Turbo failures on E46/E39/E60 diesels

[timwatsham]

I replaced my 157k E39 530d with an Audi A6 1.9tdi a couple of miles back. Have to say I haven't really bonded with the replacement (feels too sensible, and not that much fun to drive), so I'm looking at getting another BMW.

Toying with E46 320d v E46 330d v E60 525d all to be tourings. Quite a spread of prices (think I would prefer the E60, but not sure I want to spend that much on a car right now (we're heading abroad next year, so don't want to take a short-term bath on depreciation)), but all would be high mileage.

Got me thinking about the turbo failures. You seem to hear about them most on the 320d, a little on the 330d and not at all on the 525d. Just wondering, but is this because:

320d are bought as company cars and hence people rag them with no concern for the engine
330d are bought as an alternative to a 330i/Impreza/fast Audi etc. and hence they often get chipped, and again get ragged.
525d are bought by those not interested in the most rapid transport, and hence have an easier life/are treated with respect

Anyone have a view? Could make the 525d a v sensible (but still fun to drive) choice for the next year or so?

[roofer]

Turbo failures are more a result of BMW's ludicrous service intervals, and company car drivers coming straight off a motorway and switching off imo.

If you found one that had interim oil changes, that would be a possible better bet. Some engines like to eat their swirl flaps as well.

[te55gib]

timwatsham said:

525d are bought by those not interested in the most rapid transport, and hence have an easier life/are treated with respect

Anyone have a view? Could make the 525d a v sensible (but still fun to drive) choice for the next year or so?

I've just bought a 525d SE, and agree they don't seem to be bought to work hard, as there are more SE's than Sport spec cars out there. don't be fooled though, it goes well enough and is great to drive, especially using the manual sequential feature on the auto 'box. it does about 38 mpg in mixed driving, and never feels lacking in 'go'. a friend in the trade recommended the 525 for the same reasons as you're thinking, as I intend to take mine from 33,000 miles to about 135 - 140,000 miles in the next five years, without having any large outlay. If your budget allows, go through BMW, as you'll get a years warranty with the approved used scheme, or purchase an aftermarket warranty for piece of mind.