The BMW M52 B28 (286S2) is a 2,793 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 1998. It forms part of BMW's premium engine family, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and individual throttle bodies. With a peak output of 142 kW (193 PS) and 280 Nm of torque, it delivers smooth power delivery and refined performance ideal for luxury sedans.
Fitted to the E39 5 Series (528i) and E38 7 Series (728i), the M52 B28 was engineered for comfort-oriented driving with strong mid-range response and quiet operation. It utilises Bosch Motronic M5.2 engine management with sequential fuel injection and features BMW's VANOS (variable valve timing) on the intake camshaft, enabling improved low-end torque and emissions control while meeting Euro 2 emissions standards.
One documented service concern involves premature camshaft wear observed in early production units, particularly in engines built before mid-1996. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 05 96, was attributed to insufficient lubrication film stability under high-load conditions. BMW addressed this through revised camshaft metallurgy and updated oil specification requirements, transitioning to higher-detergent oils compliant with BMW Longlife-98.
Production years 1995–1996 meet Euro 2 standards; 1997–1998 models comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The BMW M52 B28 (286S2) is a 2,793 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for executive and luxury vehicle applications (1995–1998). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with single VANOS and individual throttle bodies to deliver linear power delivery and high-RPM smoothness. Designed to meet Euro 2 and later Euro 3 standards, it balances refinement with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,793 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 63.0 mm | |
| Power output | 142 kW (193 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic M5.2, sequential port injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1995–1996); Euro 3 (1997–1998) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-98 (SAE 10W-40 or 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 188 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 layout provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for relaxed cruising but demands consistent maintenance to preserve longevity. BMW Longlife-98 (10W-40 or 5W-30) oil is critical due to its thermal stability and anti-wear additives protecting the VANOS unit and camshafts. Early M52 B28 engines are prone to camshaft wear if incorrect oil is used or service intervals exceed 15,000 km. The single VANOS system improves mid-range torque but may develop solenoid clogging or seal leaks over time, requiring periodic cleaning or replacement. Coolant system integrity is essential—aluminium construction and rubber hoses degrade if coolant is not replaced every 2–3 years per BMW TIS A25701.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-98 specification (BMW SIB 11 05 96). Replaces earlier BMW 502.00 standard.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to pre-1997 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Euro 3 compliance confirmed for 1997–1998 production.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets without fuel quality dependency.
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A25701, A25913, SIB 11 05 96
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J2723 Engine Power Test Code
The BMW M52 B28 (286S2) was used across BMW's E39 and E38 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated air intake routing in the E39 sedan and compact exhaust manifold in the E38 limousine-and from 1996 the updated E39 LCI models adopted revised VANOS control and ignition coils, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side cylinder head near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A25806). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M52 series). Pre-1996 models have silver valve covers with round ignition coils; post-1996 LCI units use black valve covers with integrated coil packs. Critical differentiation from M52TU: Original M52 B28 uses Bosch Motronic M5.2 ECU with separate coil drivers, while M52TU (1998+) uses Siemens MS42 with direct ignition control. Service parts require production date verification—VANOS solenoids before 06/1996 are not interchangeable with later units due to thread specification changes (BMW SIB 11 05 96).
The M52 B28's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 1996 indicated a significant portion of pre-LCI engines showing lobe degradation before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links a notable share of emissions failures to aging VANOS units in city-driven examples. Extended oil intervals and low-quality lubricants increase wear rates, making correct oil specification and timely servicing critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1995-1999) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M52B28-286S2.
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