Yes, I have seen it a couple of times, it is unusual, but not rare. My old 528i now has over 350k on it and no problems with it though so I don't know if it is abuse or just the luck of the draw. I have heard there is a fix that is much easier before it goes, don't know if it is too late though, might want to check the archives. But congrats on your new aquisition. Mike W.