The BMW M57 D30 (306D5) is a 2,993 cc, inline-six turbo-diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2004. It forms part of BMW's high-performance diesel lineup, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). With a peak output of 135 kW (184 PS) and 410 Nm of torque, it delivers strong low-end pulling power ideal for luxury sedans and SUVs.
Fitted to the E39 5 Series (530d), E53 X5 (X5 3.0d), and E65 7 Series (730d), the M57 D30 was engineered for refined performance and effortless highway cruising. It utilises Bosch EDC16 engine management with common rail direct injection (up to 1,600 bar) and features a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in certain markets, enabling compliance with Euro 3 emissions standards.
One documented service concern involves high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures observed in early production units, particularly in engines built before mid-2003. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 05 03, was attributed to inadequate lubrication film stability under extended service intervals. BMW addressed this through revised pump internals and updated oil specification requirements, transitioning to higher-detergent oils compliant with BMW Longlife-02.
Production years 2001–2003 meet Euro 3 standards; 2004 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The BMW M57 D30 (306D5) is a 2,993 cc inline-six turbo-diesel engineered for executive and luxury applications (2001–2004). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with Bosch common rail injection and a single VGT to deliver responsive throttle characteristics and high-RPM power. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 standards, it balances sporty performance with daily drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,993 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 135 kW (184 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 2,000–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (2001–2003); Euro 4 (2004) | |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT2256V) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-02 (SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 205 kg |
The inline-six turbo-diesel layout provides strong low-end torque ideal for relaxed cruising but demands consistent maintenance to preserve longevity. BMW Longlife-02 (5W-30 or 10W-40) oil is critical due to its thermal stability and anti-wear additives protecting the HPFP and turbocharger. Early M57 D30 engines are prone to fuel pump failure if incorrect oil is used or service intervals exceed 15,000 km. The single VGT improves mid-range response but may develop actuator clogging or vacuum 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 A25703.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-02 specification (BMW SIB 13 05 03). Replaces earlier BMW 502.00 standard.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2004 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681). Euro 4 compliance confirmed for 2004 production.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets without fuel quality dependency.
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A25703, A25915, SIB 13 05 03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
SAE International: J2723 Engine Power Test Code
The BMW M57 D30 (306D5) was used across BMW's E39, E53, and E65 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated air intake routing in the E39 sedan and compact exhaust manifold in the X5-and from 2003 the updated E65 LCI models adopted revised ECU calibration 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 A25808). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M57 series). Pre-2003 models have silver valve covers with round ignition coils; post-2003 LCI units use black valve covers with integrated coil packs. Critical differentiation from M57TU: Original M57 D30 uses Bosch EDC16 ECU with separate coil drivers, while M57TU (2004+) uses Siemens MSV70 with direct ignition control. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps before 06/2003 are not interchangeable with later units due to internal revisions (BMW SIB 13 05 03).
The M57 D30's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 2003 indicated a significant portion of pre-LCI engines showing pump degradation before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links a notable share of emissions failures to aging EGR 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 (2001-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2004-2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M57D30-306D5.
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