Bolt breaks into a common BMW N55 engine or quality defects
2025-09-25 10:09:15
In November 2013, more than 100 BMW owners in the U.S. reported experiencing a sudden loss of power due to a faulty engine bolt. This issue led many to visit their local BMW 4S dealerships for repairs, but they soon found themselves caught in disputes over after-sales service quality and transparency. The problem became particularly highlighted in cases where the bolts broke, causing damage to the engine and raising serious concerns about safety and reliability.
According to *Consumer Reports*, the issue involves the N55 engine, which is used across several BMW models. The faulty part is a bolt located between the intake camshaft adjustment device and the sprocket. When this bolt breaks, it can cause damage to the engine, leading to reduced power, oil consumption, and other performance issues. This problem isn't unique to China—it has been reported globally, with similar cases documented in Taiwan and even discussed on international forums like BIMMERPOST as early as 2010.
The N55 engine features BMW’s advanced Valvetronic and turbocharging technologies, making it one of the company’s most innovative power units. However, despite its reputation, the engine has faced repeated failures due to the bolt breaking. Some experts suggest that the aluminum material used in these bolts may be prone to warping under certain driving conditions, such as sudden acceleration or heavy loads.
BMW has acknowledged the issue and stated that affected owners can have the faulty parts replaced free of charge at any authorized dealership. While the company has not issued a formal recall, it has taken steps to inform customers and offer solutions. However, some owners have raised concerns about whether BMW fully disclosed the risks associated with the defect, especially given reports that some dealers signed confidentiality agreements with affected customers.
Experts like Lin Jian from Tsinghua University emphasize that companies have a responsibility to inform consumers about known defects. He suggests that rather than keeping information hidden, manufacturers should proactively reach out to affected owners and provide clear solutions.
Despite the lack of a mandatory recall, BMW continues to work on addressing the issue. The company claims it is collecting data and taking necessary actions to ensure customer safety. For now, owners are advised to contact their local 4S center if they suspect any problems related to the engine bolt failure. With over 400,000 BMW vehicles sold in China alone in 2013, the potential impact of this issue remains significant, highlighting the importance of ongoing communication and transparency between manufacturers and consumers.
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