The BMW M57D30 is a 2,993 cc, inline-six turbo-diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2007. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), common rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering 135 kW (184 PS) in standard tune and up to 170 kW (231 PS) in higher-output variants, with torque outputs ranging from 410 Nm to 500 Nm. This engine was engineered for strong low-end torque and long-distance refinement in executive and luxury models.
Fitted to models including the E39 5 Series, E53 X5, and E38 7 Series, the M57D30 was designed for drivers seeking a balance of performance, towing capability, and motorway cruising comfort. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and oxidation catalysts, enabling Euro 3 compliance for pre-2000 models and Euro 4 for later builds depending on market.
One documented update occurred in 2003 when BMW revised the high-pressure fuel system and ECU calibration to support increased torque output and improved cold-start behaviour. This change, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 01 03, also introduced updated injector designs and modified EGR cooling to enhance durability under sustained load conditions.
Production years 1998–2000 meet Euro 3 standards; 2001–2007 models may have Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The BMW M57D30 is a 2,993 cc inline-six turbo-diesel engineered for luxury sedans and SUVs (1998–2007). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-RPM torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and select Euro 4) standards, it balances performance with durability in a robust cast-iron block construction.
| 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 | 135–170 kW (184–231 PS) | |
| Torque | 410–500 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2001); Euro 4 (post-2001, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, cast-iron block with aluminium head | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Double roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg |
The single VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing and highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and chain wear. BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its formulation protecting high-pressure fuel components and EGR system. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce soot accumulation in the crankcase. The Bosch CRS 2.0 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent injector coking and pump wear. EGR and oxidation catalyst systems require periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance and prevent limp-mode events, particularly in short-trip applications.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 04 01). Supersedes ACEA B6/B7 standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2001 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Some 2001-2007 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies by model application and market (BMW TIS Doc. A27100).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A27100, A27520, SIB 13 01 03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW M57D30 was used across BMW's E38/E39/E53 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Land Rover for transverse applications in the Discovery Series II and Freelander 2. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the E53 and revised cooling routing in the E38-and from 2003 the updated E39 LCI models adopted the M57TU variant with improved fuel calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A27100). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for M57 series). Pre-2003 units have silver valve covers with "M57" engraving; post-2003 M57TU units use black valve covers with updated ECU and injectors. Critical differentiation from M67: M57 uses inline-six configuration with single VGT turbo, while M67 is a V8 diesel with twin turbos. Service parts require production date verification—pre- and post-2003 high-pressure fuel components are not interchangeable due to CRS 2.0 system revisions (BMW SIB 13 01 03).
The M57D30's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump and injector degradation, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non-compliant diesel or extended service intervals. Internal BMW quality reports from 2005 indicated a notable number of CRS 2.0 system failures in non-European markets, while VCA field data shows improved longevity in UK-sourced examples due to fuel standards. Use of EN 590 diesel and timely maintenance make fuel system integrity critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1998-2007) and UK VCA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M57D30-D5.
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