I know I had an N54, but after just selling it I don’t think I would own one out of warranty again. Even just something stupid like a waterpump will cost you $500+ just in parts. Mine was pretty reliable but I did only put about 5,000 miles on it during my ownership.
i owned a n54 335i and it was a solid machine. Aside from the typical bs, water pump, injectors and wastegate rattle. I eventually went full retard and added a fftec single turbo top mount. I say it was more reliable then with 2x the hp than stock. N54 is a DIY ownership car. If you can do the work yourself it’s no different than say other cars. Just parts prices are a little higher.
Agreed I bought mine bone stock with 47k and been tuned on e85 pushing around mid 400s without any issues
Thanks! Lots of good information here :tup:
the key like everyone else said is the time and know how to be able to fix most things yourself. its tough to find the performance of a N54 car for the cost. Just be ready to spend for parts when something breaks. Keeping up on maintenance is key too. 15k miles on 07 335xi in the last year with just a thermostat go bad. problem is the part is $80 and 5 hours of my time to change it.
If $500 in parts is a problem you shouldn’t be looking at german cars. LOL
X…
It’s not. My point was that, compared to all the other waterpumps I’ve replaced on other cars ($100 or less), $500 was quite a bit.
I believe when mine went it was 480 in parts. That’s waterpump, thermostat and the aluminum bolts. If you have access to a lift and have all the proper tools, can be done in 2 hours.
i have owned my 335 for over a year and i have had no problems. I bought the car with 59k it now has 84k on it. All i have replaced were the spark plugs and tires. The 335 can be reliable, just dont neglect it. My next upgrades are the JB4 and some exhaust work. Maintenance wise, i am going to redo the plugs decarbon the intake, trans flush and oil change this summer. I have not had a HPFP or water pump issue yet…but i am waiting for that day to come.