The BMW M52 B28 (286S1) is a 2,793 cc, inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features DOHC, 24-valve configuration with individual throttle bodies and electronic fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 1.7.2). This design enables high-revving performance with smooth power delivery, making it ideal for sport-oriented driving in BMW's executive lineup. Output was rated at 142 kW (193 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 280 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm.
Fitted primarily to the E36 3 Series and E39 5 Series, including the 328i and 528i variants, the M52 B28 was engineered for balanced performance and refinement in grand touring applications. Its emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and secondary air injection system, meeting Euro 2 standards across its production run. The engine's responsiveness and durability made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
One documented concern is premature crankshaft bearing wear, particularly in early production units before 1997. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 05 96, is attributed to inadequate lubrication grooving in the main bearing shells. In 1997, BMW revised the bearing design with improved oil grooves, significantly reducing failure rates in later models.
Production years 1995–2000 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The BMW M52 B28 (286S1) is a 2,793 cc inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and coupes (1995–2000). It combines dual overhead camshafts with individual throttle bodies to deliver high-revving performance and linear throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances sporty character with daily drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,793 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 70.0 mm | |
| Power output | 142 kW (193 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 1.7.2 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| 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 5W-30 or 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 172 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-six delivers smooth, high-revving performance ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent crankshaft bearing wear. BMW Longlife-98 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection for the main bearings. Extended idling or short trips can accelerate wear in pre-1997 engines with original-spec bearings. The Bosch Motronic ECU is robust but sensitive to poor grounding; maintaining clean chassis connections prevents drivability issues. Post-1997 models feature revised main bearings with improved oil grooves per BMW SIB 11 05 96, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-98 specification (BMW SIB 11 05 96). ACEA A2/B2 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1995–2000) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (BMW TIS Doc. A26750).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A26750, A26812, A26905, SIB 11 05 96
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020:2004 Internal Combustion Engine Power Measurement
The BMW M52 B28 (286S1) was used across BMW's E36/E39 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the E36 and revised cooling routing in the E39-and from 1998 the facelifted E36 LCI and E39 LCI adopted the M52TU variant with revised cylinder head and VANOS, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-right side of the engine block near the starter motor (BMW TIS A26905). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M52 series). Pre-1997 models have silver valve covers with "M52" branding; post-1998 M52TU units use black valve covers with "M52TU" marking. Critical differentiation from M50: M52 B28 uses individual throttle bodies and revised VANOS system. Service parts require production date verification - main bearings for engines before 08/1997 are incompatible with later units due to groove redesign (BMW SIB 11 05 96).
The M52 B28's primary reliability risk is premature crankshaft bearing wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 1997 noted a significant share of pre-1997 engines requiring main bearing replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show low emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended oil intervals and short-trip driving increase bearing stress, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1995-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M52B28.
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