[paco89]

Took my e90 (06 325xi) into the dealer yesterday because it has a small oil leak which drips on the downpipe and around the firewall and vaporizes the oil so it is easy to smell inside the car. Especially when driven hard at high RPMs.

Anyway, previous history:

1 year ago Dealer replaced:
- Valve cover gasket
- Mechatronic Sleeve Seal
- Oil pan gasket

I thought for sure the VCG had failed again...

Their diagnosis today:
- Bad Valvetronic seal.
> If this is the case, oil would have to accumulate enough on the valve cover to start dripping around the firewall/top of downpipe area. I see this somewhat unlikely.

- They claim the valve cover gasket is still good.
> If it was bad, they would have to replace it under their 2 year service guarantee for free. I am a little skeptical it is not the cause of my oil leak.

They are quoting me $360 to replace the Valvetronic Seal. (parts & labor).

I am a tech myself and can do the work.

Do you guys think the dealer would lie if the valve cover gasket was bad so they don't have to replace it for free?

Has anyone seen a leak by the firewall caused by the valvetronic seal?

Any thoughts will be appreciated!

Is it possible to converse with the technician at BMW and have them explain to you infront of the car their diagnosis? Any experience doing this anyone?

Thank you for reading!