Part number confusion on Ebay

[falanius]

Hey guys,
I'm looking to buy (for the second time) an engine valve cover.
I have a 2003 BMW 330ci convertible.

According to OEM, my part number is: 11127512839

So a few months ago, I went to Ebay and bought a used Valve Cover. According to the description it listed my make and model as working, but it was a Part # 11121432928 and DID NOT fit. I was super bummed and spent that morning taking it all apart and had to put it back together. Total bummer.

So now I'm back looking to get one, used they are over $400, so I REALLY need to find a used one. Now on ebay I see a ton of #11127512840 which looks like the same, but I'm just judging by the pictures online. The 11127512839s that I see cost a lot more. I also am seing this phrase: Interchange Part Number. Which I'm not sure what that means.

So, can I get a 11127512840, or do I play it safe with only getting 11127512839?

Also, is ebay NOT the place to go for parts?

Thanks!
Andy

[All2kool]

Use RealOem.com to find your part number and then use BMW PNPC to find the best price. Amazon and EBay are good options too but check the seller feedback.

[dworthy]

P/N 11127512839 covers all the M-54 engines from 09/2002 or YM-03, so you can use a 2,5l from a 2003 525i E-39.

So what that means is there is plenty of options out there just look here: http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/part?id=EN33-USA-10-2004-E46-BMW-325i&mg=11&sg=15&diagId=11_2172&q=11127512839

[All2kool]

The correct part number is 11127512839. Part #11121432928 will fit my 5/29/2002 produced car.


https://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-1...6e53e60e83e85/
https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-...r/11127512839/


Aftermarket options:


http://www.oembimmerparts.com/BMW-E4...7512839uro.htm
https://www.amazon.com/APA-111275128.../dp/B06X3T8P1Q

[flyfishvt]

Never use any of the part number guides on eBay to tell if that part will fit in your car. They are notorious for being inaccurate. Find the correct part number and search according to that number. Ebay sellers tend to use generic pics in their listings. You can't always rely on them. If you find what appears to be the correct listing but something doesn't feel right then don't buy it. Nothing wrong with buying parts off eBay but you have to be extra cautious. If it's a situation where you absolutely must get the correct part and you aren't sure about anything on eBay then it's probably a good idea to get it from a parts supplier like Pelican or ECS. At least you can call them and speak to a live person

[MIKYZZ4]

FleBay is basically a fleamarket-buy used, as is, at your own risk!

[Thaniel]

The way I understood it was the older versions had coils that were held
down to the valve cover by bolts. The newer ones didn't have bolts. Should be able
to tell by the pictures.

ive got a couple of the older style I could sell but I think you need the newer style.