MT Auto Parts Blog | Expert Tips for BMW enthusiasts on BMW Parts, Accessories, Engines and More

  Photo by Sevak Khachatoorian on Unsplash The BMW N20 engine has a complicated legacy. Introduced in 2011 as a replacement for the naturally aspirated N52 six-cylinder, the N20 was BMW's first turbocharged four-cylinder in the modern era — a 2.0-litre unit designed to deliver six-cylinder performance with four-cylinder economy. In terms of outright capability, it largely delivered on that promise. In terms of long-term reliability, it developed a reputation that is difficult to ignore. If you own an N20-powered BMW or are considering buying one, this guide covers everything you need to know: what goes wrong, when it goes wrong, how serious each fault is, and what the repair costs look like in the UK. What Is the BMW N20 Engine? The N20 is a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine fitted across a wide range of BMW models from 2011 to approximately 2017, when it was progressively replaced by the B48. The N20B20A is the primary variant — the code you'll see in parts cata...

  Photo by Angelica Levshakowa on Unsplash The BMW X5 has been in production since 1999 and has gone through four distinct generations. It is one of the most successful premium SUVs ever made in the UK and Europe, and it is also one of the most owned BMWs in the country. That means plenty of used examples at a range of prices and plenty of owners navigating the maintenance costs that come with running one outside of warranty. This guide focuses on the E70 (2006–2013), F15 (2013–2018), and G05 (2018–present) generations, the cars that make up the majority of the UK's current X5 ownership base. We cover the most common problems by generation, which engines to prioritise or avoid, what the known faults cost to fix, and where second-hand BMW X5 parts fit into the ownership picture. Quick Generation Overview  E70 (2006–2013) – Second-generation X5. Stronger body than the E53 but more electronics. N52/N55 petrol and M57 diesel are the reliable engine choices. N63 V8 is the generati...

  Photo by Photo Boards on Unsplash BMW's reputation for driver engagement comes largely from its suspension. The geometry, the damper tune, the steering feedback — these are the things that separate a 3 Series from a comparable Vauxhall Astra, and BMW engineers spend considerable time getting them right. But that same focus on dynamics means the suspension works hard, and it wears. On higher-mileage cars, BMW suspension parts are among the most commonly replaced components, and in some cases, the most expensive. This guide covers everything: which suspension parts fail most frequently, what the symptoms are, how much repairs typically cost in the UK, and what you can do to reduce those costs by sourcing quality used suspension parts rather than paying dealer prices for new ones. How BMW Suspension Works — a Quick Overview BMW uses a double-wishbone or multi-link front suspension setup across most of its modern range, depending on the model. The F30/G20 3 Series uses a double-wish...