jayclough2611 Posted January 27, 2012 Report Share Posted January 27, 2012 Hi I have just recently noticed a slight smell of burning oil. So as you do i began checking the car over. I am not a mechanic but do have some experience repairing. I found oil had leeked down onto the exhaust from behind the Block. I removed the pollen filter and cover and the holder to get access to the engine. However after further inspection i found the leek to be comming from the back left side(as was stood facing front of car)of the engine. I could not see it so felt it cleaned it and re checked. The leek came back it is small and is coming from a cover of small size and rounded shape approx 4-6 inches (guess as can not see). I have also found a small amount of light brown foamy substance in oil fill cap and on dipstick when checking. Probably a stupid thing to do but i started the car with oil filler cap open and there was a loud sucking noise i dont know if that is relevant. I have recently had it serviced By BMW and noticed a slight drop in performance feels a little slugish. A family freind(mechanic) says it may be caused by the wrong oil Car has done 69800 miles 2003 facelift model. using Castrol Magnatec 5W30 Oil I have had the car for 4 years and i hope it has not seen its last days as it has been best car i have owned any help is grately appreciated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wash Posted January 28, 2012 Report Share Posted January 28, 2012 Probably the vacuum pump. It's on the back of the cylinder head and you can see on the left when you take off the pollen filter housing. Take a look at this: http://www.bimmerforums.co.uk/forum/f91/2002-e46-318i-n42-vacuum-pump-repair-t89903/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...