I love this guy. Just a regular guy who knows a ton about BMW *through experience* and is gracious enough to enjoy sharing all that knowledge with the world. This guy is the salt of the earth.
My family had BMWs since the late 1960s. When I bought a 1997 E39 528i it was a good car until things started to break at 100k. The M52B28 was great, the manual transmission was great, the whole driveline, suspension, and brakes were great, but the electronics was horrible. So now I drive a 1991 BMW E30 318i 4 door with a manual transmission. It's great
E46 M54 crew, represent! 🎉 Love my 325xi Touring. Has 225k+ miles, and literally had Factory Original Russian-made Bosch spark plugs in it when I purchased months back. Thing is a beast, and I'm prepared to spend a fortune making it run perfectly again. 😓
M62TU with 130000 miles. Still strong pulls like train no issues. Just done oil change, dropped the lower oil pan to check for any pieces of guides or shavings. All clean as new so replaced the gasket. Thinking to do the same every oil change just to be sure. When watching Nathan’s videos even thinking to do the guides with the next oil change as bit worried. So far so good happy with the car.
my e60 n52k is at 187000. Everything maintained my me. I never go to the stealership. recently replaced all my transmission solenoids. now car shifts even more better 🙏🏼🤙really reliable to me
I've got E60 530i with N53, with some 190k km. I'm still satisfied with it, very difficult to think what could replace it. F06 with N57, maybe, but yearly tax for cars with diesel engine in here is insane (unless you drive a lot). I'm kind of looking forward to what kind of EV's BMW comes up but not holding my breath.
E60 m54 bought from a kid 217,000 miles, before he let the coolant leak out from Jerry rigging a coolant hose. I replaced with 72,000 mile engine. Driven 10,000 miles since and love the car. Dropped down the transmission mectronics unit and replaced the rubber seals. Shifts much better, but I think a solenoid is going out, cause shifts really late after heavy acceleration
IT'S NOT COMMONLY KNOWN or N51 smog hungry states, but because it's so much lower emissions it dose not strain the motor. Mine 2010 328i E92 m sport 3.0 L naturally aspirated and runs very well. So far no real problem after 10 years. Only change the plugs, oil, fluids. Tires& Battery one time so far. Ya great car. BUT you must do the maintenance by the book and as I said it's been very good to me. Now with 106.000 miles and still runs and drives like its still new. But also I'm an engineer, do my own stuff have 2 dedicated computer's to the BMW and well no real problems so far. Hopefully, and when, I will take care of it. Alway's have. THANKS NATHAN. LIKE YOU CAR COLLECTION !!
1st I have a 2012 128i (convertible) with a N52. I avoided the N51 for 2 specific reasons. Minor, some of the electronic bits are different and can be difficult to source. Major, (according to the internet experts?!?). To get the horsepower up on the N51 they use the DISA system from EU N52's to make up for lower horsepower from the smog detune. The plastic dampers in the manifold to improve intake velocity's can/will break and get sucked into cylinders 2, 3 and 4. Which grenades the engine. According to the internet experts! 63 year old Chen Eng been doing MINOR wrenching since 1975, Ford Torino, Chevy Camaro (convertible), Jeep CJ5 (convertible), Buick Skyhawk, Chrysler LeBaron GTS (convertible), 96 BMW 328 (convertible). Lots of other new cars during the last 40 plus years (2006 Pontiac Solstice convertible) that wife and I had dealer work only.
I had a M54-480,000km ran like new (synthetic oil change every 5k). Had N52N-395,000km ran like new. Sold both of these because I wanted something newer (I was bored of those two cars) I now still own N52-227,000km runs new, N52N-420,000km engine runs again like new. I now change oil every 7k. That’s about 5 thousand miles. That’s the key. Very Very reliable. Then again I sometimes fix something like a crank sensor and I think it’s no big deal, I don’t even remember what that sensor cost, maybe 50 bucks. Someone ELSE would go to the dealer and that would be $500 and they would say that the cars junk lol
damned I had a friend who gave his old M54 engine because it was parked for quite a while I was compelled to spend like $5K for parts labor to replace those hoses/ tubes, coollant tank, crankcase Valve cold climate, probably will change the EGR Valve as well. Hope it can survived that long it's has 195K miles already. Currently it's running right now, after a few months of just staying in the parking area... I am thinking of doing 5K change oil as well.
@@Winter1256 sure, but most people running that engine don't do that kind of maintnance and end up with broken timing chains, injectors, fuel pump and so on... It's a very efficient engine though
I could agree for some reasons, also arguable, but it’s all about how it was done from factory to be maintained with preventative maintenance that only owner is responsible for after it’s sold to first owner as well. So I agree that v10 e60 has less factory problems that wasn’t solved unlike the cars that got in to mass production and to fix issues they had to do a few recalls until “facelift” model was released. Just my opinion. ✅👍🏼
@@ikeirvine7850 Actually my M52 has an aluminum engine block:D We europeans got the alloy engine block much earlier than the us. An M52 with an iron block of course is even more durable.
The Nikasil snafu ruined the reputation of the M60 but I had great luck with it. I retired my '95 540i with a hair under 300k. The transmission too ... the 5hp30 is a massive beast that had some teething problems, but with regular maintenance mine performed well for the life of the car. The Dinan TCU chip really woke it up, too. Of course, all that hardware is pretty ancient at this point.
Mid 2015 n20 with 50k and no problems of any kind. Change oil every 5k, probably more often than necessary. Good daily driver. When I crave more performance, I enjoy my e93 n54. Also been a great car.
E60 owner with an N54 here...I'm all in for $8000 (bought car for $2400, fixed it for $5600 and upgraded a bunch of stuff). Has upgraded turbos and all of the boltons ready to go for 600 horsepower, but after the first drive, the Mosfets failed lol
M54 on E39 is the's the most reliable engine to me. You won't need to fix any rod bearings like the E60. If I had those skills like Nathan then I might and also the shop lift is critical
Ask Mr. N how many E60 M5 of his choice will ever see that kind of milage and still on the road...M54 was the mist reliable somehow modern engine ever made by BMW.
my 2002 E39 with M54 and manual trans was very well cared for by original owner and is now, at 20 years old and with 180k miles, it’s still like a new car. Everything works, runs perfect. All i had to do was replace the original radiator this year. I’m so lucky to have found one so nice.
It's ok to piss people off Nathan the N54 loves money and time but it is very rewarding and are not that bad to work on, The motor has a very strong bottom end. The problems are all the components attached to the motor that are made of plastic, I.E. water pump, thermostat, valve cover, pcv etc. The real positive aspect of the N54 is that they can be very easily tuned to make over 500 hp and gap the M3 with a v8. Fun fact the N54 with over boost makes 379 ft. lbs. of torque at 2000 rpm vs e90 M3 v8 only makes 299! ft. lbs. of torque at 6500 rpms
120k on my S52 and so far all the things that failed are the alternator, starter, SAP, coolant level sensor and charcoal canister solenoid. I put in a Stewart water pump because why not? Original water pump still works. Just got to address the leaks from the oil pan, oil filter housing and power steering. I did the valve cover gasket so there's that too.
Epileptic Rage... hahahahaha... i just KNEW.. we'd have at least one Nathanism.. needed that laugh. I agree with the whole vid. But no-surprise right haha.. Good stuff.
Great content. This has become my favorite BMW channel 👍. I just purchased a 2010 e90 N52 328i for my kid. Solid car after I fixed all the typical oil leaks, put new water pump/thermostat/radiator, new coils/spark plugs and belts. I also have a 2006 e46 M3 and I never see you addressing this car and the S54 engine. I wonder why? You went from e36 S52 to e9x S65… but never ever mention the S54?
Sun driving my 528i now for 3 years.. I drove it for ten before him... Now over 400.000k and still going strong but it needs some care..he does not do anything on it... I own a 2003 530i wagon and that one drives even better over 240.000 k and I maintain it myself hope to reach over 500.000... My favorite engine m54
@@b.k.s8910 I’ll agree with ya. I own a M54, N52, N55 and S55. The N52 is my least finicky, easiest to wrench on, cheapest to maintain (FCP Euro prices) and least worrisome. Just sayin.
Interesting take on this Would never expect the S85 to come out on top if I ever get one I’d go with a manual for sure! would like to see you talk about M52 M50 M44/42 S62 and S54 too see what you have to say about those although they are getting a bit older in age
@@stuartbear922 the coolant pipe lasts every 150k. Doesn’t have to be every 4 years- that’s an overkill. I just overhauled mine 2 years ago and it had most of the original cooling system (since 1997) parts except the water pump.
My N52 is extremely reliable ... it is now in its 15th year and the only things that needed fixing are the gaskets (which aren't lifetime components anyhow) and new spark plugs. I do all the regular servicing with BMW specialists who only use BMW parts and fluid specifications.
I have overheated my M52tu several times and it is fine. Absolutely fine. I had purchased a car in the fall and our first cold snap I got frozen coolant and it overheated several times on the way to the warm shop where I can drain it. Prior to that, the person I purchased it from, stated it overheated many times in the summer as well. It was a dead cooling fan. So it had overheated lots before I owned it. Solid machine. I honestly think the best series of engine they made was the M5x engines. Personal favourite is the M50NV for reliability. You just don’t get the issues with the Vanos and the DISA like the M54/52tu and parts are everywhere and super cheap. The M20 was also fantastic and frankly overbuilt for its purpose. My M62tu is great other than the Vanos and timing guides for sure. The oil separator being behind the timing cover on the Sedan version is kinda stupid.. the external one on the e53 is better in my opinion. But I think BMW can’t make a V engine quite like they do an inline. Honourable mention deserved for the M57 diesel. I think if you were to delete the EGR and Emissions controls it would be a solid reliable engine for a long time. And it’s a torque monster, gets awesome mileage. Either way, gone are the days of the big heavy iron blocks and back yard mechanic friendly BMWs.
@@slawomirczajkowski9481 the engine type?it comes with different engine types though most are 6 cylinders, but the early models had an M54 engine (6 cylinder)
He has it backwards! 😆 rod bearings is just the beginning on those, frequent Vanos failures are also common and a ton of other small issues, forum pages get 46 long about issues with this car and how expensive it is to fix. The N52 is by far the THE BEST! overall BMW motor, especially because of the magnesium/aluminum composite. My 06 328i has almost 200K has not seen a dealer yet and outside of the plastic parts that need to be replaced: water pump, therm, valve cover, oil pan, vanos rebuilt kit... this car is best for overall driving with plenty of power. I get 36mpg in steady hwy driving.
No Vanos rebuild kit for the n52 as far as I know, Vanos solenoids , Vanos units themselves, magnesium valve cover has cam ledge seal issues and lifter issues , all updated in 2008 , starter failures are BAD on the n52, all hoses , timing slipping etc
My e36 316i manufactured in 1994 312k km on it when when i bought it the speedo meter isn’t working so I don’t know the actual km on it. Very reliable with auto transmission
Not sure if you’ll spend as much on 6 cylinder car compared to e60 m5, given that many non-M BMWs are nearly practically free. E90 328i definitely will require less money than e90 m3 simply because 328i costs pretty much nothing. I do agree that e90 m3 is a good purchase, I myself should have gotten one instead of some supercharged v6 4 ring car.
@H H Idk. lol I just like the N52. S85 S65 are cool too but those designs seem overly complex, The N52 is outlandish in concept with the eccentric shaft but very simply built you know? Just my opinion though.
Makes me feel better after I’ve put all the money into my M5 to make sure it lasts. Thank you Nathan. (E60 M5 bought at 92k, At 106k now, did bearings at 93k, fuel filter, injectors, vanos line, cleaned vanos solenoids, motor mounts, and replaced everything possible on my Smg when i did clutch) I’m sure I’m missing a couple things - Zac
A 94 or 95 e36 325i that some old bloke had serviced more than he ever drove. They tanks you can beat people with limiters and you can drive at like 200 miles and hour easy for hours. Just make sure you keep using the right oil.
A late 80s E30 with a manual Getrag (260?) gearbox. With nothing but normal oil changes and basic, routine maintenance it will run forever. The late E28s were equally good.
N52 is a great motor, never had problems with mine, 233000+ KM on my E90 330i. The magnesium block is all about weight, it is the lightest 6 pot engine block ever made in the world. One time use bolts are so, so they don't come loose, pity about gaskets though as we all know beemers like to leak oil. The only job that I went to a BMW indy to do was the oil sump gasket because I couldn't be bothered dropping the subframe (I've done this only the one time so far and still no leaks).
Enjoy your insight and opinion But the N52B won best engine design I believe I'm not a fan of electric water pump or plastic valve cover or intake but it's an easy engine to work on and in the E86 runs strong
E39 525iT wagon , automatic. Currently replacing rear main seal, transmission completely(reverse disappeared - had clutch teeth broke), bushings up front, leaks a bit of coolant. Already done rear air suspension. Coil pack is a pain for sure(currently on a junkyard set after bavauto failed). 170k miles, second owner, California car...
@@clearcutpro Wow, ok. I installed mine about 3 years/10,000 miles ago and now have a misfire every once in a while. I hadn't thought to check the coil packs yet though. Thanks!
You never speak on the E63, maybe because its basically a 2 door E60? & I can speak directly to your last comment, i got my M6 in October, very, very well kept up, ceramic coated paint, 135k its been my daily while im working on my E30 and its been pretty problem free, few minor discoveries , with that said though I will continue to baby it as much as possible.
2002 E39 2.2 Sport manual 99k, I'll stick with that. Would love M5 E39 and could run one, I just don't want the hassle. Same with the E60, I'd love one but can't mentally afford the unreliability. Keep up the good work though Nathan, you do help us keep these cars alive!
I own a 335i (n54) DCT 2009. No problems at all, but only on 50k miles yet. Looking at the pas the M43 and M44 were the best engines. But probably because they were low Hp engines. I wonder if US BMW's do have the same engine parts comparing to the European BMW's. The n54 in Europe is a very reliable car, if well maintained. And the (Mitsubishi) turbo's are done at about 120k miles, but there are plenty of better options to replace these for better ones. I drove a 1993 325i vert (M50) for 17 years and it didn't let me down ever. The only engine problems I had; a VANOS overhaul, 2 valve cover gaskets, a Radiator, 2 water pumps (and thermostats), and a camshaft sensor. That's all. So to me, the M50 is a very reliable 6 cylinder. Stay safe, Dutch regards, Nico.
Is it the coil pack or the rubber boot? If you see the bottom of the rubber on the coil pack you will see white. That’s arcing, causing a misfire. So is it the rubber or coil???????
Good video! My experience... E39 540i m sport 6speed 183k southern car. Timing chains at 166k by pervious owner. Great car I really enjoy it. No big problems at all. My most costly repair is the liquid cooled alternator. Alot of tech for a 2003. Other car is an 1988 e30 325i flordia car with 211k. Just had the head off because fluids mixing. Putting some miles on it now and I'm enjoying. Very old car and will always need work but parts aren't too bad and it really not that hard to work on. I wouldn't buy a convertible again but I paid dirt for a very clean car to swap eventually. E30 s are fun and cool but they are a little bit hyped up. I dont think I would wanna long term own anything much newer due to cost and poor quality. I like the e46 and e39. Bmws are made for the wealthy. Meaning they don't need to last all that long. Because people don't often keep them very long. You have to know how to fix these cars to own them at lower cost. Bmw has allways been about pushing tech and not having money left over for quality parts.
There isn't a bmw that doesn't eat money, If you dont neglect things and stay on top. There designed this way. Every bmw has the same thing in common. They all have problems at 80k to 100k miles and on
Don’t forget the not-so-wonderful PCV oil consumption problems on the M54s... I finally fixed/slowed it down by running full time vacuum to the CCV on our 03 E39. Makes taking the oil fill cap a real bitch while running tho - full vacuum at the cap all the tie.
Look, I'm saying the E34 525i is probably the most reliable car, basic, built well and the engine and drive train goes forever. I've had 3 of them, bought them with about 80k and put over 300k on each. Unfortunately, they're getting old in the tooth and hard to find in good condition. You didn't really put a limit on the model years.
M35B35 for sure. I’ve got an M62 3.5l currently (pre-vanos). It’s been a smooth engine, but the upper oil pan by far was the worst repair I’ve ever done. Had to drop the subframe to fish it out and replace the seal. Absolute nightmare!
First, I love your channel and your presentation!! I have a small concern, I recently bought a 2011 335xi with 118k miles. The car really had no issues/codes over the 2k miles of my ownership. It has the service records since it was new. During pre purchase inspection at a BMW indy shop they told me the car was solid. I asked them if they could do the rod bearings as a preventative measure. They told me not to worry about it and this car shouldnt require the rod bearing replaced. However, everytime I drive the car, Im just stressed and worried that something will go wrong at any moment. How bad really is the rod bearing issue? Mine was manufactured 07/11, its a LCI M-Sport model. Thank you!!
M50 @200k and N20 @50k running strong. The N20 in the 2 series chassis is an underrated platform. I do wonder how long the rod bearings will last in this little 2L turbo compared to the N55.
Hello Nathan, I have a 97 528i that has been sitting since 2015. It has the 2,8l with 200k and most of the usual stuff you know about these e 39's. What do you think I can get for it.being a parts car that's complete? I just didn't want to junk it.
I love this guy. Just a regular guy who knows a ton about BMW *through experience* and is gracious enough to enjoy sharing all that knowledge with the world. This guy is the salt of the earth.
Very well put. E39 here and actually happy with it.
My family had BMWs since the late 1960s. When I bought a 1997 E39 528i it was a good car until things started to break at 100k. The M52B28 was great, the manual transmission was great, the whole driveline, suspension, and brakes were great, but the electronics was horrible. So now I drive a 1991 BMW E30 318i 4 door with a manual transmission. It's great
E30s with routine maintenance are almost indestructible.
M50 m52 m52tu m54 can’t really go wrong IMO. don’t make a ton of power but reliable and fairly easy to work on
E46 M54 crew, represent! 🎉 Love my 325xi Touring. Has 225k+ miles, and literally had Factory Original Russian-made Bosch spark plugs in it when I purchased months back. Thing is a beast, and I'm prepared to spend a fortune making it run perfectly again. 😓
M62TU with 130000 miles. Still strong pulls like train no issues. Just done oil change, dropped the lower oil pan to check for any pieces of guides or shavings. All clean as new so replaced the gasket. Thinking to do the same every oil change just to be sure. When watching Nathan’s videos even thinking to do the guides with the next oil change as bit worried. So far so good happy with the car.
I’m not pissed off. You gave your opinion and I respect your blood sweat hard work getting that M5 up to like new condition I respect your skills
N52 E90 just hit 330000
To be Ones I stick with my E39 until I die.
my e60 n52k is at 187000. Everything maintained my me. I never go to the stealership. recently replaced all my transmission solenoids. now car shifts even more better 🙏🏼🤙really reliable to me
I've got E60 530i with N53, with some 190k km. I'm still satisfied with it, very difficult to think what could replace it. F06 with N57, maybe, but yearly tax for cars with diesel engine in here is insane (unless you drive a lot). I'm kind of looking forward to what kind of EV's BMW comes up but not holding my breath.
E60 m54 bought from a kid 217,000 miles, before he let the coolant leak out from Jerry rigging a coolant hose.
I replaced with 72,000 mile engine. Driven 10,000 miles since and love the car.
Dropped down the transmission mectronics unit and replaced the rubber seals. Shifts much better, but I think a solenoid is going out, cause shifts really late after heavy acceleration
IT'S NOT COMMONLY KNOWN or N51 smog hungry states, but because it's so much lower emissions it dose not strain the motor. Mine 2010 328i E92 m sport 3.0 L naturally aspirated and runs very well. So far no real problem after 10 years. Only change the plugs, oil, fluids. Tires& Battery one time so far. Ya great car. BUT you must do the maintenance by the book and as I said it's been very good to me. Now with 106.000 miles and still runs and drives like its still new. But also I'm an engineer, do my own stuff have 2 dedicated computer's to the BMW and well no real problems so far. Hopefully, and when, I will take care of it. Alway's have. THANKS NATHAN. LIKE YOU CAR COLLECTION !!
1st I have a 2012 128i (convertible) with a N52. I avoided the N51 for 2 specific reasons. Minor, some of the electronic bits are different and can be difficult to source. Major, (according to the internet experts?!?). To get the horsepower up on the N51 they use the DISA system from EU N52's to make up for lower horsepower from the smog detune. The plastic dampers in the manifold to improve intake velocity's can/will break and get sucked into cylinders 2, 3 and 4. Which grenades the engine. According to the internet experts! 63 year old Chen Eng been doing MINOR wrenching since 1975, Ford Torino, Chevy Camaro (convertible), Jeep CJ5 (convertible), Buick Skyhawk, Chrysler LeBaron GTS (convertible), 96 BMW 328 (convertible). Lots of other new cars during the last 40 plus years (2006 Pontiac Solstice convertible) that wife and I had dealer work only.
Finally someone agrees! Preventative maintenance and doing the work yourself is key, 3 cross country trips and never left me stranded.
E60 M5
Sounds like Nathan has lost his freaking mind. No disrespect great video
I had a M54-480,000km ran like new (synthetic oil change every 5k). Had N52N-395,000km ran like new. Sold both of these because I wanted something newer (I was bored of those two cars) I now still own N52-227,000km runs new, N52N-420,000km engine runs again like new. I now change oil every 7k. That’s about 5 thousand miles. That’s the key. Very Very reliable. Then again I sometimes fix something like a crank sensor and I think it’s no big deal, I don’t even remember what that sensor cost, maybe 50 bucks. Someone ELSE would go to the dealer and that would be $500 and they would say that the cars junk lol
damned I had a friend who gave his old M54 engine because it was parked for quite a while I was compelled to spend like $5K for parts labor to replace those hoses/ tubes, coollant tank, crankcase Valve cold climate, probably will change the EGR Valve as well. Hope it can survived that long it's has 195K miles already. Currently it's running right now, after a few months of just staying in the parking area... I am thinking of doing 5K change oil as well.
E39 and E46 as well as E60 M5 and love them all each will have its issues every now and then but key is fixing them yourself
I like his nonchalant bluntness and good attitude and deep knowledge immediately available.
In Europe we mostly use diesel BMWs and they are really really reliable and trusty cars even very high mileage
if they will not take fire yes very reliable...
Well not N47 engines
@@mavainfigatomareva My car is N47 2008 320D and it’s currently has 280.000km original engine original timing chain🙂 the secret is with oil change
@@Winter1256 sure, but most people running that engine don't do that kind of maintnance and end up with broken timing chains, injectors, fuel pump and so on... It's a very efficient engine though
The M57 is the most reliable diesel engine from BMW. N57/n47 has timing issues. M47 is not bad.
I could agree for some reasons, also arguable, but it’s all about how it was done from factory to be maintained with preventative maintenance that only owner is responsible for after it’s sold to first owner as well. So I agree that v10 e60 has less factory problems that wasn’t solved unlike the cars that got in to mass production and to fix issues they had to do a few recalls until “facelift” model was released. Just my opinion. ✅👍🏼
E39 M52 non TU ftw
this comment was posted by iron block gang
Same here!
@@ikeirvine7850 Actually my M52 has an aluminum engine block:D
We europeans got the alloy engine block much earlier than the us.
An M52 with an iron block of course is even more durable.
I've owned two N52 E60s and now an E60 M5, and you're absolutely right.
My e39 540i has 313k miles it’s been pretty good for me
The Nikasil snafu ruined the reputation of the M60 but I had great luck with it. I retired my '95 540i with a hair under 300k. The transmission too ... the 5hp30 is a massive beast that had some teething problems, but with regular maintenance mine performed well for the life of the car. The Dinan TCU chip really woke it up, too. Of course, all that hardware is pretty ancient at this point.
So overall what is the most reliable for 2021?
My m54 is at 390,000 at of July 2021. 15k oil changes. Yes I have changed coil packs, and a few things, but has been great.
Wrong.... b58
it is too early to tell😅
Suggest putting some images of the models you are describing would make the video better. :)
Aside from N20s built before 2/15, the F30 (3-series) has to be among the top in terms of reliability.
Agree on this. N26 on my F36 GC and it’s going strong at 80k. Coils and plugs at 60k and Liqui Moly every 7500 miles is the only maintenance done
Mid 2015 n20 with 50k and no problems of any kind. Change oil every 5k, probably more often than necessary. Good daily driver. When I crave more performance, I enjoy my e93 n54. Also been a great car.
Who leaked this video before April Fools
E60 owner with an N54 here...I'm all in for $8000 (bought car for $2400, fixed it for $5600 and upgraded a bunch of stuff). Has upgraded turbos and all of the boltons ready to go for 600 horsepower, but after the first drive, the Mosfets failed lol
M54 on E39 is the's the most reliable engine to me. You won't need to fix any rod bearings like the E60. If I had those skills like Nathan then I might and also the shop lift is critical
30d M57
M54, I swear to god, 380K and it runs like it's new.
My M54 is at 308k
Ask Mr. N how many E60 M5 of his choice will ever see that kind of milage and still on the road...M54 was the mist reliable somehow modern engine ever made by BMW.
my 2002 E39 with M54 and manual trans was very well cared for by original owner and is now, at 20 years old and with 180k miles, it’s still like a new car. Everything works, runs perfect. All i had to do was replace the original radiator this year. I’m so lucky to have found one so nice.
It's ok to piss people off Nathan the N54 loves money and time but it is very rewarding and are not that bad to work on, The motor has a very strong bottom end. The problems are all the components attached to the motor that are made of plastic, I.E. water pump, thermostat, valve cover, pcv etc. The real positive aspect of the N54 is that they can be very easily tuned to make over 500 hp and gap the M3 with a v8. Fun fact the N54 with over boost makes 379 ft. lbs. of torque at 2000 rpm vs e90 M3 v8 only makes 299! ft. lbs. of torque at 6500 rpms
120k on my S52 and so far all the things that failed are the alternator, starter, SAP, coolant level sensor and charcoal canister solenoid. I put in a Stewart water pump because why not? Original water pump still works. Just got to address the leaks from the oil pan, oil filter housing and power steering. I did the valve cover gasket so there's that too.
Epileptic Rage... hahahahaha... i just KNEW.. we'd have at least one Nathanism.. needed that laugh. I agree with the whole vid. But no-surprise right haha.. Good stuff.
umm, Your buddy Dr Dean said 2 months ago N52's are the best current units. Buy them while you still can, says Dr Dean!
@John Doe Just because somebody yells and repeats themselves over and over..... Just checked Webster's, never mind.
@John Doe Uh oh! Dr Dean live steaming $h1T about Nathan
@@pauljennings3572 Thanks for the the edit. I thought I was missing a pun. And I didn't want to troll.
I would love to add a second N52 car to the collection.
Keep them coming brother.
This whole video I’m staring at you and the 2002 😂 In the background
If Im not mistaken its a 1602 🤔
M57 a good engine
Shoot m52 is best in my opinion. I got 1997 328is i love it
Great content. This has become my favorite BMW channel 👍. I just purchased a 2010 e90 N52 328i for my kid. Solid car after I fixed all the typical oil leaks, put new water pump/thermostat/radiator, new coils/spark plugs and belts. I also have a 2006 e46 M3 and I never see you addressing this car and the S54 engine. I wonder why? You went from e36 S52 to e9x S65… but never ever mention the S54?
I was surprised.
Hearing this I may go look at some E90/92 M cars. Plus I love that v8.
Sun driving my 528i now for 3 years.. I drove it for ten before him... Now over 400.000k and still going strong but it needs some care..he does not do anything on it... I own a 2003 530i wagon and that one drives even better over 240.000 k and I maintain it myself hope to reach over 500.000... My favorite engine m54
You’re totally wrong on the N52
I agree, N52s are good engines. I think Nathan had bad experience with his blue E90.
N52 is finest engine of the bmw engine line up !
@@isarkisov I agree
@@b.k.s8910 I’ll agree with ya.
I own a M54, N52, N55 and S55. The N52 is my least finicky, easiest to wrench on, cheapest to maintain (FCP Euro prices) and least worrisome. Just sayin.
@@wjohnsonism fcp euro makes these cars so easy to maintain
The correct question for this video title is “What is the E90 with the N52 Engine?”
Interesting take on this Would never expect the S85 to come out on top if I ever get one I’d go with a manual for sure! would like to see you talk about M52 M50 M44/42 S62 and S54 too see what you have to say about those although they are getting a bit older in age
I got 200k miles out of the factory waterpump on my E53. Pretty reliable car as long as if you ask me.
Me too wtf 🧐
M44 4 cylinders last forever. So many of them go above 300k miles
exactly bulletproof but not very refined , although the cooling system is terrible when it gets old
Very good engine. Replace the rear coolant pipe at the cylinder head every 3-4 years.
@@stuartbear922 the coolant pipe lasts every 150k. Doesn’t have to be every 4 years- that’s an overkill. I just overhauled mine 2 years ago and it had most of the original cooling system (since 1997) parts except the water pump.
An E34 M50b25
Bmw e39....GREATEST BMW OF ALL TIME ‼️
E60 Bmw 550i m package best one I think
Same here. N62 has been great so far 🤞🤞
@@PLABOI83 my 550 I has 230k still pulls real hard I have a Honda Accord with 350k on it
"M3 is a small car, it's ok if you like that" I have a Z4 LoL
My N52 is extremely reliable ... it is now in its 15th year and the only things that needed fixing are the gaskets (which aren't lifetime components anyhow) and new spark plugs. I do all the regular servicing with BMW specialists who only use BMW parts and fluid specifications.
You seem very tired. Great video! Picking up a E39 530i next week.
I have overheated my M52tu several times and it is fine. Absolutely fine. I had purchased a car in the fall and our first cold snap I got frozen coolant and it overheated several times on the way to the warm shop where I can drain it. Prior to that, the person I purchased it from, stated it overheated many times in the summer as well. It was a dead cooling fan. So it had overheated lots before I owned it. Solid machine. I honestly think the best series of engine they made was the M5x engines.
Personal favourite is the M50NV for reliability. You just don’t get the issues with the Vanos and the DISA like the M54/52tu and parts are everywhere and super cheap.
The M20 was also fantastic and frankly overbuilt for its purpose.
My M62tu is great other than the Vanos and timing guides for sure. The oil separator being behind the timing cover on the Sedan version is kinda stupid.. the external one on the e53 is better in my opinion. But I think BMW can’t make a V engine quite like they do an inline.
Honourable mention deserved for the M57 diesel. I think if you were to delete the EGR and Emissions controls it would be a solid reliable engine for a long time. And it’s a torque monster, gets awesome mileage.
Either way, gone are the days of the big heavy iron blocks and back yard mechanic friendly BMWs.
Glad to hear about the S65, been thinking of buying an e90 M3. Had e60 M5, totally destroyed it in an accident, but I planned to keep it forever.
How did you wreck It?
I have 2004 X5 E53 350.000km
I guess it has M54 under the hood right?
@@bwalyabwalya2796 E53 3l v6
@@slawomirczajkowski9481 the engine type?it comes with different engine types though most are 6 cylinders, but the early models had an M54 engine (6 cylinder)
He has it backwards! 😆 rod bearings is just the beginning on those, frequent Vanos failures are also common and a ton of other small issues, forum pages get 46 long about issues with this car and how expensive it is to fix. The N52 is by far the THE BEST! overall BMW motor, especially because of the magnesium/aluminum composite. My 06 328i has almost 200K has not seen a dealer yet and outside of the plastic parts that need to be replaced: water pump, therm, valve cover, oil pan, vanos rebuilt kit... this car is best for overall driving with plenty of power. I get 36mpg in steady hwy driving.
No Vanos rebuild kit for the n52 as far as I know, Vanos solenoids , Vanos units themselves, magnesium valve cover has cam ledge seal issues and lifter issues , all updated in 2008 , starter failures are BAD on the n52, all hoses , timing slipping etc
Better to be pissed off than pissed on! lmfao. Good overview on the engine lineup.
My e36 316i manufactured in 1994 312k km on it when when i bought it the speedo meter isn’t working so I don’t know the actual km on it. Very reliable with auto transmission
Thanks a lot, for your info! Very good info for BMW engines!
My only concern is that the old engines that are good are still old cars.
My X5 with the M57 diesel is amazing
Not sure if you’ll spend as much on 6 cylinder car compared to e60 m5, given that many non-M BMWs are nearly practically free. E90 328i definitely will require less money than e90 m3 simply because 328i costs pretty much nothing. I do agree that e90 m3 is a good purchase, I myself should have gotten one instead of some supercharged v6 4 ring car.
N52 will never die! It’s a living, breathing, beast!
@@cyborgjoe1000 I just love the N52. It’s such a simple design but can be powerful.
@H H Idk. lol I just like the N52. S85 S65 are cool too but those designs seem overly complex, The N52 is outlandish in concept with the eccentric shaft but very simply built you know? Just my opinion though.
@@NatureandSpirit111 eccentric shaft sensor failed at 107,000 miles on mine
@@mo9488 but the N52 lives! It lives to rev again another day!
Makes me feel better after I’ve put all the money into my M5 to make sure it lasts. Thank you Nathan. (E60 M5 bought at 92k, At 106k now, did bearings at 93k, fuel filter, injectors, vanos line, cleaned vanos solenoids, motor mounts, and replaced everything possible on my Smg when i did clutch) I’m sure I’m missing a couple things - Zac
Updated a year later at 118k. Car runs strong, some. I did have an Smg issue between then and now but car is 100% worth
N52
Interesting viewpoint. Most people won't agree with you, but it is interesting to hear a very different viewpoint.
A 94 or 95 e36 325i that some old bloke had serviced more than he ever drove. They tanks you can beat people with limiters and you can drive at like 200 miles and hour easy for hours. Just make sure you keep using the right oil.
A late 80s E30 with a manual Getrag (260?) gearbox. With nothing but normal oil changes and basic, routine maintenance it will run forever. The late E28s were equally good.
N52 is a great motor, never had problems with mine, 233000+ KM on my E90 330i. The magnesium block is all about weight, it is the lightest 6 pot engine block ever made in the world. One time use bolts are so, so they don't come loose, pity about gaskets though as we all know beemers like to leak oil. The only job that I went to a BMW indy to do was the oil sump gasket because I couldn't be bothered dropping the subframe (I've done this only the one time so far and still no leaks).
Enjoy your insight and opinion
But the N52B won best engine design I believe
I'm not a fan of electric water pump or plastic valve cover or intake but it's an easy engine to work on and in the E86 runs strong
E39 525iT wagon , automatic. Currently replacing rear main seal, transmission completely(reverse disappeared - had clutch teeth broke), bushings up front, leaks a bit of coolant. Already done rear air suspension. Coil pack is a pain for sure(currently on a junkyard set after bavauto failed). 170k miles, second owner, California car...
How many miles did those BavAuto coil packs last you?
@@bassibimmers6226 approximately 4000 miles, trip to Texas and back and shortly after - misfire
@@clearcutpro Wow, ok. I installed mine about 3 years/10,000 miles ago and now have a misfire every once in a while. I hadn't thought to check the coil packs yet though. Thanks!
E34 m50b25 strong 😉💪💪
What’s that the 535i? If so. All I can say is “bullet proof.” Buddy of mine had one. Never changed the oil. 😂😂😂😂 Never blew up either.
@@ahill3736 e34 525i
We had an e34 525i manual, it made it to 200k before the clutch gave out. Sold it cheap. Would like another e34 with an m54b30 swapped in.
You never speak on the E63, maybe because its basically a 2 door E60? & I can speak directly to your last comment, i got my M6 in October, very, very well kept up, ceramic coated paint, 135k its been my daily while im working on my E30 and its been pretty problem free, few minor discoveries , with that said though I will continue to baby it as much as possible.
2002 E39 2.2 Sport manual 99k, I'll stick with that. Would love M5 E39 and could run one, I just don't want the hassle. Same with the E60, I'd love one but can't mentally afford the unreliability.
Keep up the good work though Nathan, you do help us keep these cars alive!
The e60 with the m54 is a good combination. Own one and it's a daily.
E39 540i is the best bmw and the last one
Nice vid!
M30 B35 the strongest BMW engine ever! 🔥 It can go 1mil km no problem!
I have the M54 E39 here. Happy with mine.
Is the E60 really more reliable than a F10?
Hell no
Ofcourse with n52 engine natural aspirated engine will be reliable. Turbo engines are never reliable.
I own a 335i (n54) DCT 2009. No problems at all, but only on 50k miles yet. Looking at the pas the M43 and M44 were the best engines. But probably because they were low Hp engines. I wonder if US BMW's do have the same engine parts comparing to the European BMW's. The n54 in Europe is a very reliable car, if well maintained. And the (Mitsubishi) turbo's are done at about 120k miles, but there are plenty of better options to replace these for better ones.
I drove a 1993 325i vert (M50) for 17 years and it didn't let me down ever. The only engine problems I had; a VANOS overhaul, 2 valve cover gaskets, a Radiator, 2 water pumps (and thermostats), and a camshaft sensor. That's all. So to me, the M50 is a very reliable 6 cylinder. Stay safe, Dutch regards, Nico.
Is it the coil pack or the rubber boot? If you see the bottom of the rubber on the coil pack you will see white. That’s arcing, causing a misfire. So is it the rubber or coil???????
N52 💙💙💙💙
Good video! My experience... E39 540i m sport 6speed 183k southern car. Timing chains at 166k by pervious owner. Great car I really enjoy it. No big problems at all. My most costly repair is the liquid cooled alternator. Alot of tech for a 2003. Other car is an 1988 e30 325i flordia car with 211k. Just had the head off because fluids mixing. Putting some miles on it now and I'm enjoying. Very old car and will always need work but parts aren't too bad and it really not that hard to work on. I wouldn't buy a convertible again but I paid dirt for a very clean car to swap eventually. E30 s are fun and cool but they are a little bit hyped up. I dont think I would wanna long term own anything much newer due to cost and poor quality. I like the e46 and e39. Bmws are made for the wealthy. Meaning they don't need to last all that long. Because people don't often keep them very long. You have to know how to fix these cars to own them at lower cost. Bmw has allways been about pushing tech and not having money left over for quality parts.
There isn't a bmw that doesn't eat money, If you dont neglect things and stay on top. There designed this way. Every bmw has the same thing in common. They all have problems at 80k to 100k miles and on
Right now e36s cost the price of a set of tires. It's drinking sweet
Don’t forget the not-so-wonderful PCV oil consumption problems on the M54s... I finally fixed/slowed it down by running full time vacuum to the CCV on our 03 E39. Makes taking the oil fill cap a real bitch while running tho - full vacuum at the cap all the tie.
Look, I'm saying the E34 525i is probably the most reliable car, basic, built well and the engine and drive train goes forever. I've had 3 of them, bought them with about 80k and put over 300k on each. Unfortunately, they're getting old in the tooth and hard to find in good condition. You didn't really put a limit on the model years.
M35B35 for sure. I’ve got an M62 3.5l currently (pre-vanos). It’s been a smooth engine, but the upper oil pan by far was the worst repair I’ve ever done. Had to drop the subframe to fish it out and replace the seal. Absolute nightmare!
N47TU rules
N52 of course !!! The most reliable Bmw motor ever !!!
I've just changed all the belt tensioner pulleys on my M54 E46 72000 miles
Lol wondering Do u still have that M54
@@raywright998 Yeah. Still got it. 74000 miles now.
Nathan how about the M62 engine.
he did mention the m62. Timing chains fail, vanos problems and valve cover gasket problems.
Hey whats with the diesels? N/M 47, N/M 57?
From what I heard, they dont have them in US.
First, I love your channel and your presentation!! I have a small concern, I recently bought a 2011 335xi with 118k miles. The car really had no issues/codes over the 2k miles of my ownership. It has the service records since it was new. During pre purchase inspection at a BMW indy shop they told me the car was solid. I asked them if they could do the rod bearings as a preventative measure. They told me not to worry about it and this car shouldnt require the rod bearing replaced. However, everytime I drive the car, Im just stressed and worried that something will go wrong at any moment. How bad really is the rod bearing issue? Mine was manufactured 07/11, its a LCI M-Sport model. Thank you!!
Wow m5 is notorious for being least reliable. But I work on my own and I have liked cars being say are no good
You are my god, i worship you
E39 m62 (1997) doing all top end. Will I be disappointed?
M50 @200k and N20 @50k running strong. The N20 in the 2 series chassis is an underrated platform. I do wonder how long the rod bearings will last in this little 2L turbo compared to the N55.
Hello Nathan, I have a 97 528i that has been sitting since 2015. It has the 2,8l with 200k and most of the usual stuff you know about these e 39's. What do you think I can get for it.being a parts car that's complete? I just didn't want to junk it.
What about s62 e39 m5?
he approved that engine