With the fluid/filter change @ 150k miles, you're due for another change. Only other suggestion I would make is have the adaptation reset to changed all values.

Yea, most people believe the finishes hold up on our cars with just a little TLC. Shame the mechanical side doesn't hold up as well without quite a bit of proactive care and PM.

 

My wife keeps telling me to get rid of by 06 550i but I love driving it too much.

 

I have an 08 550i which I've had for 4 years and love. I just turned 110K miles and showing signs of the infamous leaking valve seals. The small import shop which I use to service my car said if I really want to keep the car for a while he suggests pulling the engine, addressing all the 'known' issues such as valley pan, water pipe, all the gaskets incl. the oil pan and timing cover set along with machining the heads. Said he has about 12 of these under his belt and warranties a job of this size for 24 months. Has anyone else machined the heads when doing the valve seals? Wasn't sure if it is recommended or only as needed.

 

There is a cheaper way to replace the valve stem seals-- All German Auto has a tool that enables a mechanic to replace without removing the motor, etc. Many mechanics around the US have the tool. Just FYI.

By the way, I sold my 550i to a collage student who loves it! (I miss it). I purchased a CPO 2014 535i. Love it so far. (Looked hard at a MB E350 but concluded that it is not nearly the car the 5 series is.

Happy Motoring!

 

Psam, what did you do for valve seals? Indy mechanic? DIY? Approximate cost?

At this point, I'd say hold on to it. Cars with 200k and up tend to have diminished value, regardless of condition, because of there perception that things must be wrong or must go wrong soon. Obviously something will eventually go wrong on all cars, but your car seems to be in good shape. It could be hard to sell your car at a premium price on the market, even though you've had the major things taken care of. I suspect all the "bad" 550s out there are bringing down all the prices.

 

And silly me, just realized you've already sold it haha.

 

Thanks psam550! I checked out that tool and it is very interesting. Do you or anyone else have any experience using that tool to change the valve seals? I get it can save dollars but wondering if changing all the other gaskets are wise if I want to get another 100K out of this 550i.
thanks!