software does not change until it reaches 7k. When I first had car from new it did shock me but it does have valvetronic and vanos and hollow camshafts so it was designed to be rev happy. However it also has a very flat torque curve that is flat from 2400 to 5000 so both power and useable torque. Very good engine.
@@dennisstaines8005 7k redline. Injectors cut at that point. Pointless I don't go above 5k period with a zf8 speed in slap or auto. I have the higher n52 model in the x3 f25.
@@dmx2cool dudes revving like it’s a GT3RS
Good video man u know the problems .
Cash Tracka thank you man 👍🏼
How is the all aluminum block with no casted inserts is not a major issue with this engine? Unlike M54 this one cant hold any significant HP load, Unless I am wrong, if I am wrong please explain someone
It is only a major issue for someone trying to hold a lot of people on the block.
In the case of the N52
The N52 is the engine on the base 3 series that’s why the block is aluminum and not considered a problem.
I have a E90 BMW 328xi with this engine. Once in a while exhaust smells or a burnt smell comes into my interior from the behind the fire wall and climate vents. I need help understanding what’s going on... thoughts???
Oil leak, probably a leaking gasket.
If it’s the passenger side, then check you’re valve cover gasket. It’s most likely leaking onto the exhaust manifold or something else that’s hot-hence the burning smell. You’ll see oil residue on the left side of your engine if it is a leak
@@OfficialCinco this is exactly what it was. It’s a 700-1000$ job 😭
@@wr8thbeatz322not necessarily
If someone on UA-cam can replace their valve cover … you can also.
It is recommended to replace the valve cover when you have a leaking gasket.
PCV valve is placed in the head is known to fail and is built in the valve cover
My car shows a drive train malfunction issue and it doesn't give a good pickup. It's an 2012-328i 160k miles. Changed the mass airflow sensor, valvetronic system, and few other things. Any thoughts on this?
Very good video, I recently changed my engine oil, and I stopped getting the engine oil reading, could you explain
Thank you, you should be able to see the engine oil reading in the little screen between the speedometer/tachometer
Usually when u change the oil, it takes a sec to get a reading resulting in no immediate reading
The engine has to be warmed up in order for the level to be displayed in the gauge cluster.
You most likely checked right after you did the oil change.
New oil viscosity is like honey compared to old oil
Remember to prime the oil filter next oil change so the oil filter won’t run dry.
Just replaced the vanos gears and timing guides on my n52. Really pissed me off considering it’s only got 53k miles
At least you did them early and won’t have to do them again.
The best case scenario is every common problem would be replaced regularly with maintenance for the engine to run as strong as factory
Which diagnostic tool do you prefer??
just subbed and liked. Such a well made informative video
Also just purchased a 11' 328i coupe, white on coral red. just under 70k
Why don't clean the vanos solenoid using ultrasonic cleaner?
Great content Omar all of these issues happen to my n51 sulev coupe at 100,000 miles
A few of the problems he talked about are covered by the SULEV warranty that is offered for cars with the N51 in SULEV recognized states such as California. It’s a 15year/150k mile warranty that will cover things such as the valve cover gaskets, radiator, fuel pump, vanos solenoids, and much more that the dealer has to fix for 100% free. Look into the SULEV warranty, i already had my radiator replaced for free.
thanks bro for the information I've heard that a couple of times already but unfortunately when I called bmw they say all the warranties for my car have already been done... but luckily I have a friend that's a certified BMW mechanic and I had everything serviced already except the dme fan that cools off CCC Idrive system I believe... My only check engine light left....
I got an 09 e92 xdrive I bought from my sister lollll, leaking oil right now, I replaced the coolant/oil filter housing gasket and it seem to help a little bit. I’m nervous driving it around afraid something would sudden break because it’s a bmw lolll. At least I have a Nissan 350z as a back up. After this video, I feel even more nervous 😩
Kenny Phun mine is at 180k no major issues. As long as you keep it up, you’ll be just fine!
Mine is an LCI e90 rwd btw
Temi O. Appreciate you taking your time to give me a peace of mind bro 👍
@@kennyphun1946 no problem bro, enjoy that car!
German cars are over engineered and most drivers are nervous they’re sitting on an unexploded mine.
@@Codreanu110 that's how i been feeling. I have PTSD from my first car that I bought "old volvo when i was in highschool" car runs smooth as butter but sometimes even just because of how quiet the engine is Im anxious
Change the oil every 7500km with BMW 5w-30 or Shell 5w-30 and never have any engine issue
Noooooo man please dont sell the car i love seeing the n52 videos
hopefully we'll get another one!
Simply Car Things please do i love the information you give about them
To get rid of the ticking, get out there are drive your car in a spirited fashion, you’ll find the ticking goes away. You’re probably doing small trips at low load and BMWs were designed to be driven by enthusiasts, not grannies.
You certainly don’t need to replace the whole valve train!
That’s only band aiding the issue though
Technically you have to get the hydraulic balance adjusters replaced.
120,000 today for my 238i happy to know i can last 200,000
How good it a six speed manual in a 328i? It's good brah.
Not based on these comments lol
I'm sorry I'm confused is the 2.5 the N52 and the N53 is the 3.0 in the 330i? Or is the N52 two generations? 2.5 and 3.0? If so is the 2.5 reliable?
N52 has 2 generation, and they both good (2.5-3.0)
2.5 is the same engine as the 3.0. So both are the N52, the 2.5 is just detuned really
Specifically N52
BMW has a list of 3.0 and 2.5liter engines but your engine has to be the N52 engine to be relevant to this video.
Great info have n54 and n52 my ol reliable ? My n52🖤🖤🖤
Thanks bro!
Is this for the 3ltr or the 2.5 ltr.
The common problem videos do not specify liters. So I’m guessing the same
Just make sure yours is the n52 block
밸브리프트 소음, 바노스, 전자식워터펌프, 누유 해외에서도 똑같은 증상이구나...
Nobody understands u
I can understand what's saying lol
Probably the cars over seas run better because people car for what they own unlike the United States 🤦🏼
Make sure everyone replaces their cooling hoses . mines bursted at 100,000 miles . oh and Waterpump ans Thermo .
Great points thank you for adding to the list! 👌🏼
Was yours remapped? Cooling hoses seems like the odd ball tbh
Sounds like your water pump and thermostats failed and running a broken water pump stressed your cooling lines leading to them needing to be replaced.
@@12MojoI wouldn’t say remapped but neglected to the point of needing to be replaced.
my check engine light is on and i just changed the oil however im getting rough ideling at 115k miles,wtf is going on!??
Overfilled?
You have to be gentle with the oil
Once you add 4.5Liters of oil
You should have turned on the car and let it run for 20 seconds until the oil level levels itself out.
Also pour a base level of oil in the oil filter to prime the oil filter.
Update
I just got a 2004 bmw series 3 320i and the temperature gauge runs constantly on red even when I first start the car any fix for this ??
Yes turn off the engine and fix the plumbing. If you haven’t fried the heads already.
Tow that bih to your home or shop wherever you get your car work done.
The car should have gone to limp mode.
You need to replace the water pump
And thermostat
@@Codreanu110let me get honey mustard with them fried pistons
Rate my N52, although its loving oil atm
Hey comment section I need some help. I’m trying to buy my first car and found a good deal on a 328i and the owner has all the service records done at bmw up till 2 months ago it’s a one owner car but I’m still hesitant to buy it as it will be my first car lmk if I should jump on it or not?
Add in a couple thousand in a maintenance fund just in case, check for oil leaks regularly and change the oil every 5-8k miles. I think the more you rev them all the way out the cleaner they run 😄
@@bwdrives actully ended up buying it fixed the suspension changed the oil. And I’m not close to a thousand miles I’m so far it’s been an amazing car.
I bought one as my first real car almost a year ago and it's cost me about $2000 lol mostly doing stuff myself.
Thnx for the info
How is the oil consumption on N52 ? Some have bad experience there.
(Edit : Since a year, I learned more about N52. Only early N52b25 have oil burning problem.)
N52B25 here, 0.5L /1000km 5w40, but just when its hot outside
I have 124k miles, and my 328i doesn't burn any oil
My 525i leaks more than it uses , but it's a very minor sump gasket leak ,but it is very clean oil .
*I dragged one of these BMWs at the traffic light yesterday in my 90% stock 04 GS300, no turbo*
With a v8 I hope u would 😂😂 the n52 one the slowest beamers ever made and I bet bro still was pulling on you 😅😂
You running a V8 Lexus against a BMW?
You know BMW got v10s right?
You know what Lexus still doesn’t have ? Bluetooth on the LFA. 💀
What's the annual maintenance cost of this engine type ??
I've had mines for 2 years and only have spent $1600 in maintance(oil changes spark plugs)repairs(valve cover gasket)and essentric shift sensor. So the is really reliable and I feel like it won't leave me stranded at all
1500 year
@@Motorsports_3 just the water pump will leave you in limp mode. Unless you wanna drive 2 miles and let the car cool down for 20 minutes at a time that’s the only time you’ll need a tow truck unless you do it early (hint hint)
@@iam_myster_e wouldn’t it give you a code before going out since it’s electric?
@@raphael7606 not at all, it fails suddenly then will show the code by that time you are calling a tow truck unless it fails at home by miracle
The more you know. #knowledge
😎
Just rev to 3k at idle for 3 mins to flood them again
You can do that.. but I don’t like doing it from dead cold start. I hate lifter tick, and there’s no predicting when it’ll do it. Sometimes it can go 4/5 days and nothing, or it’ll do every cold start. I only do real short journeys tho so…that doesn’t help 🤷🏼♂️
I sometimes forget to like
I put marvels mystery oil into my friends e46 and it got rid of the lifter tick immediately
Lucas oil stabilizer it works no bullshit no tick
Marvel mystery oil is point that’s why. They should add after every oil change
It will only make the engine run better.
Great vid bro. Mine is a 2008 325i SE with a 2996cc engine. Is mine an N52 engine?
Nah bro thats an ls3
Are you trolling
You talking about CCs like it’s a motorcycle
Got all issues with my N52n engine.
Me too!
More 335i videos
why don’t you try to get a bmw that you salvage good content and entertaining to watch
I would really like to, but i'm not sure i'm confident enough to fix one up on my own
Simply Car Things we all got to start somewhere you can learn and a lot of people can help you out🤷🏻♂️just something i thought about because you bmws you basically doing it but just not rebuilding the 328
@@luisfregoso5221 This is a great point, im really going to look into it and see what I can do in the near future!
todo en ingles, no entiendo nada, hay 6 motores n52, el 258cv es el bueno
Ay 6 motores pero todo son el N52 motor
Todo la información en este video es relevante.
Segure que su motor is N52.
Le voy explicar usted en unos mis videos subscriba a mi canal.
Ay 6 motores pero todo son el N52 motor
Todo la información en este video es relevante.
Segure que su motor is N52.
Le voy explicar usted en unos mis videos subscriba a mi canal.
También puede pretar el button que párese un engranaje en el lado derecho arriba cuando quiere pretar pausa
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Bradley cooper, is that you? 😜
Personally had the VANOS system fail on me at 120,000km (70,000miles ish) and that cost me about $3500 haha
Also had that lifter tick, lived with it for 60,000km until I sold the car at 200,000km. My new f30 is so much more reliable lol
Damn that sucks
Ponga Pandit he could have also tried cleaning them first
Ponga Pandit that’s true, either way $3500 is robbery, way too much for 4 tiny bolts
@@luis4210 for real they really robbed him an not even blind folded like taking candy from a baby 🤣😂
My 07 530i rolling past 178k and still super tight and smooth.
Congratulations
What happened to this car?
Dude.....he used his turn signal😵
Great engines, but not long lasting. Not unusual to replace head gaskets or have cracked cylinder heads. They have problems you NEVER see in a Toyota. Of course no other engine compares in terms of power or efficiency.
Because Toyota is a taxi car nothing more and nothing less.
Also Toyota is not a premium like BMW
BMW will last and outlast if probably taken care of.
I think these cars are junk the leak oil because of all the plastic under the hood. I know a few other manufacturers are moving this way like Toyota. But Toyota valve covers don’t crack like BMW does. My 2011 BMW 328x drive is not a bad looking car but engineered to be the worst car built.
Because Toyota engines are taxi engines
They are meant for A to B
Run both hard at the same pace and speed from factory and BMW is stronger.
@@JesusChristisPlanetNibiru the best taxi is a a ford 4.6. Crown Victoria the n52 is a good engine it’s just the the ones that were made proir of 2006 were much better they had a aluminum valve cover instead of plastic kind that cracks but my Toyota is a 2003 Toyota solara runs like a top.
These cars barely survive the lease term. Fancy looking but complete junk underneath, which is why the used ones are dirt cheap.
Just like anything though
It’s not that they survive regular wear and tear.
Their owners are too cheap to properly maintain them.
Bmw🤮
Love my N52 203K miles on that bish and she’s going strong