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2010 2011 BMW 5 Series Forum F10 F10 Technical Topics Engine, Transmission, Exhaust, Drivetrain, ECU Software Modifications Hey all, switching from an e90 to an F10
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      05-18-2018, 01:42 AM   #1
ColoradoCale
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Hey all, switching from an e90 to an F10

I found a clean looking 2012 528i xdrive under market price with 100k on it that I'm looking at picking up this weekend so I can have a reliable DD for living in Colorado.

After doing some digging, it looks like the N20 can have timing chain issues with pre-2015 models, is there an easy way to check if it has a stretched chain/had the service to change it done? The dealer said he had it inspected at the oil change 100 mi ago and said it was fine/tight/no stretching or wear marks. Not sure if it is a vocal minority or a widespread issue affecting all the models using the N20 (have one 17+ year master mechanic say avoid it, another with the same experience say they've only seen one ever with the problem.) Will call Schomp BMW to see if I can get any info on it since that's where the last dealer service was. Would it be worth it for an extended service contract? Quoted at $3600 for a comprehensive 12month/12000 contract through USAA.

Anything else I need to look out for? I have the Full iCarly Pro with Bluetooth reader that I'll be using to check it out after the test drive.

The dealer is holding it for me to make the 70mi drive out to check it out on Saturday. If it checks out I'll be taking it home. I'd like to throw on a Racechip GTS or GTS-Black for a nice even powerband bump, a high flow catted downpipe, and replace the plastic charge pipes then call it good on the N20.

If not, I'll probably look at getting a boosted Volvo XC60/70 in the same year range since it fits my price point and expected capability/comfort + some options for piggybacks.

Looking it up through BMW NA there aren't any service recalls on it. Was thinking about doing a DMV VIN public records search but it can take up to 3 weeks for results.

Thanks for your input!

PS, let me know if crossposting is frowned upon, I have the same post in the technical section since I figured it would be better to get exposure to both those more technically inclined and a wider audience that has dealt with these issues.

Last edited by ColoradoCale; 05-19-2018 at 06:43 PM..
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      05-25-2018, 10:31 PM   #2
Dirty3092
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Is your heart dead set on a 528i ? I chose the 535i over the 550i and the 528i for the power and reliability of the N55. My car is a 2013 bought it 3 years ago through a bunch of performance parts at it and only manitence I’ve done on the car is a battery and a PCV hose. My car is extremely low miles but I’ve beaten it everyday since I bought it. So 3 years and 8,000 miles with me is probably a lifetime for any normal no abusive owner lol.

On a side note I’ve had a few 528i for rentals and I felt like it wasn’t enough power for such a big car.
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      05-30-2018, 04:52 PM   #3
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it's risky. I would not take the chance. a clear sign that the timing chain guides are about to fail is a whining sound from the engine that is consistent with RPM. I would strongly suggest going for a 535i like the poster above me mentioned.
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      05-30-2018, 05:55 PM   #4
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If you get a 528 get one that has had timing chain changed already
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      06-01-2018, 05:17 PM   #5
Shieldze1025
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I'd imagine you'd be disappointed with the power. I came from a 335i to a 535i and I don't think I could imagine it being any slower. The weight difference is noticeable from an E90.

For the minor price difference on a used one, go for the N55.
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