The BMW M57 D30 is a 2,993 cc, inline-six turbo-diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2007. It was BMW's first high-pressure common-rail diesel engine, delivering smooth power delivery and strong low-end torque. Featuring a DOHC 24-valve layout and Bosch CRS 2000 common-rail injection system operating at up to 1,600 bar, it produced 135 kW (184 PS) in standard tune, with later variants reaching 160 kW (218 PS).
Fitted across key executive and performance models including the E39 5 Series, E53 X5, and E60 5 Series, the M57 D30 was engineered for long-distance refinement and responsive driving dynamics. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and oxidation catalysts, meeting Euro 3 standards from 1998 and Euro 4 from 2003 onward.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, particularly on early builds using the Bosch VP44 rotary pump. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 03 04, is often attributed to fuel contamination and inadequate filtration. In 2001, BMW transitioned to the Bosch CRS 2000 common-rail system, improving injector precision and reducing mechanical stress on the fuel system.
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 3 standards; 2003–2007 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The BMW M57 D30 is a 2,993 cc inline-six turbo-diesel engine engineered for executive and SUV platforms (1998–2007). It combines high-pressure common-rail injection with sequential turbocharging in higher-output versions to deliver strong low-RPM torque and highway refinement. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances performance with durability in long-haul applications.
| 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 | 135–160 kW (184–218 PS) | |
| Torque | 410–500 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2000 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (1998–2002); Euro 4 (2003–2007) | |
| Compression ratio | 17.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single or sequential twin-turbo (218 PS variants) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 222 kg |
The M57 D30 delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing and motorway cruising but requires consistent use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to protect the Bosch CRS 2000 fuel system. BMW Longlife-04 (5W-40) oil is critical for turbocharger and chain longevity. Fuel filters should be replaced every 30,000 km to prevent HPFP failure, especially on pre-2001 models with VP44 pumps. The sequential twin-turbo variants (218 PS) demand balanced boost control and regular EGR cleaning to maintain performance. All variants benefit from warm-up periods before heavy load to ensure oil circulation and turbo lubrication.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-04 (5W-40) specification (BMW SIB 11 03 04). Supersedes ACEA B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 1998–2002 models; Euro 4 applies to 2003–2007 units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 160 kW output requires EU3+ fuel quality and sequential turbo setup (BMW TIS Doc. A27612).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A27610, A27611, A27612, SIB 11 03 04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW M57 D30 was used across BMW's E39/E53/E60 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the E53 X5 and revised intake manifolds in the E60-and from 2003 the Euro 4-compliant calibration with updated EGR mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front-right side of the engine block near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A27610). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for diesel series). Pre-2001 models use a Bosch VP44 rotary fuel pump; post-2001 units feature the Bosch CRS 2000 common-rail system with rail pressure sensor. Critical differentiation from M57TÜ: Original M57 D30 lacks secondary air injection; M57TÜ includes air pump for Euro 4 compliance. Service parts require production date verification - fuel injectors and ECU maps vary significantly between Euro 3 and Euro 4 calibrations (BMW SIB 11 03 04).
The M57 D30's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure on pre-2001 models, with elevated incidence in vehicles using low-quality diesel. Internal BMW field reports from 2002 indicated a significant number of VP44 pump replacements before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel system neglect as a top cause of diesel engine failure in E39/E53 models. Extended service intervals and poor fuel quality increase stress on injection components, making fuel filtration and quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1998-2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M57D30.
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