PPI on a 12’ X5M

[GTBrandon]

Looking at picking up an 2012 X5M with a little over 80k miles on it. Has recalls done already but wanting to know what to check for with a PPI. Hopefully the Indy shop already knows but, want to make my own list as well.

Any help is appreciated for common failure points on these motors!

[zoom750]

The biggest worry, I think, would be the valve stem seals leaking. Other issues would be leaking coolant lines (the y-connector in the "V" of the engine and the turbo coolant lines running on top), leaky expansion tank, and rear air bags. Also, check that the battery is in good condition and the partitions in the engine bay are intact. While you're at it, also make sure that the auxiliary coolant pump (that cools the turbos after the engine is shut) runs, otherwise the turbos could become damaged. Good luck.

[Dave00]

Originally Posted by zoom750

The biggest worry, I think, would be the valve stem seals leaking. Other issues would be leaking coolant lines (the y-connector in the "V" of the engine and the turbo coolant lines running on top), leaky expansion tank, and rear air bags. Also, check that the battery is in good condition and the partitions in the engine bay are intact. While you're at it, also make sure that the auxiliary coolant pump (that cools the turbos after the engine is shut) runs, otherwise the turbos could become damaged. Good luck.

Valve Seals is not a common issue on the S63, however the N63 is a whole other story. The others are on point and also make sure to check that you have the updated index 12 injectors as there's a SB for those and a common failure point as well. Also check the typical BMW failure parts in the cooling system, as with everything being plastic you'll want to check the hoses, lines and expansion tank.

[Poppyboy]

A PPI will generally not be able to provide such internal details as types of injectors, leaky valve seals, etc. Those kinds of details/repairs are normally ascertained with the prior owners’ paperwork. Most, but not all leaking/cracked lines should be easy to ID. The PPI is just one (but very important) part of the overall decisioning, in addition to service history docs, Carfax, etc.

[X5 MAN]

PPI is only as good as the 'idiot' who does it.

Usually they just glance around for leaks and the wear and tear of consumables .

When you buy a car worth 100k new for 20-25k, you are just gambling with your luck.

You might as well invest that money in stock market or poker .

[Thecastle]

Originally Posted by Dave00

Valve Seals is not a common issue on the S63, however the N63 is a whole other story. The others are on point and also make sure to check that you have the updated index 12 injectors as there's a SB for those and a common failure point as well. Also check the typical BMW failure parts in the cooling system, as with everything being plastic you'll want to check the hoses, lines and expansion tank.

Yes! There are a lot of people who think the S63 and N63 have the same problems. Valve stem seals are not common on the s63, there may have been 2 or 3 reported cases. Fairly rare compared to the inline 6 and other old v8s

Plastic hoses especially the filtered air ducts and pcv lines go to crap.

Rear main seal common issue, I’ve had 2x replaced on mine. Oil pan leak, valve cover leaks common.

Expansion tanks go, engine partition, electric turbo coolant pump.

All fairly common on the M.

Less but still common injectors (were recalled).

[Jon_G]

Originally Posted by zoom750

The biggest worry, I think, would be the valve stem seals leaking. Other issues would be leaking coolant lines (the y-connector in the "V" of the engine and the turbo coolant lines running on top), leaky expansion tank, and rear air bags. Also, check that the battery is in good condition and the partitions in the engine bay are intact. While you're at it, also make sure that the auxiliary coolant pump (that cools the turbos after the engine is shut) runs, otherwise the turbos could become damaged. Good luck.

I almost positive the auxiliary coolant pump for the turbos has a recall out on it. Fire issue.