BMW N51/N52 Replacing Starter (Things You Should Know)

I'm going to use a particular BMW model here for reference purposes but the information should apply to any 2006-2013 model using the N51/N52 engines. I'll use the 2006 325xi. When you see a starter problem it sometimes isn't the starter. The starter bolts are torque to yield so are supposed to be replaced and not reused. They are also uncoated aluminum. If the starter has been replaced some aftermarket bolts are the wrong metal or coated. The coating can cause the starter to be poorly grounded. If you replace a starter on these, replace the bolts with aluminum uncoated bolts. 

The correct bolts are BMW Rein part 12410392577 and you should allow for the time to have the bolts shipped if you live in an area that has no readily available source nearby. The starter on this engine is under the intake manifold. Roughly a 3 hour job in the shop. 

To install the starter, tighten both bolts initially to 20Nm (roughly 15ft-lb), follow up with an additional 180 degree (1/2 turn) angle on the top (#1) bolt and an additional 90 degree (1/4 turn) angle on the bottom (#2) bolt. 

The parts will include a remanufactured starter, uncoated aluminum starter bolts and an intake manifold gasket set (seals). For reference, this job goes for just under $700 in shop. 

Kenny@ggauto.repair