Multiple Twin Turbo failures the norm on the 2009/2010 535XI model?
 

Hello all,

Need your help before going any further with a potential purchase of a 2009 535XI. I found BMW I am interested in, a 2009 535XI with 60K, very good condition cosmetic wise. The seller had two turbos just replaced recently under CPO warranty. Is it a good thing he had the twin turbos replaced? Are they prone to fail a second time? I plan to buy a Route 66 extended warranty that covers me for 5 years or until the odometer reached 100k mark but still would like to know if once twin turbos require replacement, it is the start of many trips to the shop?

The turbos are a known problem in the N54 engine. They will get the dreaded turbo rattle and fail eventually--typically under WOT. Just had mine replaced at 94K miles. the newer ones have a slightly better design so should not fail as quickly. I would not worry too much. also most of the time it is the rear turbo that starts to go out--a 9 hour job at a dealer, and to replace the front one is only an additional 3 hours (But later to do the front is 12 hours total) thus most folks have the front one replaced as well.

Good luck with the extended warranty--many have found that they do not pay out when you need it.

^^^^Thank you funglenn. I appreciate your input.

As an aside, i really love my 2009 XI. I installed a COBB tune and love the extra power. I had the car up to 158 MPH a few days ago and the car felt like it had more, i just did not feel safe--there was a turn coming up. (The COBB tune removes the limiter, which I believe tops it out at 135 or so)

Can't do that here in USA. Good luck finding a company to insure your car if you get convicted for driving @158MPH. You being in Germany, I guess you have the opportunity to test the limit of your XI.

I've been close to that myself here in the US :twoup:

Looking at this warranty service receipt below, is it possible to tell if both were replaced. Since it was replaced just a month or so ago, I shouldn't worry about a second failure.

Thank you funglenn. Much appreciated!