Dam it. Valve Cover Gasket Leak

[Dr. Dre]

I've owned the car for a few months. I had the Rod Bearings done 2 days after buying the car with 85k. Just recently started to drive it really hard at least as far as revs. First time into the 7000-8000 rpm range.

I was bored yesterday and popped the hood just to look at the engine. Noticed oil on my valve cover by the oil cap. Also noticed oil along the valve cover gasket.

I realize in the scheme of thing it's not a big deal, just venting. It's going to be a at least $1000 to get fixed.

[6ixSpd]

I mean, it's a 85k mile car of course it's going to need some minor TLC...

[pbonsalb]

A few months before hitting 7000-8000 rpm? Maybe the car is upset.

A used M3 costs as little as $25k but maintenance is still on a $65k car.

My 08 is coming up on 90k miles but I have not yet had to do the valve cover gaskets. Done a bunch of other work, though.

[rcracin]

Man up and spend a few hours doing it yourself. More satisfaction and less bitchin about cost. Good forum here. You'll get help live.

[Redd]

You may need new valve covers too. The pre 2012 ones warp and that's why they leak.

[Dr. Dre]

Originally Posted by Redd

You may need new valve covers too. The pre 2012 ones warp and that's why they leak.

Thanks. That makes me feel a lot better.

[Redd]

I know the feeling. I just ordered mine. Sigh.

[Scrippy]

Bro, a lil oil will come out by the cap if you mash on it for long durations. A valve cover leak is bad when it comes out between the head and valve cover gasket. What you describe happens sometime and is not an issue. If it is a high amount then make sure your oil cap is on properly or buy a new one for $25.

[pbonsalb]

Good point. OP should make sure the oil leaking from the cap is not migrating down to the gasket edge and making it appear to be a separate leak.

[dmk08]

Originally Posted by 6ixSpd

I mean, it's a 85k mile BMW of course it's going to need some minor TLC...

FTFY.

[L4ces]

Originally Posted by dmk08

FTFY.

Originally Posted by dmk08

FTFY.

Speak english

[NoHedge]

Originally Posted by pbonsalb

A few months before hitting 7000-8000 rpm? Maybe the car is upset.

A used M3 costs as little as $25k but maintenance is still on a $65k car.

My 08 is coming up on 90k miles but I have not yet had to do the valve cover gaskets. Done a bunch of other work, though.

Curious to know what you've had to fix so far?

[pbonsalb]

I had a low pressure fuel sensor fail around 2013 on my 08M3. I have not had anything else that needed repair, but it feels like the original front rotors may now be warped a little so I just bought new ones to put on.

I have done a bunch of maintenance and preventative maintenance. I changed all fluids, filters, 02s, motor mounts, rod bearings, front upper and lower control arms and rear toe arms (they felt a little loose to me), and a few sets of tires. I may change the tie rod ends, though I cannot feel any play, and I may change the belts and pulleys and tensioners though there are presently no issues.

I have done a bunch of performance mods. Braided brake lines, stoptech brake pads, Bilstein B8, H&R springs, poly rear subframe bushings, poly diff bushings, underdrive pulley, x-pipe, rear exhaust, intake, tune, water/meth injection, Evans coolant, ZHP shift knob, carbon fiber driveshaft, wider wheels and tires.

[Malek@MRF]

Dr.Dre, your car is fitted with the older oil cap. Replace the oil cap with the updated part and your leak will more than likely stop.