Original BMW Valve Cover Breather Hose with Sensor, N20/N26 Engines, for BMW 2, 3, 4, and 5 Series, X1, X3, X4, X5, and Z4 (2012–2018)

This Original BMW crankcase vent hose connects to the valve cover on N20 and N26 four-cylinder engines. It carries blow-by gases out of the crankcase on 2012–2018 BMW 2, 3, 4, and 5 Series models, the X1, X3, and X4, the X5 xDrive40e, and the Z4. Blow-by is the vapor that slips past the piston rings into the crankcase. Without a vent path, that pressure pushes on the engine seals until they fail. The hose is sold as a single piece and includes the sensor. BMW calls it the vent hose, and production of this number began in March 2011.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

On these cars, the engine code is what selects the hose, more than the body style. BMW's data ties this part to the N20 and N26 engines across a wide spread of chassis: the F22 and F23 2 Series, the F30, F31, and F34 GT 3 Series, the F32, F33, and F36 4 Series, and the F10 5 Series. It also covers the E84 X1, F25 X3, F26 X4, F15 X5, and E89 Z4. In a breather system, this line feeds pressurized crankcase air to the oil separator. There, oil vapor drains back to the engine and the rest of the air is burned through the intake.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (genuine part)
• Part number: 11-12-7-588-417
• BMW part name: vent hose
• Connects to: valve cover
• Includes: sensor
• Engine codes: N20 and N26
• Production start: March 2011
• Country of manufacture: France
• Sold as: one piece
• Warranty: 24 months

Installation & Tuning Notes

The plastic connectors and securing clips on breather hoses become brittle with heat and oil exposure. They can break during removal or during nearby service, so handle the old hose carefully.

Common Questions

What does a failed vent hose sound like?
A howling noise from under the intake manifold is a typical sign that this part has failed. Other signs include a check engine light for an intake air leak, rough running or misfires, and oil residue around the hose.

Why does this hose fail?
With age, it can clog with oil sludge, which limits how well it vents the crankcase. In colder climates, condensation inside it can also cause it to crack.

A genuine BMW breather hose keeps the N20 sealed and running the way the factory set it up.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the fitment table below to confirm the exact year, make, model, submodel, and any application notes before ordering. With over 20 years of parts and fitment experience, PMB Performance can match this to your VIN.