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If you own a BMW equipped with the renowned B58 engine, you’re likely no stranger to its exceptional performance and refined engineering. However, many BMW B58 owners have encountered a serious problem — the dreaded B58 oil filter failure. This phenomenon has sparked discussions and raised questions about the underlying reasons behind this unexpected behavior.
Today, we’ll cover everything you need to know about oil filter disintegration in BMW B58 engines. We’ll explain the reasons behind this issue and provide viable solutions and maintenance tips to help you keep your BMW running smoothly.
Understanding the BMW B58 Engine
The BMW B58 engine is an icon of German automotive excellence, admired for its combination of performance and reliability. Powering a range of BMW models, from the 1 Series to the Z4 and even the 2018 Toyota Supra, the B58 engine has earned a loyal following among automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Its inline-six configuration, turbocharged induction, and advanced technology deliver a thrilling performance while maintaining a refined driving experience.
Underneath the hood, the B58 engine offers an array of cutting-edge features designed to elevate driving dynamics. Every component is engineered meticulously to extract maximum power and efficiency from its twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection system. Whether tearing up the track or cruising the open road, the B58 delivers a seamless blend of power, responsiveness, and refinement that leaves a lasting impression on drivers.
What is the oil filter problem on the BMW B58?
The main issue with the BMW B58 oil filter’s paper filter element is that it shreds to pieces, mainly due to wrong replacement practices and the poor design of the early version of the genuine BMW oil filter. The bottom portion of the filter frequently separates from the degraded filter material when you attempt to remove it while performing an oil change.
The BMW B58 Oil Filter Conundrum
For many BMW owners with B58 engines in their cars, this frustrating issue ruins the joy of an oil change. Upon removal of the oil filter cap, the oil filter’s paper element may shred to pieces due to a design flaw, improper removal technique, or simply being old and degraded if the maintenance schedule is not followed.
And it doesn’t stop there! The lower part of the oil filter may get stuck on the oil filter housing, along with loose oil filter paper elements. Both of these may become a headache since they simply mean it is no longer a simple oil change job and requires additional parts, hours, and elbow grease.
Why Does Your BMW B58 Oil Filter Keep Shredding?
Some factors affect why the BMW B58 oil filter shreds during removal. Here are the known factors we found out while working on them:
- Material and Design Flaw — The oil filter itself may have a design or material flaw that makes it more susceptible to breaking under normal conditions of use.
- O-Ring Seals — If the O-ring seals on the filter aren’t properly lubricated during installation, it can cause the filter to stick to the housing and break when someone attempts to loosen the oil filter cap.
- Removal Technique — Removing the oil filter cap directly can cause the oil filter to be subjected to torque, which results in twisting and breaking. A special removal technique has been implemented to prevent this.
Importance of Proper Lubrication and Filtration
Lubrication and filtration are the lifeblood of any engine, and the BMW B58 engine is no exception. Proper oil circulation reduces friction and wear and dissipates heat, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. The oil filter (the B58 oil filter, in our case) plays a crucial role in this process. It traps contaminants and debris to prevent them from circulating through the engine. However, when the filter fails, it compromises the engine’s health, leading to potential damage and diminished performance.
Causes of BMW B58 Oil Filter Degradation
Now that we know what happens with the oil filter, the next step is to explore the potential causes of this issue. Here are the common causes of oil filter degradation on your BMW.
Design Flaws
The most reported cause of the B58 oil filter disintegration lies in its design and construction. The several-generation oil filters’ design can’t withstand routine maintenance stresses. They usually fail by themselves at the time of oil change when they are removed. This recurrent issue highlights the critical need for re-engineering these filters to withstand maintenance procedures reliably, ensuring longevity and preventing untimely failures during service.
Removal and Installation Error
Another reason for the BMW B58 oil filter disintegration issue is the inadequate attention given to the oil filter during installation. During assembly, the oil filters are installed without properly lubricating their seals. This causes the filter to stick to the oil filter housing and oil filter cap and later disintegrate when the twisting force is applied to them during removal.
Wear and Tear
As you drive, the oil filter experiences wear and tear, causing the paper element to degrade gradually. This degradation can make the paper element brittle, increasing the likelihood of it disintegrating when the filter is removed. Sticking to the maintenance schedule is crucial to prevent such deterioration and ensure the oil filter continues trapping contaminants and effectively protecting the engine.
How long do BMW oil filters last?
The oil filter reliably performs its function until the next scheduled maintenance, although it may continue to function beyond that point. However, like any filter, it gradually accumulates contaminants over time, potentially leading to clogs that hinder its efficiency and effectiveness. Regular replacement during maintenance intervals is essential to ensure the oil filter maintains peak performance, safeguarding the engine against harmful debris and preserving its longevity.
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DIY BMW B58 Oil Filter Replacement and Remedies
While replacing or reinstalling the B58 oil filter is a must during an oil change, it is imperative to approach every step of the process carefully for a successful replacement to prevent the oil filter from shredding on the next removal. Below are the step-by-step instructions on replacing the BMW B58 oil filter safely.
Tools Required
- New oil filter and gasket
- New oil filter housing (If the oil filter disintegrates during removal)
- Ratchet and socket set
- Torque wrench
- Drain pan
- OBD II scanner
- Work gloves gloves
Safety First
Park your BMW on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Let the engine cool down for a bit before you start working.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Locate the Oil Filter Housing — The oil filter housing on the BMW B58 engine is typically located on the top side of the engine, near the intake manifold. It’s a black plastic cylinder with a hexagonal nut on top for removal.
Drain the Oil — Position the drain pan beneath the oil pan and remove the drain plug to drain the oil. Allow the oil to drain completely.
Remove the Old Oil Filter — Use the appropriate socket and ratchet to loosen and remove the oil filter housing cap. Rotate the oil filter housing cap two times counterclockwise to loosen it, then stop. Afterward, rotate the oil filter housing cap twice clockwise to tighten it again, then stop again.
This is done to loosen the oil filter gaskets if they are stuck on their sealing points and relieve the vacuum pressure present on the oil filter housing. Proceed by gently removing the oil filter housing cap and the filter insert. Be careful, as there might still be some oil inside the housing.
Remove/replace the oil filter housing — If the oil filter disintegrates, make sure to remove all of the debris and the lower portion of the filter stuck in the oil filter housing to prevent it from entering the oil passageways.
Should extraction prove impossible, the whole oil filter housing must be replaced to ensure the tiny oil filter’s paper element does not enter the oil passageways and cause a disaster for your engine.
Replace the Oil Filter Housing Gasket — Once the old filter is removed, replace the old oil filter housing gasket with a new one. Ensure that the sealing surface is clean before installing the new gasket.
Install the New Oil Filter — Insert the new oil filter into the oil filter housing and make sure it’s seated properly. Before installing the new filter, ensure the O-rings are fully lubed to prevent the oil filter from sticking to the oil filter housing and cap.
Reinstall the Oil Filter Housing Cap — Carefully thread the oil filter housing cap back onto the housing. Use a torque wrench to tighten it to 19 ft. lb (25 Nm). Overtightening can damage the housing or cause leaks, so be cautious.
Refill with Oil — BMW recommends Replacing the drain plug on the oil pan and refilling the engine with the appropriate amount and type of engine oil.
Check for Leaks — Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Then, turn off the engine and check around the oil filter housing and drain plug for any signs of leaks. Stop the engine and inspect the affected area if you notice any leaks. Correct the oil level if it is a bit low.
Dispose of Old Oil and Filter — Properly dispose of the old oil and filter according to local regulations. Many auto parts stores accept used oil for recycling.
Reset Oil Service Light — Using an appropriate OBD II scanner tool, reset the maintenance warning light to ensure you are updated the next time your car is due for service.
How much oil does B58 need?
The BMW B58 engine requires 7 quarts of synthetic motor oil. The recommended oil is LL17-FE+ 0W20. Other suitable replacements are LL04 0W30, LL04 5W30, and LL12-FE 0W30. Motul is a good alternative to Genuine BMW oil. Not only does it have the same viscosity grade, but it also has BMW Longlife approval.
Maintenance Tips
Even after replacing the B58 oil filter, keeping up with maintenance is vital. It helps keep your engine running smoothly, catches problems early, and ensures your car stays in great shape for a long time.
Regular Oil Changes
- Adhere to BMW’s recommended oil change intervals to ensure proper engine lubrication and longevity.
- Use high-quality synthetic oils that meet the specifications outlined in your BMW owner’s manual.
- Consider shortening oil change intervals for vehicles subjected to severe driving conditions, such as frequent stop-and-go traffic or high-performance driving.
Inspection Schedule
- Establish a routine inspection schedule to identify potential oil leaks, abnormal engine sounds, and dashboard warnings.
- Periodically check the oil filter housing, seals, and surrounding components for signs of leaks or damage.
- Listen for any unusual engine noises that could indicate issues with oil circulation or component wear.
Quality Oil and Filters
- Invest in premium synthetic engine oils and genuine BMW or aftermarket oil filters such as Mann filters and Wix filters to maintain optimal engine performance.
- Choose oil filters specifically designed for the BMW B58 engine to ensure proper fitment and filtration efficiency.
- Avoid using low-quality or off-brand oil filters that may compromise engine protection and reliability.
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At Bimmers.com, we offer OEM BMW oil filters and housing tailored for the B58 engine. Our filters are engineered to meet BMW’s standards and offer a seamless fit and reliable performance. We also provide supportive components like o-rings, oil, and seals to enhance your maintenance routine. Say goodbye to shredded oil filter issues on your BMW B58 engine with our high-quality products.
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