BMW F10 520d: Operation and Maintenance in Real Conditions
Most BMW F10s on the market are gasoline-powered, but many car enthusiasts prefer diesel, considering it more reliable and economical. Using the example of the BMW F10 520d, which has been serviced by its owner at our workshop for over three years, we will explore whether diesel really is more economical in operation.
Features of Choosing Between Gasoline and Diesel Versions
Buyers often face the choice between a gasoline or diesel engine, considering both power and fuel economy. In Europe, diesel versions of the BMW F10 are more popular due to lower fuel consumption and higher reliability. In the U.S., however, gasoline versions dominate, as diesel cars are less in demand.
American versions of the F10 with gasoline engines are cheaper than those imported from Europe, but the gasoline models consume more fuel. Despite this, for some buyers, the savings on purchase compensate for the difference in fuel costs.
Service History of a Specific BMW F10 520d
This BMW F10 520d was imported with a mileage of 81,000 km and remained with its first owner in Ukraine until 112,000 km. During this time, regular maintenance and minor repairs to the suspension were carried out. From 112,000 km, the car was sold to a new owner, who has completed the following service cycle over the past 72,000 km:
1. Mileage 112,000 km — First service after purchase: replacement of all filters and engine oil — 230$.
Note: The diesel version requires regular fuel filter replacement, making the service slightly more expensive than the gasoline version.
2. Mileage 127,000 km — After 15,000 km, all filters, engine oil, and fuel filter replaced — 230$.
3. Mileage 130,000 km — Due to prolonged fogging of the headlight, the TMS block stopped working. Replacement of the block cost 190$.
4. Mileage 142,000 km — Full service: replacement of brake discs and pads all around, as well as hood shock absorbers — 690$.
5-6. Mileage 143,000 km — Suspension diagnostics and computer diagnostics — 30$.
7. Mileage 154,000 km — Full service with suspension diagnostics, removal, and installation of the engine protection — 215$.
8. Next visit — Replacement of transmission oil, engine mounts, rear axle oil, and rear axle seal — 675$.
9-10. Service with diagnostics — Two services with engine oil replacement and diagnostics — 450$.
11. Oil top-up — Purchase of 2 liters of original oil for top-up — 20$.
12. Next service — Replacement of oil and mounting element — 245$.
Summary
Over three and a half years of operation and 72,000 km of mileage, this BMW F10 520d has proven to be reliable and economical. On average, the owner drove around 25,000 km per year, and during this time, there were no major breakdowns, confirming the high reliability of the diesel version.
For more details, check out the YouTube video – https://youtu.be/ummV2PB9iuY?si=acECuf3x2KLN9L3m
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