There are several sources for the BMW DISA valve that will save you some money. Fcpeuro, Bavauto, Pelican Parts etc.

Once the DISA valve starts making noise one shouldn't take the risk of running the engine.

Yeah, I found OEM online for a far more reasonable price, but I cant use the wife's car for the next few days, so off to the dealer.

And I agree- Can't take the chance and really find myself screwed.

I appreciate everyone's input- Thanks!

It took all of 5 minutes to remove the faulty DISA, and install the new oem unit. Started it up, and all is quiet. Not what I wanted to spend $400 bucks on, but there it is.

Good call. Still better than $4K for an engine...

Get an aftermarket unit that is made o aluminum and uses a bolt instead of a pin so it is impossible that it fails. Putting another OEM in there is just asking for eventual failure. Again. Put something in that will not fail.