X3 N55 35i Idler pulley replacement

[Gary Dawson]

Been searching through the threads but as there is basically zero search filters i am asking for some advise. Apologies if this has been addressed and i'm duplicating here.

So to put you in the picture, i've been noticing a very irritating noise from the engine compartment, like an electric squeel mix with a minor grinding noise. Checked other forums and everything pointed to the belt tensioner. So i closed my eyes, bought the spares from BMW and replaced the tensioner and OFH gasket on the cooling side which leaked a bit.

Everything done and whilst replacing the fan housing i go and break the thin pipe from the radiator to the coolant reservoir:hammerhead:

Anyhow, start the car up and yes, you guessed it, the noise is still there. So today, another 2.5k later i buy a new serpentine belt (old one showing signs of small cracks) and a idler pulley.

Any clips on the replacement of that pulley available? Alternatively the procedure will be welcomed.

 

[Solo Man]

I usually listen to the pulleys when the belt is removed by spinning them by hand. If they are gruff or noisy i replace them. Easy diy once the belt/s are off. Some have caps on so just remove with screwdriver and then it is either ring spanner/socket or torx.

 

[brentbmw]

Been searching through the threads but as there is basically zero search filters i am asking for some advise. Apologies if this has been addressed and i'm duplicating here.

So to put you in the picture, i've been noticing a very irritating noise from the engine compartment, like an electric squeel mix with a minor grinding noise. Checked other forums and everything pointed to the belt tensioner. So i closed my eyes, bought the spares from BMW and replaced the tensioner and OFH gasket on the cooling side which leaked a bit.

Everything done and whilst replacing the fan housing i go and break the thin pipe from the radiator to the coolant reservoir:hammerhead:

Anyhow, start the car up and yes, you guessed it, the noise is still there. So today, another 2.5k later i buy a new serpentine belt (old one showing signs of small cracks) and a idler pulley.

Any clips on the replacement of that pulley available? Alternatively the procedure will be welcomed.

I had a similar problem recently, you can check out my thread here: https://www.bmwfanatics.co.za/showthread.php?tid=91989

I had the part replaced by BMW under warranty but you guessed it as well, noise is still there, quieter, but still there, especially with the aircon on. So I just learnt to live with it. Hopefully you will have better luck!

Here is a great video I found when I was still contemplating doing it myself before the warranty approved the fix.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="

" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Hope this helps!