160,000, a measure of affection, and a modicum of borrowed time.

[Uneripty]

Greetings, everyone.

I want to create this article in the hope that someone can guide me appropriately. I am nearing 160,000 miles on my 420d, and I am uncertain about my current status.

I like my vehicle; it is perhaps the finest and most pleasurable automobile I have had. Over the last two years, I have changed many components, either due to their age or exceeding their expected lifespan, and I am likely now operating on borrowed time. This is not necessarily an impediment for me; I am appreciating the overall maintenance and acquiring substantial knowledge in the process. She certainly keeps me alert, positively.

I understand that many may react with shock when I admit my little knowledge of prior history, making it difficult to ascertain what issues have been addressed before. Is it inconceivable to reach 160,000 miles without a clutch replacement? I enquire since I believe that is my current situation.

I just had a comprehensive service at a reputed facility (not BMW) and paid for a 'gold' service to ensure a thorough inspection. The assessment I received was quite favourable, save for the need for two new rear tires and alignment. Considering I had tracking performed in April of this year, there is nothing more to convey—primarily a printout of checks; even manual notation was unnecessary, as she seemed rejuvenated in every regard. Nonetheless, I enquired about it, and he assured me there was no cause for significant concern.

I am cognisant of some aspects that may be somewhat borderline or fall within the spectrum; yet, they overlooked all of these, leading me to doubt the veracity of their assessments.

Additionally, there is a little judder while entering first gear, which prompted me to do a comprehensive inspection to elucidate any issues. Nonetheless, I am quite uncertain about the next steps to take. Is it a straightforward, unequivocal new clutch installation? Or should other factors be considered initially? I have examined many aspects to consider initially, including clutch burn, the removal of clutch delay, and the replacement or cleaning of the intake manifold. Uncertain about the extent of their connection, but I presume they are related.

Any advice to provide, considering the aforementioned context, would be welcomed. Thank you for your attention.

[Nekomp]

It may indeed represent the initial clutch of highway miles and related factors.
Is there any rattling or noise while just engaging and disengaging the clutch?
Enquiring whether the dual-mass flywheel may need replacement alongside the clutch.

[Uneripty]

Based on the MOT history, it seems that this vehicle has mostly been used for highway travel. I do a singular excursion, around 230 miles weekly, along the A12. I am certain that there have been other occasions, particularly when the children are not in school, when I have completed the whole distance, maybe using the clutch just once or twice. I use great caution with it to avoid causing any disturbances.

Nonetheless, the clutch and gears in this vehicle are exquisite; I can really assert that I have never encountered any unusual noises or problems whilst shifting.
To provide additional context, I observed a minor judder during my last mini service approximately one year ago. After changing the oil and filter, the judder completely dissipated, which astonished me; the car's performance became exceptionally smooth, contrasting with the previous slight resistance I had experienced. Recently, after 7,500 miles, I repeated the oil change, yielding identical results—everything feels remarkably smooth once more. It appears that the vehicle benefits from regular oil changes, so I intend to shorten the intervals between these services.

Nonetheless, the little judder, while slight and contingent upon precise clutch modulation, is there this time—more so than before when it was entirely absent. I can assert with certainty that all aspects related to the clutch and gears operate seamlessly.

[Squirrrel]

At 160,000 miles, if the clutch is changed, also replace the timing chain.
When replacing chains at that mileage, I usually recommend that the clutch and flywheel be replaced simultaneously, since there is no additional labour expense; just the cost of materials is incurred as they must be removed to reach the chain.

At 160,000 miles, I believe you are operating on borrowed time with the chain.

[Uneripty]

Thank you. What is your anticipated expenditure for the required work? I will not be going to BMW, as I do not fit the criteria. Considering all factors and my situation, I will go for a location that will do the task competently.

Concerning the chain, I hope that the regular oil change will mitigate issues; but, if replacement becomes necessary, it may influence my decision to retain the vehicle or convey this information to a prospective buyer. This encapsulates my uncertainty over my position, the extent of commitment required, and the financial investment necessary at this juncture.

I have seen several components that may need replacement at this mileage. Where should one begin if everything now seems to be functioning adequately?

I am cautiously optimistic, however I see the need of more frequent maintenance, prioritising what is most essential relative to expense.

[Squirrrel]

Estimating, the cost for the clutch and dual mass flywheel (DMF) ranges from £1,000 to £1,500, dependent upon the service provider.

I am uncertain of your location; but, I can provide you with a quotation for the clutch, DMF, and chains if you like. Currently doing that specific task on a 1 Series.

[Uneripty]

Hello, thank you. I am located in North London - and you?

Is it preferable to send a direct message or provide your contact information?
Thank you.

[Squirrrel]

I have sent you a note; my contact information is located at the bottom of my entries.

[Nekomp]

It may seem absurd, but I can discern the difference once the oil and filter have been replaced.

[Uneripty]

It does not seem foolish at all. It is reasonable that improved lubrication of components results in less noise; the enhancement in my vehicle motivates me to do an oil change weekly. (not that it is noisy before, but only since I can ascertain it is solely contributing to prolonging the lifespan of items)

[Nekomp]

It is the only engine I have ever seen after the oil change.
My motherboard sounds identical to before; I may only need to listen more attentively for the next alteration, humorously speaking.