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.
M54 family: M54B22, M54B25, M54B30.
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 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW 3-Series E46 in 2000 – 2006;
- BMW 5-Series E39 in 2000 – 2004, 5-Series E60 in 2003 – 2005;
- BMW X5 E53 in 2000 – 2006;
- BMW Z3 E36/7 in 2000 – 2002;
- Wiesmann MF 30 in 2000 – 2002;
- BMW 7-Series E65 in 2002 – 2005;
- BMW Z4 E85 in 2002 – 2005;
- BMW X3 E83 in 2003 – 2006.
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.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW M54B30
How much power does the BMW M54B30 make?
The BMW M54B30 develops 231 hp and 300 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the BMW M54B30 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 6.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the BMW M54B30 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW M54B30 uses a timing chain.
Is the BMW M54B30 turbocharged?
No, the BMW M54B30 is naturally aspirated.
Does the BMW M54B30 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the BMW M54B30 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the BMW M54B30 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW M54B30 is ~330 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the BMW M54B30?
E60 530i: city 14.0, highway 7.0, combined 9.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the BMW M54B30 installed on?
BMW 3-Series E46 in 2000 - 2006; BMW 5-Series E39 in 2000 - 2004, 5-Series E60 in 2003 - 2005; BMW X5 E53 in 2000 - 2006; BMW Z3 E36/7 in 2000 - 2002; Wiesmann MF 30 in 2000 - 2002; BMW 7-Series E65 in 2002 - 2005 and 2 more (see the full list above).
