Howdy folks,
I rarely post here, but read often and that's helped to stay sane and keep my 04 530i (manual) running..

I am coming up on 130k miles.. I got the car with 40k, and the last 90k have been about 95% highway (commute once a week 200 miles each way and park it).

I did all the belts, hoses, plugs, and filters (and do them within their normal spec) last year. I see a fair amount of posts about water pump and fans...

Should I proactively replace the water pump?

What's the longest anyone has gone on an original clutch? Like I said, original at 130k, but no signs of slippage or weirdness. I'm kinda leaning towards waiting for the clutch to slip once, then replace... never know if its got 50k more miles on it..

Shocks? Any relays or motors that will fail soon?

Basically, I want to get the stuff that could leave me stranded - most of my driving is thru SE Ohio and WV where A) no shops no cell service 3) obviously no dealer for emergency parts and fixit...

thanks for any advice,

Mike

 

water pump is easy to check just shake vent

 

My 01 330i manual is 180k miles and still running on original clutch. I think you will be fine for now if you don't feel any slippage.

 

I would (did), along with the pulley and thermostat. But that's just me. I did mine at 96K.

 

^ +1. Water pump is one of the most critical components.

 

+1. Its been on my DIY list for a while too.

How to replace Water pump and thermostat E60 - 535 xi - Bimmerfest - BMW Forums

 

definetly do water pump with the mileage.
clutch will give you signs of slippage before leaving you stranded.

 

Water pump for sure.. Looks DIY enough. Ordering tmrw...

Thanks for the info so far, guys...

-Mike

 

535i != 530i. that DIY thread is not applicable to OP's car; engines are super duper different.

 

It is. Search for DIY threads for E46 or E39 cars. The only difference is you won't need a fan clutch tool, E60 has an electric fan. when you go to slide it up out of the way, the mount pin on the driver's side is hinged. fold it back 90* to get enough clearance to pull it completely out (you'll see what I'm talking about when you get there)

good luck with your project.