The 1.7-liter BMW M41 or M41D17 diesel engine was produced from 1994 to 2000 and was installed on only one model: the 3-Series E36, but in all of its many bodies. This power unit has 86% of common parts with the popular 6-cylinder M51 diesel engine.
Specifications
| Production years | 1994-2000 |
| Displacement, cc | 1665 |
| Fuel system | prechambers |
| Power output, hp | 90 |
| Torque output, Nm | 190 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 80 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 82.8 |
| Compression ratio | 22.0 |
| Features | intercooler |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | yes |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.0 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 1/2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for BMW 318tds 1996) — city — highway — combined |
8.8 5.2 6.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 168 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW 3-Series E36 in 1994 – 2000;
- BMW 3-Series Compact E46 in 1995 – 2000.
Disadvantages of the M41D17 engine
- This diesel engine is afraid of overheating, it causes cracks in the block head;
- The turbine has a low resource, after 150,000 km it usually already drives oil;
- Floating engine speeds and poor hot start hint at an early repair of the high-pressure fuel pump;
- The EGR valve clogs pretty quickly and the engine starts to get very stupid from this;
- The chain gas distribution mechanism may require replacement up to 200 thousand km.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW M41D17
How much power does the BMW M41D17 make?
The BMW M41D17 develops 90 hp and 190 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the BMW M41D17 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-40.
Does the BMW M41D17 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW M41D17 uses a timing chain.
Is the BMW M41D17 turbocharged?
Yes, the BMW M41D17 is turbocharged.
Does the BMW M41D17 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the BMW M41D17 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the BMW M41D17 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW M41D17 is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the BMW M41D17?
BMW 318tds 1996: city 8.8, highway 5.2, combined 6.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the BMW M41D17 installed on?
BMW 3-Series E36 in 1994 - 2000; BMW 3-Series Compact E46 in 1995 - 2000.
What are the common problems of the BMW M41D17?
This diesel engine is afraid of overheating, it causes cracks in the block head. The turbine has a low resource, after 150,000 km it usually already drives oil. All known problems.
