2004 BMW 325i problems

JOHNBOY

MEMBER
2004 BMW 325I
6 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
73,000 MILES

2004 BMW 325i

I am having a small problem with my 2004 325i, I seem to have a oil leak but can't see where it might be coming from. I noticed it last year when I had parked it and it was still running, it smells like it is dripping onto my exhaust manifold. Also it sounds like there might be a slight lifter tick! Are any of these problems I am having common. I don't want to take it to a shop if I don't have to.

1 Reply

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

The oil leak is typically the valve cover gasket, it is not at all unusual for them to do so, replacement is called for, and at your descretion of course, but it will never go away until you do replace it. The lifter noise might go away with an oil change and it is not at all uncommon for them to be a little noisy, more of an irritant than a real problem at this time. My recommendation is to shop the price and how long the repairing facility will warranty the repair, automotive repair is competitive these days and some shops offer 2 years of parts/labor. You may wish to have the VCG replaced sooner than later as it could be a safety issue as well as an ecological issue.