[ravmeister]

I bought a 2011 335xi approx. 6 months ago and had it checked over pre-purchase. It was noted that there was a slight oil leak, but nothing that required immediate attention.

I've added around 2000 km to the clock and am now starting to see a potentially more substantial leak.
I have attached some photos below. Would you be able to advise on the following:
(i) Whether this leak is bad enough that it would need some attention soon?
(ii) Where this is likely to be stemming from? I understand that the most common leaks are usually the oil pan gasket, valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket?
(iii) How much the various fixes would cost (depending on which part(s) are leaking) if I were to go to a decent independent mechanic?

Thanks in advance for the advice/info!

[Phil325i]

Typical OFHG leak. Best to get it fixed because if it worsens it could put oil on the serpentine belt which, if it slips off the pulley, can be ingested into the engine via the front crankshaft oil seal...

Sorry I should probably translate if you're new to BMWs: Oil Filter Housing Gasket. Here's a 'How To' video:

[ravmeister]

Thanks a lot for the info. That's very helpful.
Seems the parts are likely to be fairly low cost, but may require a few hours of labor.
Would around $500 (USD) be a fairly accurate approximation for the fix at a decent auto shop?

Thanks

[Bimmer_Engineer]

Originally Posted by ravmeister

Thanks a lot for the info. That's very helpful.
Seems the parts are likely to be fairly low cost, but may require a few hours of labor.
Would around $500 (USD) be a fairly accurate approximation for the fix at a decent auto shop?

Thanks

Idk what the going rate at a shop is...but it’s a leisurely afternoon worth of work. Main things to be on the lookout for. On N54s there is a plastic coolant flange just below the housing that will likely disintegrate if you remove it...the n55 may have it as well. Also I know there’s some debate about the necessity of priming the oil system after doing this repair. If you take it to a shop make sure they’re aware of that one...

[whyzee125]

Oil filter housing gasket for sure. It's the cheapest leak to fix but the most dangerous if left alone. It will leak onto the belt and the belt could be sucked through the front main seal destroying your engine.

It's about $100 to DIY (gasket, bolts, coolant, oil) and about $550 at a shop.

[Luis561]

Very easy and cheap fix. If you do it yourself it's a good way to get to know how to work on your car

[OnlyGerman]

That needs to be fixed ASAP as it is the worst leak to leave unfixed