2009 535xdrive - maintenance decision

[Lucian009]

Hi guys -

I'm at 142k and I already put some money into the car. I'm coming to the point of needing to replace the valve cover gasket (about $1200) and possibly the oil pan gasket too ($2200). Possibly the front struts also, down the road (I hear some slight clonk on front left when going over bumps).

Hard time deciding if to continue investing here. Water pump was replaced, AT was serviced, and I know about the possible fuel pump issue. But would there be other major things that are likely to need addressing on this car before 200k that you guys can think of?

Thanks!

[maxcbrdriver]

At those prices, it's hard to justify unless you're keeping it for a while. Are those indy prices or dealership? The valve cover gasket i would try myself. The oil pan on an x drive is more work since the subframe has to come out in addition to front axles.

[Lucian009]

Those are dealer prices, but I find that the "european" garages around charge just as much or more, while they claim lower hourly fees.

I wish I could find a passionate mechanic who I can give all this work to for a reasonable price, but everyone seems to be both lazy and sloppy nowadays (and greedy too).

I might have to bite the bullet and get the valve cover gasket replaced. I don't have the time and facility to do it myself.

[mweine]

Originally Posted by Lucian009

Those are dealer prices, but I find that the "european" garages around charge just as much or more, while they claim lower hourly fees.

I wish I could find a passionate mechanic who I can give all this work to for a reasonable price, but everyone seems to be both lazy and sloppy nowadays (and greedy too).

I might have to bite the bullet and get the valve cover gasket replaced. I don't have the time and facility to do it myself.

I often find good prices for BMW parts in eBay