Hello everyone,

I recently acquired a 2009 R57 JCW which I believe has an N14. I was told there was records on what maintenance was done, but I was not able to find anything N14 specific. So have to assume nothing preventative was done. I have reviewed the N14 FAQs and the preventative maintenance:

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...on-issues.html

Spark plugs, a walnut blast and... not sure what else is likely in my near future. I'm seeing some oil on the top of the valve cover, so I'm guessing at the very least, I should take advantage of any Black Friday sales to get a replacement valve cover.

Is there anything else that needs to be done at 70K? I was all set to put in a new timing chain, but someone else said that 70K seemed a bit early, and it's not making any kind of rattling noise at start up or idle. So maybe that can wait? In looking at the N14 maintenance list, is there a combo of "while you're in there" items that might be good? Like, if I'm putting in an oil catch can, should I just go ahead and do the thermostat since I'm pulling everything out to get near the thermostat anyway?

Any advise is appreciated, thanks!

 

When you pull the valve cover, you'll be able to asses the condition of the timing chain guides. If they still look intact, then you'll likely be fine for a while. If there is ANY kind of abnormal wear or cracks, get the timing kit replaced ASAP.

I would also get started on regular 5000 mile oil changes, and check the level every 2500 miles.