Expert: Josh Fields - 3/30/2006

Question
I was just informed today my 2000 BMW 325ci needs a new engine after the fluids started leaking together.  I find this shocking for a BMW engine that's not that old.  Have you heard of this problem before?  What do you think is a reasonable range for a new engine?

Answer
Sheri,
 It's not "that" unusual.  99% of the time it's due to overheating.  If the radiator is clogged or there is a leak in the coolant system, the engine wont be cooled and will soon overheat.  When metal gets hot it expands, and when it gets too hot it will expand so much that it warps.  You may not be able to see it with the naked eye, but if you put it on a perfectly flat table top, you could see warpage in a cylinder head.  Anyhow, when the cylinder head warps it will allow gaps to form and pressures built up inside the cylinder will seek out these gaps and blow the head gasket out of the gap.  When the head gasket blows it allows oil and water(coolant) to mix.  Since coolant is not a lubricant, it will not provide the same protection, and will eventually allow the engine to wear its self out.

 If you are asking about price range, I dont know exact figures, but I would assume it would be in the $3,000 to $5,000 range, and possibly more.  You "could" find a used, low-mileage engine to replace it with, and that would be a viable choice.  Get one with less than 50k miles though, as that's about 3-4 years worth of driving.

 I agree, it doesn't seem "that old", but the average person drives 15k miles a year, so your car "should" have ~90k miles on it.  I've owned a BMW with 325k miles before it was wrecked, and it ran great.  so taking care of these engines is a must.  Make sure the oil is clean, and gets changed when needed.  Most "quick-lube" places put CHEAP oil into your car, and you get poor performance from the oil as a result.

 Hope this helps,
 Josh