The BMW M57D30T0 is a 2,993 cc, inline-six turbo-diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), common rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering 135 kW (184 PS) at 4,000 rpm and 410 Nm of torque at 2,000–2,500 rpm. This early variant of the M57 series introduced high-pressure common rail technology to BMW's diesel lineup, enabling precise fuel metering and reduced noise.
Fitted to models including the E39 5 Series, E38 7 Series, and E53 X5, the M57D30T0 was engineered for smooth long-distance cruising and strong low-end pulling power. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and an oxidation catalyst, allowing most units to meet Euro 3 standards, with select markets achieving enhanced emissions control through revised calibration.
One documented update occurred in 2002 when BMW transitioned to the M57D30T1 variant with revised injector design and ECU mapping to improve cold-start behaviour and reduce particulate emissions. This change, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 01 02, also introduced updated high-pressure fuel pump calibration for improved durability under sustained load conditions.
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 3 standards; select export models may have enhanced emissions compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The BMW M57D30T0 is a 2,993 cc inline-six turbo-diesel engineered for luxury sedans and SUVs (1998–2002). It combines Bosch CRS 1.0 common-rail injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-RPM torque and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances performance with early-generation diesel refinement 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 kW (184 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 2,000–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 1.0 common-rail (up to 1,350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, cast-iron block with aluminium head | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
| 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 1.0 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 all M57D30T0 production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 4-compliant variants exist for this model.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across model applications (BMW TIS Doc. A27100).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A27100, A27520, SIB 13 01 02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW M57D30T0 was used across BMW's E38/E39/E53 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the E53 and revised cooling routing in the E38-and from 2002 was replaced by the M57D30T1 variant with updated injectors and ECU 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). M57D30T0 units have silver valve covers with "M57" engraving and Bosch CRS 1.0 fuel system components. Critical differentiation from M57D30T1: M57D30T0 uses CRS 1.0 with CP1 high-pressure pump and 6-hole injectors; M57D30T1 uses CRS 2.0 with CP3 pump and 8-hole injectors. Service parts are not interchangeable between T0 and T1 variants due to fuel system revisions (BMW SIB 13 01 02).
The M57D30T0'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 2003 indicated a notable number of CRS 1.0 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 (1998-2002) and UK VCA failure statistics (2000-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M57D30T0.
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