My wife’s BMW X3 just got a drivetrain malfunction a couple days ago. The car still drives, we took it to the dealership, and they confirmed the timing chain issue. Needs to be replaced. Apparently it’s out of extended warranty and the class action lawsuit discount expired. The car has about 97,000 miles.
Looking online, it seems to be a not-uncommon issue that can be fixed for $2-3K. But $7.7K??!? Seriously? This is a screen cap of the dealership estimate. We’re in New Jersey.
Is this a fair estimate? Any insights would be appreciated as I get the feeling were being taken for a ride to force us to buy a new car. This 11-year-old car probably isn’t worth that much anymore, even though it’s in excellent condition otherwise. Thanks.
Yes, I had a F01 (N63) I did the valve seals on myself and replaced some of the timing chain rails whilst everything was apart. Dealership wanted ~$25k for the job and I believe the estimate is around 40 labor hours. It was worth it for me to do the job myself, but I sold the car a year or so after.
Depending on the engine, you can check if there’s a recall or “customer car package,” but it may be unlikely you’re still covered.