BMW M54B30 Engine (Design, Specs, Reliability)
Updated: May 25
The BMW M54B30 engine is an inline six cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 231 hp and 300 nm of torque.
M54 - Engine Family
B - Gasoline
30 - 3.0 Liter Displacement
It was developed in 2000 on the foundation of the M52TUB28 and was originally fitted in restyled BMW E46 and BMW E39 models.
The cylinder block, like that of the M52B28TU engine, is built of aluminium alloy, but with cast iron liners. BMW introduced the world to the N52 engine line in 2004, which gradually replaced the M54 line.
The M54B30 engine was phased out of manufacturing in 2006.
However, in 2006, one of the most successful BMW N54 turbocharged engines was produced on the basis of the M54, and it was widely fitted in vehicles with the 35i index.
Table of Contents:
Specs
Production years: 2000-2006 Munich Plant
Displacement: 2979 cc
Fuel system: injector
Power output: 231 hp
Torque output: 300 nm
Block: aluminum R6
Cylinder head: aluminum 24v
Bore: 84 mm
Stroke: 89.6 mm
Compression ratio: 10.2:1
Features: DISA
Hydraulic lifters: yes
Timing drive: chain
Phase regulator: double VANOS
Turbocharging: no
Recommended engine oil: 5W-30
Engine oil capacity: 6.5 litres
Fuel type: Petrol
Euro standards: EURO 3/4
Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for E60 530i): city 14, highway 7, combined 9.8
Engine lifespan: ~330 000 km
Engine weight: 130 kg
Problems & Reliability
Some issues present with these engines, such weak camshaft status sensors, weak threads for attaching the cylinder block, sensitivity to oil quality, and a short-lived thermostat are all concerns.
Nonetheless, the M54 outperforms the M52 in terms of dependability. As a result, the M54B30 is dependable and sturdy.
Excessive Oil Consumption
The reason behind this is because the piston rings are continually degrading. The solution to the issue is to completely replace them. M52TUB28 rings will suffice.
You should also inspect the crankcase ventilation valve which may be another source of oil consumption.
Overheating
First and foremost, inspect the radiator for debris. Air might have also collected in the cooling system. The thermostat and pump may be inoperative. The radiator cap should be examined as well.
Misfiring
In the TU-modification, the breakdown is the same as on the M52. The cause is blocking of the hydraulic lifters. It is necessary to replace old ones with new ones.
Oil Warning Light
The reason is usually an oil pump.
Engine Applications
Model | Production Years |
BMW 330i, 330xi, 330Ci (E46) | 2000-2006 |
BMW 530i (E39) | 2000-2004 |
BMW Z3 3.0i (E36/7 ) | 2000-2002 |
BMW 530i (E60) | 2003-2005 |
BMW Z4 3.0i (E85) | 2002-2005 |
BMW X3 3.0i (E83) | 2003-2006 |
BMW X5 3.0i (E53) | 2000-2006 |
BMW 730i, 730Li (E65/E66) | 2002–2005 |
Wiesmann MF 30 | 2000-2002 |
Images
