bmw 330ci oil filler cap

[chezzer]

hi has anyone had trouble with moisture getting inside the oil filler cap due to the rubber seal perishing?? every now again i check the oil level inside the cap there seems to be little moisture or slight creamy substance im just hoping it not the worst scenario of the headgasket.

[Scott330ci]

do you do a lot of short journeys?

[chezzer]

erm yes do a little run to oxford once a week 35miles then just rd the town really the problem has been like for approx 4 mths now and it hasnt got any worse i just happened to check the oil level the other day and noticed little creamy substance inside the cap and just alittle bit inside the filler neck but not alot.

[dooosuk]

Just sounds to me like moisture as you're doing a lot of short journeys.

[chezzer]

yeh i hope so them caps seem to be very tight fit tho?? can moisture actually get in?? ive ordered a new cap from bmw so will try that 1st.

[the_g_ster]

You are doing very short runs so I really wouldn't worry. There are breathers etc on the engine but unless you have some thick mayo under there and they coolant is still crystal clear then I would not be bothered. That's a big engine to pop down tesco's in etc and 35 miles will warm it up but unless you do a good run more often there is always going to be some condensation. It will also lead do some more moisture in the exhaust as it will condense on the cold case and build up in the system.

Take out for a proper drive!!!

[Neil.D]

BMW oil filler caps are not brilliant and do perish.

If you see it is past its best just get a new one.

[bimmer_87]

take the filler cap off a thoroughly warmed up engine, leave for 10 minutes....

and magic! all the condensation, white muck has evaporated off!

realised that this morning, when i forgot to put it back on, came back 10 minutes later.

Edited by bimmer_87 on Wednesday 3rd February 15:32

ETA i came back 10 minutes later, not the condensation!

Edited by bimmer_87 on Wednesday 3rd February 15:33

[Fox-]

M54's are notorious for mayo on short journeys in winter. Dont worry about it.