Genuine BMW BMW Engine Parts for BMW 5 Series E60 (2004-2010)

• All-in-one valve cover overhaul
• Preventative replacement saves time and trouble later on
• Includes new oil separator system
• Replace valve cover gaskets before a leak becomes worse
• Replace valve cover before it cracks

For the 2007 model year BMW switched to a plastic valve cover on the N51 and N52 engines. As we have seen over time the plastic can crack which leads to oil leaks, vacuum leaks, poor running, and other issues. Unfortunately, it's not just the gasket that needs periodic replacement but the entire valve cover itself. This kit includes a new valve cover, gaskets, eccentric shaft seal, and hardware. The valve cover also incorporates the oil separator which is not a replaceable item on its own. So a complete valve cover replacement will tackle multiple problem areas at once. The valve cover is the same for N51 SULEV and N52 engines.

Cracked Valve Cover. The plastic used for the N52 valve cover is thin and weak in certain spots. This makes it prone to hairline or larger cracks that will leak oil and cause vacuum leaks. You might also notice rough running, especially at idle. Often a technician will go looking for a failed ignition coil, spark plug, or failed vacuum hose on the engine. And without a fault code to assist in diagnosis this can often mean wasted time and money. A cracked valve cover is a new problem area that many techs don't think to check.

Oil Separator/Crankcase Vent. BMW integrated the oil separator system into the valve cover on these later engines. An internal manifold creates a cyclone effect and centrifugal force separates vapor from the liquid oil. The liquid oil is supposed to drain through the valve cover and back to the oil pan while the remaining vapor is burned up during combustion. It's a very efficient and environmentally-friendly design with very few moving parts. Unfortunately it's not perfect and eventually the internal passageways will become clogged. This problem is made worse in cars that have short drive cycles, sit for long periods of time, do not have frequent oil changes, do not see regular runs to redline, and cars in freezing climates. If the engine never reaches optimal operating temp the oil remains in liquid form or becomes sludge. This is bad news for the entire engine, leading to fouled spark plugs, rough running and misfires and even premature failure of catalytic converters and oxygen sensors. Since the oil separator system in the valve cover is not available on its own, and cleaning it is nearly impossible, the complete replacement of the valve cover is the only option. Other oil vent tubes and vacuum hoses are also recommended to get replaced at the same time.

Valve Cover Gaskets. As with any rubber part, failures occur when the rubber becomes dry and brittle. The pliable rubber no longer forms a seal between the cylinder head and valve cover where it will develop an oil leak. Valve cover gaskets that leak can allow oil to seep into the spark plug holes and contaminate ignition coil boots and plugs. That can lead to rough running and misfires. A new valve cover includes new gaskets.

Eccentric Shaft Seal. The seal for the eccentric shaft sensor is a known spot for oil leaks. When the seal to the valve cover fails oil can end up in the sensor itself and ruin the sensor (an unecessary $300 expense). Usually a new seal (o-ring) will stop the leaks but sometimes the valve cover is at fault too. A new eccentric shaft seal is included.

All new hardware is included to avoid re-using and over-tightening the original bolts (they have a very low torque rating).

Replacement requires accessing the rear of the engine with a lot of the upper plastic shrouding removed. The vent hose on the valve cover should be replaced as it is almost always broken anyway (#11157559528). The metal fuel line must also be removed and disconnected from the fuel injectors. Professional installation is encouraged if you have never done this kind of work before. Serious DIY types should have a Bentley Service Manual to use which greatly explains the process. You may also want to combine this work with the oil filter housing gasket replacement.

There is no maintenance or replacement interval for the N52 valve cover. However, we have seen cracks and other failures in the 50,000-90,000 mile range. Our best advice is to plan on a major top end overhaul around the 70-80,000 mile mark. There's no mechanical downside to replacing it as prevention and it will make the engine run better and last longer.

This item fits the following BMWs:
2008-2012 E82 BMW 128i
2007-2011 E90 BMW 328i 328xi 328i xDrive - Sedan
2007-2012 E91 BMW 328i 328xi 328i xDrive - Wagon
2007-2013 E92 BMW 328i 328xi 328i xDrive - Coupe
2007-2013 E93 BMW 328i - Convertible
2008-2010 E60 BMW 528i 528xi 528i xDrive
2011 F10 BMW 528i
2007-2010 E83 BMW X3 3.0i X3 3.0si
2007-2008 E70 BMW X5 3.0si
2007-2008 E85 BMW Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si
2009-2010 Z4 BMW Z4 sDrive30i

Poor idle, low fuel efficiency, and engine misfire codes are all symptoms of worn spark plugs. Replace yours with quality factory direct parts to get your engine running as well as possible.

These plugs from BMW are the solution for all of these problems. Over the years, the electrode wears away on spark plugs, causing too large of a gap and weak spark. Additionally, excess carbon can build up and bridge the gap to negatively effect performance. Replace yours with these factory correct units to regain your power, fuel efficiency, and smooth a poor idle.

If you are replacing any aspect of your ignition system, it's best to replace all serviceable components. By doing so, your ignition system will work in better harmony, freeing up hidden horsepower and raising fuel economy. Skim the ECS Tuning ignition area under your model for spark plugs, wires, coil packs and more to get your vehicle into top shape.

Don't neglect your motor mounts! Most stock BMW motor mounts are fluid filled and the stiffness of the mount depends on this fluid. But over time the fluid leaks out and the strength of the mount is greatly reduced. A worn motor mount allows the engine to twist and shift around. The harder you're driving the more shift will occur. As the engine is moving around it can contact other parts in the engine bay - usually cooling related. The mechanical fan can hit the radiator; the A/C compressor can hit a radiator hose, the exhaust will flex and may break. Twisting of the engine can also lead to shifting problems as the transmission twists with it. There are countless issues related to worn or compressed motor mounts so don't overlook these as a regular replacement item (every 50,000 miles).

As a leading source of high performance BMW parts and accessories since 1993, we at Turner Motorsport are honored to be the go-to supplier for tens of thousands of enthusiasts the world over. With over two decades of parts, service, and racing experience under our belt, we provide only quality performance and replacement parts.  All of our performance parts are those we would (and do!) install and run on our own cars, as well as replacement parts that are Genuine BMW or from OEM manufacturers. We only offer parts we know you can trust to perform!

This item fits the following BMWs:
E60 BMW 5 Series - 525i 528i 530i 535i