Chargepipe Failure

cehrl7 · 07-19-2018, 07:53 PM

So I was driving today to Costco and pop! I immediately lost power, and thought ohh crap it happened to me. So, I pulled into the parking lot and looked around the back and made sure I didn't run over anything. Then I popped the hood and saw the issue right away, CRACKED CHARGEPIPE...TOAST! Luckily, I have CPO warranty until 8/16; the tow was even covered. I have read about this happening to other members, and almost replaced mine with a VRSF when I changed the fmic. (Guess I should have done it). Needless to say I will be ordering a VRSF replacement now. So if anyone is on the fence about upgrading your p.o.s. BMW plastic chargepipe, don't delay, do it asap! Enjoy some pics being towed!

cfm56d7b · 07-19-2018, 07:57 PM

Sorry to see this happen to you. N55 charge pipes are indeed made of plastic. How many miles does your vehicle have? It's best to change the charge pipe before your mileage ...

cehrl7 · 07-19-2018, 07:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cfm56d7b

Sorry to see this happen to you. N55 charge pipes are indeed made of plastic. How many miles does your vehicle have? It's best to change the charge pipe before your mileage ...

It has 39,000 miles.

IK6SPEED · 07-19-2018, 07:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

Luckily, I have CPO warranty until 8/16; the tow was even covered.

8/16?

Mmm...ok

Polo08816 · 07-19-2018, 08:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

So I was driving today to Costco and pop! I immediately lost power, and thought ohh crap it happened to me. So, I pulled into the parking lot and looked around the back and made sure I didn't run over anything. Then I popped the hood and saw the issue right away, CRACKED CHARGEPIPE...TOAST! Luckily, I have CPO warranty until 8/16; the tow was even covered. I have read about this happening to other members, and almost replaced mine with a VRSF when I changed the fmic. (Guess I should have done it). Needless to say I will be ordering a VRSF replacement now. So if anyone is on the fence about upgrading your p.o.s. BMW plastic chargepipe, don't delay, do it asap! Enjoy some pics being towed!

Quote:

Originally Posted by cfm56d7b

Sorry to see this happen to you. N55 charge pipes are indeed made of plastic. How many miles does your vehicle have? It's best to change the charge pipe before your mileage ...

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

It has 39,000 miles.

Were you using an aftermarket tune (along with presumably an aftermarket FMIC)? I would not be surprised it only lasted 39,000 miles.

cehrl7 · 07-19-2018, 08:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Polo08816

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

So I was driving today to Costco and pop! I immediately lost power, and thought ohh crap it happened to me. So, I pulled into the parking lot and looked around the back and made sure I didn't run over anything. Then I popped the hood and saw the issue right away, CRACKED CHARGEPIPE...TOAST! Luckily, I have CPO warranty until 8/16; the tow was even covered. I have read about this happening to other members, and almost replaced mine with a VRSF when I changed the fmic. (Guess I should have done it). Needless to say I will be ordering a VRSF replacement now. So if anyone is on the fence about upgrading your p.o.s. BMW plastic chargepipe, don't delay, do it asap! Enjoy some pics being towed!

Quote:

Originally Posted by cfm56d7b

Sorry to see this happen to you. N55 charge pipes are indeed made of plastic. How many miles does your vehicle have? It's best to change the charge pipe before your mileage ...

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

It has 39,000 miles.

Were you using an aftermarket tune (along with presumably an aftermarket FMIC)? I would not be surprised it only lasted 39,000 miles.

Mhd stage 2+, I know I should have replaced it.

perryo91 · 07-19-2018, 08:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IK6SPEED

8/16?

Mmm...ok

LMAO

mike@x-ph.com · 07-19-2018, 10:16 PM

Glad everything was covered, time to get the VRSF charge pipe

rbol13 · 07-20-2018, 09:28 AM

Sorry to hear, getting my ER charge pipe installed tomorrow, these stories are too common...

then I have to worry about what tuning platform to use lol

cehrl7 · 07-20-2018, 09:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rbol13

Sorry to hear, getting my ER charge pipe installed tomorrow, these stories are too common...

then I have to worry about what tuning platform to use lol

It could have been much worse. I am going out of town next week, and it could have happened on the way to the airport. My BMW SA called this morning. They ordered a new chargepipe and it will be done on Monday. I asked them if they would install an aftermarket one and they said no. So I guess I will order the Vrsf and install it when I get back.

RoundelM3 · 07-20-2018, 10:01 AM

I just had the same thing happen to me, and although I have a BMW "Gold" extended warranty, I knew they'd just replace the plastic CP with another one. You would think they'd at least upgrade that part with a metal collar around the throttle body end like it has on the FMIC end. In any event, I subsequently ordered a VRSF CP "kit" that included a new throttle-body o-ring and a sturdier clip for that same end.

There are several videos and write-ups on how to do this replacement, all of which require either jacking up the car or putting it on a lift and removing the lower plastic undertray. Some recommend removing the FMIC, but it's possible to do the replacement without doing so. If you get a two-piece CP, the most important item is to be sure that the silicone "connector" for the upper and lower pieces is positioned properly such that the upper (larger, in the case of VRSF) end is well past the "bead" around the lower portion of the upper half and that the clamp is put on right behind that bead. Otherwise, the connector will slip off - ask me how I know. It is indeed difficult to push the throttle body end all the way on, but once it's far enough, the clip will hold it in place. Lower end is pretty simple. It's a two-person job, so have someone work with you.

After installation, it seems like the engine runs better - may be due to less turbulence in the CP from not having that "rippled" section in the old plastic unit.

FastF30 · 07-21-2018, 02:34 PM

running stage2+ on stock components? When you do change the CP... do yourself a favor and change the FMIC....

cehrl7 · 07-21-2018, 03:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FastF30

running stage2+ on stock components? When you do change the CP... do yourself a favor and change the FMIC....

I already have a VRSF HD stepped fmic along with a catless dp, that's why i am running stage 2+.

FastF30 · 07-21-2018, 03:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

I already have a VRSF HD stepped fmic along with a catless dp, that's why i am running stage 2+.

Oh... well good and kinda funny you already didn't change the cp... Hope others take all the advice on here and change the CP out right away... just changed mine..

So how you liking that stage2+? ... did you notice a big difference between the stock DP and Catless dp?

cehrl7 · 07-21-2018, 06:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FastF30

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

I already have a VRSF HD stepped fmic along with a catless dp, that's why i am running stage 2+.

Oh... well good and kinda funny you already didn't change the cp... Hope others take all the advice on here and change the CP out right away... just changed mine..

So how you liking that stage2+? ... did you notice a big difference between the stock DP and Catless dp?

There is a big difference between the stock cat and the cat less dp. The engine really breathes better along with a M2 intake. The only downside is the smell, but its not that bad. The performance and sound gains are definitely worth it. I was going to get an exhaust, but I think the sound now is perfect. It is quiet in comfort mode and cruising 75 on the highway, but it sounds fantastic in sport and sport +, loud enough for me. Stage 2+ 95 Octane ( I am running 3.5 gal E85 and the rest 93 Oct.) is really smooth and you can feel the power and torque gains over stage 2. I was originally going to buy a F80 M3, but needed an all wheel drive where I live. I feel with this tune, which is around 425 hp and 450 ft lbs torque, it performs like a stock M3 but with better all weather traction(obviously doesn't track and handle as well as the M3).

IK6SPEED · 07-21-2018, 08:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

They ordered a new chargepipe and it will be done on Monday. I asked them if they would install an aftermarket one and they said no. So I guess I will order the Vrsf and install it when I get back.

Comical that the one time you want an aftermarket part installed is the one time they will not do it. Even when the OEM is a $373.00 MSRP Part.

I’d tell them they can have the OEM Part for free and resale it to someone if they would just install the aftermarket you purchased.

FastF30 · 07-21-2018, 09:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IK6SPEED

Comical that the one time you want an aftermarket part installed is the one time they will not do it. Even when the OEM is a $373.00 MSRP Part.

I’d tell them they can have the OEM Part for free and resale it to someone if they would just install the aftermarket you purchased.

Warranty work has to go by the book... part for part... blah..blah..blah...

FastF30 · 07-21-2018, 09:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

it performs like a stock M3 but with better all weather traction(obviously doesn't track and handle as well as the M3).

that's the same reason I bought it... driving in real world conditions what ever they maybe ... I'll take awd all the way!...couldn't talk me out of it if you tried... I really might just go High Flow Cat then throw a PS2 on it and just keep the car for a long time unless if that new M3 is awd... probably will have to get it then...

JG_Coupe88 · 07-21-2018, 09:50 PM

I've been doing track days, autocross, on my F32 pushing 21psi on the stock charge pipe and I just finally installed my VRSF FMIC and CP at the same time last Wednesday . This happened to you with normal driving and it didn't even happen to me wow, I'm a lucky sob. Anyways I back vrsf, good one to go with.

IK6SPEED · 07-21-2018, 09:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FastF30

Quote:

Originally Posted by IK6SPEED

Comical that the one time you want an aftermarket part installed is the one time they will not do it. Even when the OEM is a $373.00 MSRP Part.

I’d tell them they can have the OEM Part for free and resale it to someone if they would just install the aftermarket you purchased.

Warranty work has to go by the book... part for part... blah..blah..blah...

Another time where it would pay to have a 3rd Party EW.

enjoythemusic · 07-22-2018, 06:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

Mhd stage 2+, I know I should have replaced it.

Yup, and kinda weird as the BMW dealer here handed me the replacement CP and installed my ER instead at no charge.

cehrl7 · 07-22-2018, 11:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by enjoythemusic

Quote:

Originally Posted by cehrl7

Mhd stage 2+, I know I should have replaced it.

Yup, and kinda weird as the BMW dealer here handed me the replacement CP and installed my ER instead at no charge.

I asked several times. I guess it's up to the SA at each dealer. He said they have to replace it with oem. Some dealers must bend their policies more than others!

07-19-2018, 07:53 PM	#1
cehrl7 Lieutenant 826 Rep 514 Posts Drives: 2015 BMW M3 Join Date: Jul 2017 Location: Auburn, IN iTrader: (1) Garage List 2011 BMW 335i [10.00] 2020 BMW X3 M40i [10.00] 2022 X3MC [10.00]	So I was driving today to Costco and pop! I immediately lost power, and thought ohh crap it happened to me. So, I pulled into the parking lot and looked around the back and made sure I didn't run over anything. Then I popped the hood and saw the issue right away, CRACKED CHARGEPIPE...TOAST! Luckily, I have CPO warranty until 8/16; the tow was even covered. I have read about this happening to other members, and almost replaced mine with a VRSF when I changed the fmic. (Guess I should have done it). Needless to say I will be ordering a VRSF replacement now. So if anyone is on the fence about upgrading your p.o.s. BMW plastic chargepipe, don't delay, do it asap! Enjoy some pics being towed! Attached Images __________________ 2022 X3M Competition Marina Bay Blue Metallic/Tartufu 2011 335i Black Sapphire Metallic/Gray
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07-19-2018, 07:57 PM	#2
cfm56d7b Lieutenant General 5878 Rep 10,254 Posts Drives: 2017 440i Gran Coupe & 2015 X5 Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: Orange County, CA iTrader: (2)	Sorry to see this happen to you. N55 charge pipes are indeed made of plastic. How many miles does your vehicle have? It's best to change the charge pipe before your mileage ...
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07-19-2018, 10:16 PM	#8
mike@x-ph.com BimmerPost Supporting Vendor 24155 Rep 190,724 Posts Drives: 07-335/12-328/18-M4/21-M4CP Join Date: Sep 2013 Location: Las Vegas iTrader: (23)	Glad everything was covered, time to get the VRSF charge pipe __________________ Check out our current sale by clicking on this link! https://x-ph.com/sale/ Phone number 702-494-9435
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07-20-2018, 09:28 AM	#9
rbol13 Private 24 Rep 63 Posts Drives: 2014 335i M Sport Join Date: Jan 2018 Location: _ iTrader: (0)	Sorry to hear, getting my ER charge pipe installed tomorrow, these stories are too common... then I have to worry about what tuning platform to use lol
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07-20-2018, 10:01 AM	#11
RoundelM3 Major General 1835 Rep 6,989 Posts Drives: 15 F80 M3, 22 G01 X3 30i Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Clayton, NC iTrader: (2) Garage List 2022 BMW X3 [9.83] 2015 BMW M3 [6.50]	I just had the same thing happen to me, and although I have a BMW "Gold" extended warranty, I knew they'd just replace the plastic CP with another one. You would think they'd at least upgrade that part with a metal collar around the throttle body end like it has on the FMIC end. In any event, I subsequently ordered a VRSF CP "kit" that included a new throttle-body o-ring and a sturdier clip for that same end. There are several videos and write-ups on how to do this replacement, all of which require either jacking up the car or putting it on a lift and removing the lower plastic undertray. Some recommend removing the FMIC, but it's possible to do the replacement without doing so. If you get a two-piece CP, the most important item is to be sure that the silicone "connector" for the upper and lower pieces is positioned properly such that the upper (larger, in the case of VRSF) end is well past the "bead" around the lower portion of the upper half and that the clamp is put on right behind that bead. Otherwise, the connector will slip off - ask me how I know. It is indeed difficult to push the throttle body end all the way on, but once it's far enough, the clip will hold it in place. Lower end is pretty simple. It's a two-person job, so have someone work with you. After installation, it seems like the engine runs better - may be due to less turbulence in the CP from not having that "rippled" section in the old plastic unit. __________________ 2015 F80 ///M3 Sedan 7DCT Tanzanite, 2022 X3 sDrive30i 8AT Brooklyn Grey
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07-21-2018, 02:34 PM	#12
FastF30 Lieutenant Colonel 521 Rep 1,288 Posts Drives: 2015 335i xdrive Msport Mbrake Join Date: Dec 2017 Location: Middle of the Road iTrader: (0) Garage List 2015 BMW 335i Xdrive [0.00]	running stage2+ on stock components? When you do change the CP... do yourself a favor and change the FMIC....
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07-21-2018, 09:50 PM	#19
JG_Coupe88 Second Lieutenant 256 Rep 245 Posts Drives: F10 M5, E36 M3 Join Date: Dec 2017 Location: San Diego, CA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2018 BMW M3 [0.00]	I've been doing track days, autocross, on my F32 pushing 21psi on the stock charge pipe and I just finally installed my VRSF FMIC and CP at the same time last Wednesday . This happened to you with normal driving and it didn't even happen to me wow, I'm a lucky sob. Anyways I back vrsf, good one to go with.
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