Re: E31 (archive)

Hi Gene,
The V12 Engine has been experienced by the majority to be basically a bullet-proof block and heads that is predicted to go beyond 300,000 mi if properly maintained and serviced without any major overhaul. Also under pedal to the metal conditions and hard use the V12 has proved it's durability. Even now with NOS being introduced to a stock engine by 'The Lone Ranger' Loren, the engine has continued to prove just how strong and durable it is.

Also, the V12 engine, has a history of having small problems with leaks, intake gaskets, Cam retention bolts, and a couple of other minor problems, but in actuality as compared to all other makes and models of any kind of engines, the V12 would have to rate among the top five in any catagory. It has electronic problems, but all cars do, that is equal across the board with any car.

The real problem with the V12 is that there are few people who know them or understand them and few mechanics, even BMW mechanics that truly know how to work on them properly. So you run into a lot of low character mechanics or dealers trying to get fat and make their house payment every time you drive into the shop. The V12 is a magnificent engine that years after it's design and introduction is still the engine to beat when properly set up. Anything that compares in other autos is usually much more expensive, harder to work on, maintain and almost always lacks any comperable style or comfort to speak of, let alone the absolute luxury of the E31. The BMW V12 or V8 E31 is truly a magnificent automobile that will go down in history as one of the truly incredible auto's of all time. IMHO.
Regards, Kurt

today i called around to find a good mechanic to do my pre purchase inspection, and three out of five flat out told me to look for another car. are the 12 cyclinder that much trouble?........ after reading through the archives, the repairs looked basic for cars of these age. i'm confused! the damn car looks so good but i don't want it to become a money pit. to all you V12ers out there: do you guys encounter problems regularly( every week or month)?

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