M54 Thermostats- Current Recommendations?

[ChiefRider]

Will be replacing my recently replaced thermostat. I would typically go OEM, but see many advertised that are actually housed in aluminum vs. the plastic.

I am suspect of the quality of virtually every replacement part these days, is there any current thinking on suppliers and quality, or trying one of the aluminum housed units?

As always, thanks!

[80stech]

I think most of the better name aftermarket stats are fine. I don't think there is any need for an aluminum housing. OEM doesn't really mean much, OE is original equipment.

[wpoll]

Dunno what it's like with the M54 thermostat but the only way to go for the M57 is OE (or as close as you can get, i.e. verified OEM supplier). They last ~10 years, where-as some aftermarket brands have been documented as lasting a year or less!

[80stech]

Sounds like the M54 purge valve, OE or going to be trouble!

[g300d]

IIRC when I did mine many years ago on the X5 M54, I used a Wahler.

What are you seeing for sale now?

[cn90]

I have used Wahler for yrs.
It is the original supplier.

A few yrs ago, it was $50 for Wahler.
It is now $72, thanks to Tariffs!