BMW M54 engine

This page is a draft. It has not been approved yet, so read it with care.

Watch out for

Reputation: what owners and the press report. Tap one to see what to check.

Ageing cooling system Every version One source so far

What to check: Look for coolant leaks and a cracked expansion tank, and ask when the water pump, thermostat and hoses were last replaced.

Euro Premium Parts says cooling parts typically fail between 80,000 and 100,000 miles, recommends replacing them as a set, and warns that overheating even once can warp the aluminium head.

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Failed crankcase vent valve Every version One source so far

What to check: Look for white smoke and ask how much oil it uses.

Euro Premium Parts says the oil separator, or CCV, typically fails between 60,000 and 90,000 miles, with oil use, white smoke and a rough idle.

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Worn VANOS seals Every version One source so far

What to check: Feel for weak low-end torque and listen for a rattle on a cold start.

Euro Premium Parts says the VANOS seals typically wear out between 80,000 and 120,000 miles, and that a rebuild kit fixes it.

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