Are charge pipes needing with DPs?

[Padfan9]

I'm thinking about adding Vrsf downpipes to my 18 M3, should I also add aftermarket charge pipes? Is it really necessary if one wanted to go from stage 1 to stage 2 BM3?

[mark5092]

Not necessary, just as protection. I had the first set of ER black anodized charge pipes that were shipped in 2015 and installed them on my 2015 M4 that I had owned at the time. Ran VRSF dp’s and JB4 map2. Will be installing dp’s on my 18 M3 ZCP and going to stage 2 but no charge pipes this time.

[Groganrocket]

I have vrsf dps fit was perfect, but i haven’t changed my chargepipes yet debating on which ones to get.

[m4dbimmer]

I replace mine with aluminum ones as a preventative measure. OEM CP's tend to crack. Been happening since the N54.

[Padfan9]

Originally Posted by m4dbimmer

I replace mine with aluminum ones as a preventative measure. OEM CP's tend to crack. Been happening since the N54.

What's a good brand? If they crack, what's the worst case scenario?

[TakeOne]

Originally Posted by Padfan9

What's a good brand? If they crack, what's the worst case scenario?

Definitely not a requirement, but you'll see here that it's fairly common practice when people put on downpipes, they'll usually do charge pipes as well. Not specifically because of the hardware changes, but because when one puts on downpipes, they are typically going from stage 1 to 2, which increases boost, which increases the chances of blown charge pipes even further.
Most people are just going to tell you the brand they purchased is the best, but they all provide the same "protection", some just with added benefits. So I'll leave it to you to decide what cost and value are worth it to you.
If the stock ones crack or blow on you, you won't necessarily be stranded, you'll just go into limp mode with a CEL and will be gushing in unfiltered air making no power. Then you'll be frantically trying to buy a set, overnighting parts, and scheduling time to install them.
Further details on upgraded charge pipes for the S55 below

[SflBimmer8484]

I got 40k miles running stage 2 and full e85 tuning with my original stock charge pipes. The only failures I had within 3 years were 1 leaking intercooler and 1 injector got stuck open.

[mike@x-ph.com]

I recommend upgrading the charge pipe as soon as you tune your car. We offer VRSF, Burger Tuning, Injen and Evolution Racewerks charge pipes

[tom @ eas]

Originally Posted by Padfan9

I'm thinking about adding Vrsf downpipes to my 18 M3, should I also add aftermarket charge pipes? Is it really necessary if one wanted to go from stage 1 to stage 2 BM3?

Charge pipes are recommended if running more boost, as the OEM plastic ones are a weak point.

We carry VRSF, ER, ESS (silicone) and BP (titanium) to name a few.

[mark5092]

Originally Posted by Andrew@ActiveAutowerke

I got 40k miles running stage 2 and full e85 tuning with my original stock charge pipes. The only failures I had within 3 years were 1 leaking intercooler and 1 injector got stuck open.

[ProteinFart]

Ran 25k miles stage 2, zero issues.