Guys, I don't know how you want to take this. I had a one-on-one conversation with BMW's technical head in Australia today, and finally had an opportunity to raise the bearing concern issue. I said, I plan to keep this car even if I bought the new one, and he quickly stopped me to say, that's what most owners who have ordered the new, one are doing.
Given that, I need a peace of mind that this engine is not going to explode on me given the issues worldwide. He assured me there is no such issue, and if I "properly maintain" the car and "keep the oil fresh" I will not have any issues. But he also pointed out, not to forget that the car is getting old, in my case will be seven years in November, I need to expect issues, but definitely not bearing issues. The most important thing to remember was to follow the warm up procedure which he said was "critical" to the longevity of the engine. He said, "do these things" and you will be fine. In the event of a problem with the engine, BMW Australia will look at individual case-by-case and look after the customer.
My service advisor pointed out that my car hasn't seen the dealership since the warranty ran out because I do my oil and break fluid change. He said, that's fine, as long as you keep your receipts for the genuine parts and 10w-60 oil purchased through the dealership, and note against the car on the dealership computer the date each oil change was carried. This will give them an ongoing record of the car on the dealer computer. I think that's fair.
Most importantly he said, 10w-60 was the right oil for the engine, and do not swap it for anything else. Period.
The other things he discussed, unfortunately, I cannot post it on a public forum.
From my point of view, I couldn't have got a better assurance. Hope this helps, at least for the Australian forum members.
