Oil level sensor

[chris719]

How often do these go bad? Could I skip it during my rod bearing job at 93k miles and not regret it? The OE sensor is discontinued and it's either $200+ for the genuine or URO / Hamburg junk.

[Slideways]

How often do these go bad? Could I skip it during my rod bearing job at 93k miles and not regret it? The OE sensor is discontinued and it's either $200+ for the genuine or URO / Hamburg junk.

Yes, skip it. They can last 150k+. Certain parts like this that are easily accessible during an oil change can be replaced when they fail.

BTW, Z4 M uses a Temic sensor that is different from the Hella sensor used on the M3. There are plenty of spares out there since BMW used this sensor on many models.

[George Hill]

Just be careful if you go full on cleaning mode with the oil pan. Cleaning agents can degrade the level sensor and cause it to fail. I'd remove it and set aside if you are deep cleaning the oil pan. Do put a new seal on it though.