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I don't have the magazine with me now. But Yes, I believe that it is the April issue of Automobile Magazine. I am a subscriber and just received it in the mail a few days ago. I think they are up to 20,000 + miles now. Like you, I am also leasing to late 2008. The noise is quite loud, and as you know, at least embarassing if not dangerous. Couldn't be normal, but might not be the major problem I fear it is. I'll report back when I know more.
Regards,
David
I've heard a few folks opine that the N52 is NOT the engine in the 335i and that BMW reverted to the M54 for the blown version. So far at least, I've never seen anything an any BMW press release or other credible documentation that suggests that the 335i and 535i are getting anything less than the full magnesium/aluminum composite engine. Personally I tend to believe that it is in fact the N52 that gets the blower treatment as that block is reputed to be WAY stronger and more rigid than the old sleeved M54.
Best Regards,
Shipo
but, I know the new turbo motor does not have the magnesium block...
You'll just have to trust me... :surprise:
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Regardless of the answer, I hope to obtain definitive information that will put this to rest in my own head. ;-)
Best Reards,
Shipo
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_N54
I'll go and shut up now. ;-)
Best Regards,
Shipo
Then I saw in the garage where I park my car at work. It was an '06 325i with an Automatic, Premium Package, and 20" Chrome Wheels, Chrome trim around the headlights, tail lights, and Chrome Door Handles. To top it off, the beautiful blue & white roundel on the trunk was covered by a Puerto Rican Flag! Oddly enough, the guy told me it rides much better with the 20" wheels & tires than it did with the stock 16s and run flat tires.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
http://www.autozine.org/html/BMW/3er.html#335
My take on it is that the N54 engine (although new) is basically the N52 engine but stripping away the magnesium block:
"the magnesium outer crankcase is replaced by a conventional aluminum block with cast iron liners"
N54 without turbo generates the same output as the N52 engine. And because they had to add aluminum and cast iron due to the turbo chargers running a bit "hotter" then conventional non-turbo engine; it added on an extra 28kg but the performance out weights the weight increase ratio by way far.
So basically my thought was correct, same engine but with different part, then slap on the turbo equals N54.
Hmmm, I'm thinking that I'm very much unconvinced on that one. It just doesn't make any sense to try and use the composite manufacturing techniques of the N52 to do an aluminum/aluminum marriage of the two components. No sense at all. Then there is the whole bore and stroke issue, consider the following:
Year-Model -- Bore -- Stroke -- Engine
2005-330i ----- 3.31 --- 3.53 ------ M54
2006-330i ----- 3.35 --- 3.46 ------ N52
2007-335i ----- 3.31 --- 3.53 ------ N54
Definitive? No. That said, the M54 block was specifically designed as an all aluminum structure with cast iron liners, cobbling together an aluminum outer shell to be fitted over an aluminum inner structure which is then bored out to allow cast iron liners to be pressed in seems like a fancy mousetrap that didn't need to get invented. My guess is that the N54 is comprised of the well proven M54 block (or a new block built upon M54 manufacturing techniques) with the fancy new three-stage N52 cylinder head fitted to it.
That's my story, and I'm sticking to it. Errr, until one of y'all prove me wrong that is. ;-)
Best Regards,
Shipo
Does anyone know the what changes were made to "de-tune" the N52B30 from the 2006 330i to the 2007 328i?
Regards,
OW
The 328i is just the old 325i engine, with some intake enhancements...
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It's a good thing we didn't buy. I wouldn't want a 4 thou bill after 4 years, that's for sure. And it sounds like my dealer would try to stall me off until then, and dump the expense on me.
Regards
Eddie
For some, certainly. For some ( including me, most emphatically ) not so much.
I enjoy trundling along in my torque monster as well as ‘other’ modes.
The manual 6 speed 335i tested in R&T was turning 2,200 RPM at 60 MPH in top gear. ( I believe the 6 speed automatic is geared much the same – at least so far as highway RPM. )
My 2007 Corvette, with 6 speed automatic, at 60 MPH in top gear is turning approx. 1,300 RPM. And will pull any throttle opening up to WOT quite comfortably, should I feel lazy and \ or traffic conditions only allow gradual acceleration – and I choose not to downshift. Of course the LS2 ( 6.0L V8 ) is also quite happy to ‘scream’ past 80 in second gear. I love having choices.
And I did test drive an early 335i Coupe with 6 speed automatic, as one of my primary criticisms of the BMW 3 Series in the past has been relatively low Torque – before I ordered my Corvette. What I’d describe as generally ‘good’ acceleration performance, but not great, and excellent ( real world ) MPG. But the addition of the TT 335i motor now offers stirring acceleration, from most any RPM, and significantly improved MY enjoyment of the 3. Other issues kept me prom choosing the 335i, but in this respect the enhanced outright maximum acceleration, combined with the added flexibility of the motor I see as a major improvement.
But there is no substitute in my mind for the combination of free a very revving motor that also is quite happy to ‘trundle’. When the mood or the traffic suggests that is appropriate . . .
[ Now ‘trundle’ is a word you don’t hear every day. ]
YMMV.
- Ray
Very happy with Great Steaming Piles of Torque . . .
Regards,
OW
“rayainsw, did you consider/test the Z06? Why did't you choose the 335?”
Well, I’ll try not to take much BMW bandwidth, but I’ll try to answer your questions, briefly:
Z06. No, I did not consider it. 3 of my reasons:
A – No automatic trans. available – a dealbreaker for me, with severe bursitis in my left foot.
B – No significant discounts available from a ( much higher ) MSRP.
C – I don’t happen to like the styling difference, compared to a ‘regular’ C6.
Some of the reasons I did not choose a 335i:
A – That much TQ, but no LSD??? Even as an option? Very odd choice.
B – The Corvette with six speed automatic is quicker than the 335i with 6 speed Steptronic.
[[The 2 335i published tests I happen to have seen peg the 335i manual trans. Quarter Mile at approx. 13.5 – 13.6.
The Corvette C6 w/A6 trans. tests I have seen = 13. flat or just under.
( GM says 12.9 at 110. )
The C6 w/manual & Z51 = mid-12s.
Meaning only that the C6 is rather noticeably quicker. ]]
C – Though I am certain that BMW rightly trusts the TT motor to run at those much higher revs without incident, I have an ( irrational, but very strong ) preference for the feeling of effortlessness I sense when I can cruise at high ( but legal ) velocity at very low RPM.
D - Though the throttle response of the 335i in my testing was good, the throttle response of the LS2 in the Corvette is noticeably better – particularly in the lower RPM ranges.
E – The BMW paddle shift operation for the Steptronic happens to be the reverse of what makes sense to me & what I have now driven for something like 30,000 miles.
F - No Head Up Display available. Again, even as an option? Odd choice. BMW has a HUD available on some models – why not here?
G - GM’s move to a 5 year \ 100,000 mile drivetrain warrantee impressed me . . .
Again, I want to emphasize that I respect the BMW 3 – and specifically the 335 – but I decided that if spending this much cash, this time I would buy a world class GT car ( the current Corvette, in my opinion ) rather than a BMW 335 Coupe or Sedan. And I certainly do not mean to say or imply that the 335i is really meant as a Corvette competitor. The Corvette is ( for example ) lighter, has no back seat, etc.
Just my opinions . . .
- Ray
Very Happy Corvette Driver . . .
Regards,
OW
I'm going to do a little interpolation here. The N52 engine in the 325i has a single stage intake system; hence the intake runners are tuned for sort of a "Jack of all trades, master of none" kind of method of feeding the engine. The N52 engine in the 330i has a three stage intake system; each stage is effectively a "Jack of few trades, master of one".
So, going out on a limb here, I'm going to suggest that BMW returned to a two stage intake system like they had on the M54 series of engines for the new N52 engined 328i.
Anybody out there know anything more specific?
Best Regards,
Shipo
Ding! Ding! Ding! Dual stage intake it is.
Though one interview i read suggested that a substantial portion of it was software..
As for the reason for having a 328 instead of merely a 330, BMW needs a bottom-end model around that proce point. In theory, they could lower the 330i to that price point, but that would:
a) upset people who paid for the high-end 330i last year
and
b) destroy residuals, hurting both buyers who might trade for another BMW and bmw's own leasing company.
At least, you have to say that BMW has a conscious to make their past customers "feel good" about their old ride. Pretty cool, IMO.
But I still wonder what that does to the new guy!
Regards,
OW
Blue,
Yes, but is it the worst in the ELLPS group? I believe not.
Bottom line, cars are a depreciating necessity. It is what it is. Buy or better yet, lease (if it makes sense) what gives you some joy and let not the value stress you.
In your case, I admire you because you always seek the best drive that fits your heart's desire (at the best value for you) and you also help a lot of others get value as well.
Now it's time to check out the x-drive in this St. Patty's Day Blast we are getting here in the Northeast!
"Mush, You Huskies!"
Regards,
OW
It is the April issue of Automobile Magazine. Pages 115 - 120. Entitled "Did engine problems damp our enthusiasm for the 2006 Automobile of the Year?" Their tester car now as 23,353 miles.
One person said "The 330i could blow up every 20,000 miles and I'd still like it better than most other pretend-to-be-sport sedans."
Regards,
David
We'll see what happens David. Maybe a ground swell of complaints from owners will help. But based on the dealer's initial reaction, I don't trust BMW anymore.
I'll stay in touch with any developments.
Regards
Eddie
I'll let you know what my dealer has to say. My appointment is on March 28.
One thing's for sure. If they used our cars for prospective customers to test drive, with the engine making a loud ticking noise which they claim to be normal, hardly anyone would buy or lease one.
This is my first BMW, by the way. I have nothing to compare it to except a bunch of Japanese cars. I came out of an Infiniti G35. Never had any problems with the Japanese makes. I'll see how my 3 years go with BMW. Love the drive, but if my car proves to spend too much time in the shop, I may go back to the G and save $$$ per month.
Strange as it may seem, my next leasing decision may be colored by what they give me for a loaner car while my car may sit in their service center for a few weeks. If they give me a 335 as requested, it's all good for me. Miles off my leased 330 and I'm getting the best test you could ask for in the car I might get next. :shades: But if they give me a SUV, then I'll be pissed. Don't like the ride. Don't like the gas mileage. I'll be pestering them every day to expedite the work on my car. :sick:
David
Just like the RFT issue, BMW corp. finally got around to a service bulletin to fix the complaint but it will undoubtedly cost them repeat business.
If you can, explore the Lemon Law if this option is available to you and make sure you keep good records. Keep staying in their face on this and do not accept anything but complete satisfaction.
Just my 2 cents. I will be thinking about your problem and trust there is complete resolution for you.
Regards,
OW
Eddie
2nd problem in 1 year. Good grief.
When are you letting the car go? I assume you are ship-shaping it up for the new lessee.
Regards,
OW
Hope the new owner has fun with the E90.
Regards,
OW
Regards,
OW
Congrats on the "S", my 13 year old son wants me to get one too. Let us know how it is making the difficult transition back to FWD. :-/
Best Regards,
Shipo
By Neil G. Chirico
2006 BMW 330i
Total mileage: 17,285
Unresolved problem areas: None
Maintenance cost: $0 (service included)
Normal-wear cost: $6 (one quart synthetic oil)
"There I was motoring along (sorry, Mini) when the rain began to fall. At the freeway entrance, a line of vehicles ahead of me slammed on their brakes. I dynamited the brakes on the 330i, ABS goes into action, and I stopped 1.6 microns away from the car in front of me.
The driver of a 1995 Infiniti G20 behind me, however, wasn't able to do the same and slammed into the rear of our BMW. The 330i's rear bumper cover now looks likea badger has chewed it to pieces."
Luckily for us, the BMW is fine and entirely driveable, not so lucky for the G20, though.
Regards,
OW
However, I hated the ergonomics of the front seat door arm rests and the controls on it. Whoever designed must have arms of chimpanzee or orangutan. Also, the headrests were sticking out just far enough to make it uncomfortable as my head was resting at an unnatural angle. Otherwise, rest of the seat was very comfortable.
It also had iDrive and while it wasn't difficult to use it, it just did not seem very intuitive. It certainly was distracting but not as bad as some have put it. Runflats were also not bad, but then again I wasn't expecting much from non-sports pkg. car. The ride itself was comfortable and bit softer than the M5.
If I had to replace the M5 today, I think 335i would fit the bill nicely.
I saw a slightly used 2006 325i for sale at the dealership -- shod in new Conti RFTs. Made me wonder about its history.
Speaking of different personalities, I feel that I already own two cars -- one with winter rubber, the other with summer. I like the 17" asymmetrical setup -- the balance is just right and transforms the car to what it should be. The LM-22s were good in ice and freezing rain, though.
I have a 06 S and have enjoyed it throughly with numerous trips to the track and auto-x. However, I find myself wanting a larger sporty car and the E90 328 is high on my list. Why did you unload your almost new 330?
I came from an 03 330i Performance Package car and I dearly miss the sound and feel of that car. Everything about it was more geared toward fun and sensory driving pleasure. Letting it go was a big, big mistake.
The 07 Cooper S acts as a stopgap for me. I still have the feel of a BMW but it's smaller, louder, more raw, lighter and overall makes me feel like I'm in a car that presents a balance between some luxury and some power/handling. I only expect to have it two years, maybe three - and the car's exceptional resale plays a major role in my decision too. Eventually, I expect to be back in a BMW when we start a family and at that time BMW will hopefully have a ZHP (performance) package for the 335i.
I was in awe of the original Cooper S in its Monte days of glory. I'm sure the car will be a lot of tossable fun. I still like my E90. Cars are a subjective, irrational business.
Timo Makinen's 1965 Monte winner -- '64 Cooper S
Is it true.and has someone else experienced the same?please help
Also does anyone have problems with the auto climate control...mine can't keep the car cool unless I switch it to manual and leave the setting at 60 degrees. Had a 2007 loaner that was the same way...and it was only 90 here.
By the way my car also had the peeling door pulls, the steering column had to be replaced when steering lock failed, low coolant light ( was low a quart...never had a car lose coolant but was told this is normal), window rolled down and never came up and the clearcoat on the paint is eaten away by bird droppings in under 8 hours....I have to take any off the same day and still leaves a dull mark behind. Oh yeah and I did get a flat and once I reset the tire pressure monitor it never told me the tire was flat...I had to rely on a tire gauge....dealer said that the systems are fussy about being reset....nice....Am I the only one?
Can't really comment on the auto -- mine's a manual and my experience with the auto is brief. Make the dealer go for a drive with you and then sit with you in one of their cars for comparison. Don't let them off the hook.
You might consider window tint and a textured dash pad. Is your car's exterior or interior a dark color? Also hurts AC.
I presume you vent the car first before driving, and then switch to "recirc" if you are manual operation? I can't recall on your model if you can leave the fresh air vent open, but that will considerably decrease your AC efficiency.