I've noticed an oil that has popped up and jsut the other day I cleaned it well and then two days later it's back to this again. I have found a few threads that show the seal repalcement for the oil filter housing but I am not sure if this is the same thing or not, it looks like it is though.

 

Additional Pics

 

Assuming the oil filter cap is tight, it does look like oil filter housing gasket is leaking.

 

Yesterday I checked the cap and it did turn just a very small amount. I don't think it was enough to say this is the problem though.

 

Who did the last oil change?

You mentioned that the filter was further tightened which could indicate that it wasn't tightened enough to start. If it continues to leak, apply more torque but it doesn't take a lot of strength to properly tighten.

Do you own a torque wrench? Check the correct torque and see where your install matches. If the torque wrench "clicks" immediately after you try to tighten (provided you set it correctly) then its not a torque issue, but probably an o-ring problem.

The new oil filter "O" ring should be pre-oiled before installing so that it glides into position.

The "O" ring needs to be properly positioned on the oil filter housing, there is a ringed notch for its placement. This notch should be free of debris across its entire circumference. Clean it out with an old toothbrush if necessary, then wipe clean using a clean rag, or even a paper towel formed to fit into the o-ring notch.

Who made the oil filter that was installed? I recommend only Mahle, Hengst, Mann or Bosch. Stay away from the SLIGHTLY cheaper Korean and other Asian stuff.

 

That's a common issue with the oil filter housing. Mine had started leaking and had the housing gasket, cooler gasket, and oil line o rings. Haven't had a problem since.

 

I plan to clean it up today a see if that small turn help any. Otherwise I guess I'll be looking into getting these gaskets replaced. It seems to be getting worse...

 

fixed mine recently.. go to bmw buy an oil filter the o ring comes with it.. i would just change the oil at the time if your about do..

 

I know it is common on the M54 motor to have the oil filter housing gasket leak over time, I have never heard of it in the N55 motors though. Interesting, you would think BMW had revised the design for better longevity.

 

Have had this same problem. Slow pooling of oil in the same place. The problem was a messed up (crimped) o-ring gasket that goes on the oil filter cap. As someone else recommends, get a new filter from BMW and take the cap off and replace the o-ring.