BMW M54B30 engine was created in 2000 on the basis of the M52TUB28 and was first installed on the restyled versions of the BMW E46 and BMW E39. In addition to the M54B30, the range of new motors includes the M54B22, M54B25 and S54B32.
As in the M52B28TU engine, the cylinder block is made of aluminum alloy, but using cast iron liners. In 2004, BMW presented the world with a new line of N52 engines, which smoothly began to replace the M54 line. In 2006, the M54B30 engine completely left the production line. But in 2006, on the basis of the M54, one of the most successful BMW N54 turbocharged engines was created, which was massively installed on cars with the 35i index.
Specifications
| Production years | 2000-2006 Munich Plant |
| Displacement, cc | 2979 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 231 |
| Torque output, Nm | 300 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 89.6 |
| Compression ratio | 10.2 |
| Features | DISA |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | double VANOS |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 6.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3/4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for E60 530i) — city — highway — combined |
14.0 7.0 9.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~330 000 |
| Weight, kg | ~130 |
Disadvantages of the M54B30 engine
- Excessive oil consumption. A similar disadvantage of the M52TU model. The reason is the piston rings, which are constantly coking. The elimination of the problem consists in their complete replacement. M52TUB28 rings will do. You also need to see the crankcase ventilation valve.
- Temperature rise. First of all, you need to look at the radiator for contamination. Air may also have accumulated in the cooling system. The thermostat and pump may still not work. The radiator cap should also be checked.
- Misfires in the ignition system. The breakdown is the same as on the M52 in the TU-modification. The reason is the coking of the hydraulic lifters. Replacement for new ones is required.
- Oiler lamp lit up. The reason is an oil pump or oil cup.
To the problems can be added the death of the camshaft status sensors, poor threads for mounting the cylinder block, sensitivity to oil quality, a low resource and a short-lived thermostat. Nevertheless, the M54 is more reliable than the M52. Therefore, the M54B30 is reliable, strong and well suited for swaping.
