BMW E46 318i N42 Oil Leak

[SMRTARSX1]

Hi All

I have a BMW E46 318i LCI with the N42 Motor.

Before I book the car (and order the parts) I would like some input.

The car has a rather hectic leak which seems MOST efficient at leaking just after the car is turned off. I suspect the following:

Tappet Cover Gasket
Vacuum Pump O Ring

A look at Real-OEM suggests those are the only two gaskets near the back of the motor and as it seems the oil is being "pushed" out after you turn the car off I am inclined to think its the Vacuum Pump O Ring.

Anyone got any opinions? I see its not a difficult job, but for the purpose of getting it all done at once, is there anything else I should be sorting?

The oil drips on the exhaust manifold.

Thanks!

Mike

 

[Nobz330i]

Definitely the Tappet Gasket Cover.

 

[JohnLod]

Hi,
you should not over look the vacuum pump.There was issues with the first pumps leaking. Check the index number on the back of the pump. Index 03 is the latest pump. You can just put the repair kit (costs 150- 250, cant remember) and the fit it while you have the tappet cover off. Make sure to put the sealant in the correct places when refitting the tappet cover and follow the tightening sequence preferably. There is a chance that the cover is the problem, we have had to replace the cover before as it either has a hairline crack or gets distorted.

Regards