the 4.4

[hpy540]

is the 4.4 the worst combination for engine in the e53?

[Spanker]

If one is mechanically inclined and knows the known issues with 4.4i, I would say it is one of the best. It's smooth and powerful.
Plus, I love the twin exhaust exit look. Issues I know with it are, the plastic timing chain guides breaking, rattling Vanos, Valley Pan Gasket leak, Valve Cover Oil Leaks, and Crankcase venting Issues.

[dannyzabolotny]

Depends which 4.4 you're thinking of. The M62tu has its flaws for sure, but the good thing is that once you take care of the common stuff (chain guides, Vanos, CCV/OSV, valley pan), it's a very robust engine that starts every time, doesn't consume oil, and delivers smooth power.

My 2003 X5 4.6is has the M62tu but in the slightly bigger 4.6 size. After I rebuilt the chain guides/Vanos/OSV/CCV/valley pan, it runs like clockwork. And that's with almost 215k miles on it!

Now the N62 engine has its own issues and is far more complex thanks to the valvetronic and quad-vanos... I don't even want to imagine working on that engine.

[smokeyyank]

Originally Posted by hpy540

is the 4.4 the worst combination for engine in the e53?

Depends, what you want to classify as the worst.

Power wise, no 6 banger would be, but does come with a manual.

Maintenance wise, N62 would probably take the win on that.

M62 overall is super solid but needs PM work to keep it running. Most times people forgo doing so and it just adds to problems.

[Spanker]

Do you turn your own wrenches? I think that is a must for a E-53 with high mileage nowadays. BMW will with-hold using grease after they bend you over...

[Quicksilver]

Compared to what other combination???

Originally Posted by hpy540

is the 4.4 the worst combination for engine in the e53?

[hpy540]

Just wondering about mechanical problems. I have had M62, rolled that 1. Set mom up with a m62tu. I have 2 s62. Just dont know the mechanical failings of N62.

[itsbrokeagain]

N62s have valvetronic issues from time to time, crappy cold start idles, and tend to eat valveguides in under 100k miles. We used to just change the stem seals at the dealer because the customer didnt want to plunk down for the heads to come off and send them to the machine shop.

Would usually cure the smoking issues for a few thousand miles and it would come back again.

[hpy540]

Originally Posted by itsbrokeagain

N62s have valvetronic issues from time to time, crappy cold start idles, and tend to eat valveguides in under 100k miles. We used to just change the stem seals at the dealer because the customer didnt want to plunk down for the heads to come off and send them to the machine shop.

Would usually cure the smoking issues for a few thousand miles aend it would come back again.

Thanx. This seems to run pretty good. A little stumble fist start in th AM. 187k on it. Random multiple missfire. I have to change plugs and boots. Maybe valve cover gaskets as well. Can you get me maintanace history on this e53? All work done @:dealer.