Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set for the 1990-1996 BMW 320i
Stop the burning oil smell and keep your E36 320i engine clean and properly lubricated.
- The most common symptoms of failure are a burning oil smell and oil found in the spark plug wells.
- For this part, stick to high-quality aftermarket brands like Elring or Victor Reinz, which are original equipment suppliers to BMW.
- Always replace the full set, including the main gasket, spark plug seals, and the 15 bolt grommets.
- This is a very common DIY job for E36 owners, but careful cleaning and proper torqueing are essential for a leak-free result.
Is Your BMW 320i Leaking Oil?
A common issue on the E36 320i, especially as it ages, is a leaking valve cover gasket. Over time, the rubber gasket becomes hard and brittle from the engine's heat cycles. When this happens, it can no longer create a proper seal, leading to oil leaks. You might notice a burning oil smell after a drive, which is often oil dripping onto the hot exhaust manifold. Another clear sign is finding oil in the spark plug wells when you pull out the ignition coils.
Don't Ignore the Leak
While a small leak might not seem urgent, it can lead to bigger problems. Low engine oil can cause serious engine damage. Oil leaking onto other plastic or rubber parts can cause them to degrade faster. A significant leak can even become a fire hazard if enough oil drips onto the hot exhaust.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Gasket Set
When shopping for a new valve cover gasket set for your 1990-1996 320i, you'll find several aftermarket options. For a critical sealing component like this, brand quality matters.
- Elring: Elring is a well-respected German manufacturer and an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for BMW on many gaskets. This means their aftermarket part is often identical to the part you would get from a BMW dealer, just without the BMW logo. They are a trusted choice for a reliable, long-lasting seal.
- Victor Reinz: Another major German OEM supplier, Victor Reinz (sometimes listed as Reinz) also produces high-quality gaskets for European cars. Like Elring, they are a very popular and reliable choice among BMW owners and mechanics.
- Other Brands: While other budget-friendly brands exist, forum discussions among BMW enthusiasts often caution against using lower-quality gaskets. A failed gasket means doing the job all over again. Sticking with proven OEM-quality brands like Elring or Reinz is a smart investment for peace of mind.
Pro Tip: Get the Full Kit
Always buy a complete gasket set, not just the outer gasket. The set should include the main perimeter gasket and the two inner spark plug tube gaskets. It's also highly recommended to replace the 15 rubber grommets for the valve cover retaining bolts at the same time, as these are also a very common source of leaks.
Cost of Replacing Your Valve Cover Gasket Set
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Gasket Set | $45 - $70 |
| Shop Labor | $561 - $823 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $682 - $944 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to use sealant with the new gasket?
Yes. While you don't coat the entire gasket, BMW recommends applying a small dab of RTV sealant at the sharp corners, specifically where the VANOS unit meets the cylinder head (the "half-moons"). This helps prevent leaks in these critical areas. Use an oxygen-sensor-safe, high-temp RTV sealant.
Is this a difficult job to do myself?
For the E36 320i with the M50 or M52 engine, this is considered a relatively straightforward and common DIY job for someone with basic mechanical skills and tools. It involves removing the engine covers, ignition coils, and various connections to access the valve cover. The key is to be clean, ensure all old gasket material is removed, and to tighten the bolts to the correct torque specification in the proper sequence.
Are there any recalls or TSBs for this part?
There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the valve cover gasket itself on the 1990-1996 BMW 320i. Leaks are generally considered a normal wear-and-tear maintenance item for this vehicle's age.
What are the torque specs for the valve cover nuts?
The valve cover retaining nuts should be tightened to 89 in-lbs, which is approximately 7.4 ft-lbs or 10 Nm. It is very important to use a torque wrench and not overtighten them, as this can crack the valve cover or cause the new gasket to leak.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 11120034107 11129070990 11121703341
Fits the 2.0L M50 and M52 inline-6 engines used in the E36 chassis. The set includes one main perimeter gasket and two spark plug valley gaskets.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- BMW 320i: