Description
BMW has an ongoing issue with oil separators freezing in cold weather if driving is done before the vehicle is fully warmed up. There is often a howling noise followed by numerous oil leaks. The crankcase breather valve is used to purge the oil vapor from the engine block into the valve cover. However, sometimes condensation can cause it to freeze, causing the entire oil separator system to fail, crack, and disintegrate.
Replace all the components of the oil separator system together to prevent damage to all the aspects of your engine. As long as you have everything off, you can rest assured that new parts will last and be reliable.
Don't forget to order a valve cover gasket to make your separator change easier.