F30POST
F30POST
2012-2015 BMW 3-Series and 4-Series Forum
BMW Garage BMW Meets Register Today's Posts
BMW 3-Series and 4-Series Forum (F30 / F32) | F30POST > Technical Forums > N55 Turbo Engine / Drivetrain / Exhaust Modifications > Advise needed on MPPK and MPE setups. Is it worth it in the end?
ARMA SPEED
Post Reply
 
Thread Tools Search this Thread
      07-21-2015, 05:52 PM   #1
buckybadger
BMW forever!
buckybadger's Avatar
United_States
1389
Rep
2,418
Posts

Drives: BMW
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: San Diego, CA

iTrader: (0)

Advise needed on MPPK and MPE setups. Is it worth it in the end?

I am getting a really good deal on MPPK and MPE. Total parts and labor is coming close to $3K + tax. I was just wondering if its worth to shell out the extra dough to get these kits? Is it really worth it?

I have been reading about MPPK/MPE on the forums and here are my observations. Please let me know if you have any experience/feedback.

1. Some dealers tend to screw up the new DME installation. Hence leading to back and forth dealer visits and extra headache. This is because the DME setup is new and not many technicians are trained. Is this true?
2. Some have reported that they only feel the power/torque difference when flooring the car (i.e. when they try to extract maximum output). Otherwise its almost the same drive as pre-MPPK/MPE setup.
3. Not really sure how BMW engine reliabitliy will get impacted. I plan to keep the car for 6-7 years.
4. Does the MPPK help the lag? You expect to go in a corner slightly slow and then exit out fast. But at times the 335i feels too laggy and it takes a moment for it wake up.
5. The default power and torque units are in HP and lb-ft. But post-MPPK/MPE installation they change to KW and Nm.

I would only like to do the installation if it adds to the joy of driving without impacting reliablity. I know it won't turn into M3 or M4 beast but at least the MPPK should help the car to be a little zippy and reduce the lag.

I own a 2014 BMW 335i M-Sport (more details on my signature).
__________________
2020 BMW X5
2019 BMW M2C
2014 BMW 335i
2009 BMW 328i

Last edited by buckybadger; 07-21-2015 at 06:04 PM..
Appreciate 0
      07-21-2015, 08:05 PM   #2
83883
Second Lieutenant
168
Rep
241
Posts

Drives: 435i, X3M40i, X5
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: United States

iTrader: (0)

Garage List
2021 BMW X3 M40i  [0.00]
2014 BMW 435i  [10.00]
- $3k is really high.
- 35hp, nice burble, smooth delivery. Super reliable. Not hugely noticeable if you are already used to power. The 335 m-sport should have come that way IMO. There are a ton of other options of course.
- Good sound from MPE once broken in.
- Turbo lag is not really an issue unless you are talking about trans kick down delay? That trans is really fast. In Sport mode you shouldn't be experiencing any lag, especially if you are manually shifting and already in the proper gear.
- Yes there was a couple reports of bad software installations early on.
- MPPK is a very mild tune (the least aggressive of all available tunes AFAIK) and the general consensus is that it isn't stressing the turbo or other drivetrain parts much. Many agree that you will want to change your plugs and oil a little more often that the schedule says.
For your stated goal of just wanting a little more zip while maintaining reliability... that would fit the bill just fine.
Good luck!
Appreciate 0
      07-21-2015, 09:06 PM   #3
iconoclast
Self-Deprecating Narcissist
iconoclast's Avatar
No_Country
7266
Rep
6,561
Posts

Drives: Audi BMW Ferrari LR MB
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: In, Out & Around...

iTrader: (1)

the way i see it is that you're paying for warranty retention over modifications. is the warranty worth trading for a few extra hp? only the driver can answer that. in most cases the MPPK would offer more than enough and achieve the goals of most drivers but if you're looking to get the most out of your vehicle this isn't it. (by my research and understanding YMMV)
Appreciate 0
      07-21-2015, 09:20 PM   #4
buckybadger
BMW forever!
buckybadger's Avatar
United_States
1389
Rep
2,418
Posts

Drives: BMW
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: San Diego, CA

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by 83883 View Post
- $3k is really high.
- 35hp, nice burble, smooth delivery. Super reliable. Not hugely noticeable if you are already used to power. The 335 m-sport should have come that way IMO. There are a ton of other options of course.
- Good sound from MPE once broken in.
- Turbo lag is not really an issue unless you are talking about trans kick down delay? That trans is really fast. In Sport mode you shouldn't be experiencing any lag, especially if you are manually shifting and already in the proper gear.
- Yes there was a couple reports of bad software installations early on.
- MPPK is a very mild tune (the least aggressive of all available tunes AFAIK) and the general consensus is that it isn't stressing the turbo or other drivetrain parts much. Many agree that you will want to change your plugs and oil a little more often that the schedule says.
For your stated goal of just wanting a little more zip while maintaining reliability... that would fit the bill just fine.
Good luck!
Thanks a lot for the detailed response. I was under the impression that I'm getting a good deal. Here's my break down.

MPPK: $1560.00 plus $330.00 labor
MPE: $1200.00 plus $165.00 labor
Chrome exhaust tips: $238.00 for both ($119.00 each)

Total: $3,493 + tax
Total with 15% discount: $2,969 + tax (This is what I'll be paying).

Glad I checked here before making the move. Where did you buy your parts from? Please, if you don't mind sharing.
__________________
2020 BMW X5
2019 BMW M2C
2014 BMW 335i
2009 BMW 328i
Appreciate 0
      07-21-2015, 09:37 PM   #5
fscuderia23
Second Lieutenant
fscuderia23's Avatar
114
Rep
208
Posts

Drives: 2014 F30 335i EBII + PPK/MPE
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Los Angeles/Seattle

iTrader: (0)

I just did this setup as well (2014 335i) and think its well worth the money. 35hp and 30lb-ft torque may not sound like much but you can definitely feel the difference. Each mode feels a bit more powerful and ppk actually made eco-pro bearable hahaha. (You'll certainly hear it at the very least… those burbles are amazing )
While the price is a bit steep if you want warranty and peace of mind in general, this is the safest way to go; if you need a bit more convincing in terms of reliability, the m135i and m235i are pretty much running the exact same setup enginewise, so it must be fine.
My installation at Crevier BMW (in OC, about an hour away from SD if you wanna go there) went flawlessly, and they completed the install and my 10k service within the afternoon. No weird iDrive settings or unit issues to report, but some of my presets did get deleted which wasn't too big of a deal, and if you do come across unit issues as you've mentioned, they are all interchangeable through the iDrive settings menu.
All in all, worth the upgrade, and I feel like this is how our 335s really should have come this way from the factory.
Appreciate 1
      07-21-2015, 09:59 PM   #6
Vegetable
Lieutenant Colonel
Vegetable's Avatar
United_States
793
Rep
1,627
Posts

Drives: 2019 M4 MT, 2024 X3MC
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Humboldt

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by fscuderia23 View Post
I just did this setup as well (2014 335i) and think its well worth the money. 35hp and 30lb-ft torque may not sound like much but you can definitely feel the difference. Each mode feels a bit more powerful and ppk actually made eco-pro bearable hahaha. (You'll certainly hear it at the very least… those burbles are amazing )
While the price is a bit steep if you want warranty and peace of mind in general, this is the safest way to go; if you need a bit more convincing in terms of reliability, the m135i and m235i are pretty much running the exact same setup enginewise, so it must be fine.
My installation at Crevier BMW (in OC, about an hour away from SD if you wanna go there) went flawlessly, and they completed the install and my 10k service within the afternoon. No weird iDrive settings or unit issues to report, but some of my presets did get deleted which wasn't too big of a deal, and if you do come across unit issues as you've mentioned, they are all interchangeable through the iDrive settings menu.
All in all, worth the upgrade, and I feel like this is how our 335s really should have come this way from the factory.

+1... Except Eco-pro and Comfort are still unbearable.
__________________
M4 in MG | 6 MT
Appreciate 1
      07-22-2015, 07:19 AM   #7
F32Fleet
Lieutenant General
F32Fleet's Avatar
United_States
3575
Rep
10,355
Posts

Drives: 2015 435i
Join Date: May 2005
Location: Southeastern US

iTrader: (0)

Yes. Why? Warranty remains intact and resale preservation vs an aftermarket tune.
__________________
"Drive more, worry less. "

435i, MPPK, MPE, M-Sport Line
Appreciate 0
      07-22-2015, 08:01 AM   #8
83883
Second Lieutenant
168
Rep
241
Posts

Drives: 435i, X3M40i, X5
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: United States

iTrader: (0)

Garage List
2021 BMW X3 M40i  [0.00]
2014 BMW 435i  [10.00]
Quote:
Originally Posted by deznium View Post
Thanks a lot for the detailed response. I was under the impression that I'm getting a good deal. Here's my break down.

MPPK: $1560.00 plus $330.00 labor
MPE: $1200.00 plus $165.00 labor
Chrome exhaust tips: $238.00 for both ($119.00 each)

Total: $3,493 + tax
Total with 15% discount: $2,969 + tax (This is what I'll be paying).

Glad I checked here before making the move. Where did you buy your parts from? Please, if you don't mind sharing.
Check with Brian at Sun Motor Cars BMW for excellent BMW parts pricing. BKeller @ sunmotorcars.com
A few months ago the MPE was around $900 with tips and the MPPK was $1190.
Appreciate 0
      07-22-2015, 08:46 AM   #9
fshubert
Captain
fshubert's Avatar
89
Rep
710
Posts

Drives: 2015 F30 335i
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Northwest NJ

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by 83883 View Post
- $3k is really high.
- 35hp, nice burble, smooth delivery. Super reliable. Not hugely noticeable if you are already used to power. The 335 m-sport should have come that way IMO. There are a ton of other options of course.
- Good sound from MPE once broken in.
- Turbo lag is not really an issue unless you are talking about trans kick down delay? That trans is really fast. In Sport mode you shouldn't be experiencing any lag, especially if you are manually shifting and already in the proper gear.
- Yes there was a couple reports of bad software installations early on.
- MPPK is a very mild tune (the least aggressive of all available tunes AFAIK) and the general consensus is that it isn't stressing the turbo or other drivetrain parts much. Many agree that you will want to change your plugs and oil a little more often that the schedule says.
For your stated goal of just wanting a little more zip while maintaining reliability... that would fit the bill just fine.
Good luck!
+1 Having the MPPK and MPE is worth it!
__________________
2018 Mustang GT | Royal Crimson | Black Leather | 6-speed | Cold Weather | Premium Pkg | 20" Alloy Wheels | Tuned to 510HP | Less than $45K
Previous loves: 2015 F30 335i / 2013 F30 335i / 2009 E90 335i / 2007 E90 328xi
Appreciate 0
      07-22-2015, 12:06 PM   #10
bavarianride
Major General
1509
Rep
5,089
Posts

Drives: bimmer
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: northern california

iTrader: (0)

To OP, my choice probably will be(if not already port installed to save labor charge) to skip MPE and MPPK, and put the $3k aside for the next car, maybe a F80?
Appreciate 0
      07-22-2015, 12:23 PM   #11
nicknaz
Lieutenant General
nicknaz's Avatar
3188
Rep
10,509
Posts

Drives: C6Z
Join Date: May 2008
Location: NorCal

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by deznium View Post
4. Does the MPPK help the lag? You expect to go in a corner slightly slow and then exit out fast. But at times the 335i feels too laggy and it takes a moment for it wake up.
That might be traction control and not lag

I think those are good parts if you are keeping the car

Agree with the others you can probably shave a few hundred of each part. I was getting quotes for around $1200 including install and tax a few months ago
Appreciate 0
      07-23-2015, 08:51 AM   #12
Moopy94
New Member
1
Rep
8
Posts

Drives: 2015 335i Xdrive With MPPK
Join Date: Mar 2015
Location: Minnesota

iTrader: (0)

I got mine installed in April on my 335. MPPK with Install was $1,700 in Minnesota. I did get a $500 credit for "BMW Accessories" with my car purchase so it was $1,200 out of my pocket.

And it is 100% worth it to get the MPPK. I had a 2013 328 and I put a Burger Stage 1 on it. Totally happy with it, but in the middle of winter taking the thing on and off for service was a bit chilly here in Minnesota. Plus I always had the warranty concern in the back of my mind.

The MPPK definitely ups the fun level of the car and the throttle response is much, much better.

Unless you need to save the few hundred dollars (you could save shopping for the best price) for food, diapers, or your electric bill just get it, enjoy it, and don't sweat a few hundred dollars on a $55,000 car in my opinion.

100% totally worth the cost for the MPPK.
Appreciate 0
      07-24-2015, 01:27 AM   #13
Snap0rz
Enlisted Member
3
Rep
39
Posts

Drives: '15 335i
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Virginia

iTrader: (0)

I just got the MPPK for $1350 + 80 labor for install and MPE for $1041 + 160 for install.

Should have both installed by Monday. Can't wait.
Appreciate 0
      07-24-2015, 01:58 AM   #14
alex75
New Member
2
Rep
5
Posts

Drives: 435i
Join Date: Nov 2014
Location: South Africa

iTrader: (0)

435i F32 PPk- Best thing I ever did!

This is a run I did in my 435i (F32) with MPPK:



I installed the PPK when the car had 1000km and now I am on about 10,000km and so it has been run-in properly. My 80 kph to 200 kph is around 11.9 seconds making it much quicker than standard. Also this run was done at an altitude of 1,753 metres (5,751 ft) above sea level. I would say that the 250kw that BMW are claiming is actually closer to 260kw.

To all the 435i owners out there, get the PPK it is the best money you will ever spend!
Appreciate 0
      07-24-2015, 02:05 AM   #15
buckybadger
BMW forever!
buckybadger's Avatar
United_States
1389
Rep
2,418
Posts

Drives: BMW
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: San Diego, CA

iTrader: (0)

Thanks, how is everyone getting good deals on these kits? Are you guys buying the parts through bmw dealers or from another vendor? Where are you guys doing the installation? Also can I keep my the original/stock exhaust after swapping with MPE?

Thanks!
__________________
2020 BMW X5
2019 BMW M2C
2014 BMW 335i
2009 BMW 328i
Appreciate 0
      07-24-2015, 02:20 AM   #16
Jera_Jakerz
Second Lieutenant
Jera_Jakerz's Avatar
United_States
37
Rep
243
Posts

Drives: 2014 BMW 335i xDrive
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: Eastampton

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by alex75 View Post
To all the 435i owners out there, get the PPK it is the best money you will ever spend!
Bold statement sir. . .

To OP. MPPK is BMW. Basically you are paying a lot more, even at a discount, then off brands can provide. Granted this takes a lot of worry away with the whole warranty/dealership factor, but plane and simple your paying a lot for what it gets you, that does not mean you are paying more than what it is worth - only you can decide that.

If you are looking for more hp/$ this is obviously not the mod/tune for you.

If you are looking for best quality/$ this depends on your opinion of Dinan, AC Schnitz, Hartge and others that (depending on where you live) can still give you the warranty and tune.

As far as the exhaust goes, this is also personal opinion on sound. Personally I love Akra (too pricey and they pissed me off when they were unclear on price and pieces), Dinan (still pricey), AWE (still pricey), and MPE (didn't care for the tips). Pricey though is just my opinion, the catless DP gets me 90% of what I want it to sound like, so 1k-3k more is not really worth the next 10% for perfection.
__________________
JB4 Stage 2 | aFe Magnum FORCE Intake System DRY | ER Chargepipe | ER CATLESS Downpipe | ATM Intercooler | BMS 2.3 Gal Meth Inj kit | Bilstein B14 | OEM Slotted/Dimpeled front rotors | Cool Carbon brakes | Go Fast Bit DV+ | Pure Stage 2 Turbo | Pure inlet
Appreciate 2
8737D0.00
      07-24-2015, 02:45 AM   #17
alex75
New Member
2
Rep
5
Posts

Drives: 435i
Join Date: Nov 2014
Location: South Africa

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by Jera_Jakerz View Post
Bold statement sir. . .

To OP. MPPK is BMW. Basically you are paying a lot more, even at a discount, then off brands can provide. Granted this takes a lot of worry away with the whole warranty/dealership factor, but plane and simple your paying a lot for what it gets you, that does not mean you are paying more than what it is worth - only you can decide that.

If you are looking for more hp/$ this is obviously not the mod/tune for you.

If you are looking for best quality/$ this depends on your opinion of Dinan, AC Schnitz, Hartge and others that (depending on where you live) can still give you the warranty and tune.

As far as the exhaust goes, this is also personal opinion on sound. Personally I love Akra (too pricey and they pissed me off when they were unclear on price and pieces), Dinan (still pricey), AWE (still pricey), and MPE (didn't care for the tips). Pricey though is just my opinion, the catless DP gets me 90% of what I want it to sound like, so 1k-3k more is not really worth the next 10% for perfection.
I guess if you are willing to risk your warranty, there may be other good options out there. My point was that the MPPK greatly improves your performance and sound, and I would be surprised (and obviously this is just my opinion) if anybody who paid the money for it regrets doing so.
Appreciate 1
      07-24-2015, 02:50 AM   #18
Jera_Jakerz
Second Lieutenant
Jera_Jakerz's Avatar
United_States
37
Rep
243
Posts

Drives: 2014 BMW 335i xDrive
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: Eastampton

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by alex75 View Post
I guess if you are willing to risk your warranty, there may be other good options out there. My point was that the MPPK greatly improves your performance and sound, and I would be surprised (and obviously this is just my opinion) if anybody who paid the money for it regrets doing so.
Anyone out there who asks, "will this work with MPPK as well" shows a sign of regret.
__________________
JB4 Stage 2 | aFe Magnum FORCE Intake System DRY | ER Chargepipe | ER CATLESS Downpipe | ATM Intercooler | BMS 2.3 Gal Meth Inj kit | Bilstein B14 | OEM Slotted/Dimpeled front rotors | Cool Carbon brakes | Go Fast Bit DV+ | Pure Stage 2 Turbo | Pure inlet
Appreciate 1
      07-24-2015, 11:06 AM   #19
BMHunden
Private
33
Rep
52
Posts

Drives: 2019 BMW 540i
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: South Africa

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by alex75 View Post
This is a run I did in my 435i (F32) with MPPK:



I installed the PPK when the car had 1000km and now I am on about 10,000km and so it has been run-in properly. My 80 kph to 200 kph is around 11.9 seconds making it much quicker than standard. Also this run was done at an altitude of 1,753 metres (5,751 ft) above sea level. I would say that the 250kw that BMW are claiming is actually closer to 260kw.

To all the 435i owners out there, get the PPK it is the best money you will ever spend!
Just a shout out to another dude who drives a 435i with MPPK in SOUTH AFRICA

From the altitude, I'd guess you're in Joburg.

Let's not start reprimanding these cheap Americans for their complaints regarding the price of the kit, though. I paid R21k for mine ... twice ... on both my first and second 435's ...
Appreciate 0
      07-26-2015, 11:59 AM   #20
WP7778
Private First Class
WP7778's Avatar
United_States
27
Rep
151
Posts

Drives: '13 BMW 335i
Join Date: Mar 2014
Location: Texas

iTrader: (3)

Quote:
Originally Posted by alex75 View Post
I guess if you are willing to risk your warranty, there may be other good options out there. My point was that the MPPK greatly improves your performance and sound, and I would be surprised (and obviously this is just my opinion) if anybody who paid the money for it regrets doing so.

Agreed!

to OP: I've had my mppk for almost 2 years now, no regrets whatsoever. Didn't want to go the jb tune route just yet because of warranty, so why not step up to this in the mean time?

also, for your information as well...
http://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/sho...k+dyno+results
__________________
Drives: 2013 AW 335i
Current Mods: MPPK|MPS|MPE|Black Kidney Grills|iND AW Reflectors|MORR 19" Wheels on MPSS
Upcoming Mods: Front Lip|CF Spoiler|Side Panels|CF Mirror Covers
Appreciate 0
      07-28-2015, 07:41 AM   #21
RoundelM3
Major General
RoundelM3's Avatar
United_States
1837
Rep
6,990
Posts

Drives: 15 F80 M3, 22 G01 X3 30i
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: Clayton, NC

iTrader: (2)

Garage List
2022 BMW X3  [9.83]
2015 BMW M3  [6.50]
MPPK is an OEM BMW "accessory" and is worth something at sale/trade-in time. I ordered my car with MPE and black grilles (a package available for 2013 MY) for $1300 installed. MPPK came out after my car was delivered, so I bought it for $965 from Tischer BMW (getbmwparts.com), had the dealer install the software for $100, and DIY'd the engine cover, lower airbox, and sticker/decals (the template for placement was included). I found a complete set of instructions published by BMW with illustrations, etc., and it took very little time (less than an hour) to do everything other than the software. The red envelope in the kit contains a key code for the dealer to get the software flash to download and install into the ECU; there's no real "labor" involved other than connecting the GT-1 to the car and initiating the process. So, $1100 for MPPK installed, and $1300 for MPE and black grilles totals $2400 installed; probably a little less without the black grilles.
__________________

2015 F80 ///M3 Sedan 7DCT Tanzanite, 2022 X3 sDrive30i 8AT Brooklyn Grey
Appreciate 0
      07-28-2015, 09:19 AM   #22
DFW_M
Major General
1671
Rep
6,589
Posts

Drives: Macan GTS
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Dallas, TX

iTrader: (4)

What about the MPPK with the stock exhaust (no MPE upgrade)?
How would that work?
Appreciate 0
Post Reply

Bookmarks


Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 08:32 AM.




f30post
Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.
1Addicts.com, BIMMERPOST.com, E90Post.com, F30Post.com, M3Post.com, ZPost.com, 5Post.com, 6Post.com, 7Post.com, XBimmers.com logo and trademark are properties of BIMMERPOST