How reliable are modern BMW diesels?

[TopCat]

was toying with the idea of getting a nearly new 5 series touring diesel as a daily to replace my much loved MGZT-T which I have owned from new with BMW diesel with a serious remap when 2 years old- now with 92k miles and going strong.

But have heard alarming stories of timing belts breaking and broken gearboxes.

Does anyone have an inside track on this?

The issue might have more to do with the amazing blue black paint the guys have just painted my CJ Jeep in 416 carbon black and when I spotted a 520d tourer in same colour I was getting seduced!!

My guys say that the MG is going so well there is no need to change- there are plenty of things requiring cash to fix right now!

[Mobster]

Ok, have a lot of experience but too much to write. PM me your number and i will call you.

in the mean time, watch this

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p01bbfsl

[TopCat]

thx - will do
if anyone knows BMWs it must be you (with 14?)

[TopCat]

Ok, have a lot of experience but too much to write. PM me your number and i will call you.

in the mean time, watch this

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p01bbfsl

This programme lays bear the problem!Worth watching by anyone thinking of getting a modern diesel!

[healeyneil]

My last modern BMW was an E39 530D. Biggest problem was an expensive thirst for injectors

[TopCat]

MG ZTand Rover 75 Forum is VERY forthcoming on this issue!!

I posted same question there:

see below

http://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/forum/s ... p?t=167577

[polov8]

My last modern BMW was an E39 530D. Biggest problem was an expensive thirst for injectors

I too had an E39 530d, the only issue I had in 20,000 miles was a failed lift pump, other than that it was fine.

As for the above issue, so far as I'm aware this problem only applies to the 4 cyl diesel. Man up and get a 3.0!

[bumface3]

I got a 330d m sport auto for my hack about.....had it mapped...its an auto but i had it mapped by someone recommended and who knows these gm built boxes limits.

Blanked the flaps....its a great car with so much torque...500nm or 360lbs ft.

Now the 335d remapped would be nice.....

[e21Keith]

Have a look on eBay at the number of 4-cylinder BMW diesels being sold with failed engines, it's frightening. The 6-cylinder cars are way more reliable, I have an e46 330d sport, manual with a 270bhp remap, it's done 198k miles on the original turbo, only mechanical failure was the clutch at 140k. It still has the flaps fitted, looked them a couple of months ago, they are like new, no sign of them working lose as the ends of the screws on the flaps have been peened over,
Oh, the autos can be a bit unreliable and the newer the car the more complicated and less reliable the electrics too.