I own a 530d se 53 re about 70,000 miles.
Bought from origional owner 12months ago, but no extended warranty.
Marvelous car, awsome acceleration, 36.5 mpg from new.
Full BMW Service
On Easter Sat the Swirl Flaps dropped into the manifold and my local dealership has diognosed a NEW engine required at a cost of £ 12,500.
They have applied to Customer Service for a "Good will" grant.
Are you able to advise if this has happened on other cars, and how much help am I likely to get from BMW. The trade valure of the car is £ 13,000.00
Thank you
Bill L

This is well covered on a couple of threads on www.bmwland.co.uk

Check here for more details on the issue as has been followed and a suggested solution.

Swirl Flap thread;
http://www.bmwland.co.uk/talker/viewtopic.php?t=53451 

Swirl Flap removal;
http://www.bmwland.co.uk/talker/viewtopic.php?t=67930 

Am watching with concern and interest as I've had 2 320ds and my X3 has the same engine even though it 'should' have the post 2004 modified inlet manifold.

HTH