5 Common Problems with the Used BMW 528i Engine

 5 Common Problems with the Used BMW 528i

 Engine

BMW engines are well known for their good fuel economy and performance based engineering. Their uncompromising compatibility without losing their sophistication keeps them apart from other car brands of the same genre. There are plenty of pros of each and every type of BMW engine, but there is no hardware in the world which does not have problems, BMW is also not an exception in this.

The specific engine that is being looked at here is a Used BMW 528i Engine. If any of you is reading this, of course you own a BMW 5 series or 3 Series and you know that your vehicle is fitted with an exceptional unit with tons of attributes that enhances your rides performance and fuel efficiency. But, it would not be wrong to say that you have plenty of problems with it as well. If you are thinking for a swap with a used engine, then you’re on the right path. But one must be aware of the disadvantages they might have to face with a used unit. 

 It’s not that the disadvantages of this engine outweighs its advantages, but there are few things which should be clear in buyers mind, if one is thinking to buy a used BMW 528i engine.

1. Timing Chain Problems

The timing chain in the BMW 528i’s  engine has been a major source of concern. It is located at the rear of the engine, making the inspection and repair labor intensive and expensive. Its common that the plastic chain guides wear down or break over time, causing the chain to slack or jump teeth. If left unresolved, this issue can lead to complete engine failure, & this can happen without any warning. This type of defect is a major tell about the health of the engine, do not go for a unit with such issue, no matter how cheap it may come.

2. Maintenance Costs

Even routine checks like oil changes, brake pad replacements, and spark plug servicing often cost way more than with non-luxury brands, but owning a BMW 528i means committing to an overall higher-than-average maintenance expenses. Labor charges are typically higher at BMW-certified service centers, because no ordinary mechanic can do the repairs. For long-term ownership, one must keep in mind to have some sort of insurance or savings.

3. Oil Leaks

Oil leaks are a common headache for many car owners, BMW owners are not excluded from this. The most frequent reason for this are the valve cover gasket and oil filter gaskets, which are made of rubber and prone to hardening and cracking over time. A BMW 528i is not an exception here. If ignored for long, the leaks may lead not just to low oil levels and engine damage.

4. Turbocharger Concerns

The turbocharger in the N20 engine delivers great performance as an inline 4 engine, but it comes with some issues. One common problem is a waste-gate rattle sound that comes from the turbocharger. Drivers may also experience boost loss due to leaks in the turbo pipes or in connections of intercooler. When the turbocharger fails, it can cost thousands of dollars to replace. If the used BMW 528i engine your about to buy has any turbocharger related issue, drop that unit then and there.

5. Carbon Build-Up

Direct injection system in inline-4 engines can suffer from carbon build-up on the intake valves because fuel does not get splashed on them during combustion, because they come with turbochargers. This build-up reduces airflow inside the engine chamber and can lead to performance issues such as rough idle, misfires, reduced fuel efficiency, and even checks engine light being lit. Always take special look at the unit your about to purchase, the carbon build up can be seen easily.

6. Cooling System Issues

The electric water pump of BMW 528i is quite efficient but tends to fail around 60,000 to 90,000 miles. When this happens, the engine starts to heat quickly, leading to serious damage if not shut down immediately. The thermostat, which works alongside the pump, is also a common failure point. Replacing these components can be costly,

7. Less Reliability Over Time

As BMW 528i models age, their reliability tends to decline due to the complexity of their engineering. Components like electronic sensors, plastic cooling parts start to fail. These failures often trigger check engine lights and increase the number of repeated trips to the repair shop, especially if you have bought a used BMW 528i engine.

Final Conclusion

Keeping in mind all of these factors, it is less likely that you will get a faulty used engine. All of the above factors make sure that you ask expert level queries from your buyer. Knowledge of such is quite necessary when you going in to unknown territory of buying a specific engine, many shady online sellers always try to withheld information regarding such purchases so that they can trade a faulty unit without  you being aware.