The BMW M67 D39 (398D1) is a 3,901 cc, twin-turbocharged V8 diesel engine produced between 2002 and 2005. It features DOHC, 32-valve configuration with common rail direct injection (Bosch CRS 2.0) and sequential variable geometry turbochargers. Rated at 175 kW (238 PS) and 560 Nm of torque, this engine delivers strong low-end pulling power ideal for luxury and performance applications.
Fitted primarily to the E53 X5 and E38 7 Series, the M67 D39 was engineered for refined performance and long-distance cruising efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and oxidation catalyst technology, meeting Euro 3 standards across its production run. Its robust V8 architecture provided smooth operation and high durability under sustained load.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in early production units before 2004. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 01 09, is attributed to internal cam follower wear under low lubricity fuel conditions. In 2004, BMW revised the HPFP internal components, improving longevity and reducing failure rates in later models.
Production years 2002–2005 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6783).
The BMW M67 D39 (398D1) is a 3,901 cc V8 twin-turbo diesel engineered for luxury SUVs and sedans (2002–2005). It combines common rail injection with sequential twin variable geometry turbochargers to deliver strong low-RPM torque and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances performance with improved fuel economy over its predecessor.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,901 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 175 kW (238 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 560 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Dual variable-geometry turbochargers (Garrett GT1749V x2, sequential) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-00 (SAE 5W-30 or 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 240 kg |
The twin-turbo V8 delivers strong low-end torque ideal for highway cruising but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent high-pressure fuel pump wear. BMW Longlife-00 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its lubricity and thermal stability protecting the HPFP. Extended idling or use of low-sulfur diesel below EN 590 standards accelerates pump wear in pre-2004 engines. The Bosch CRS 2.0 system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality; always use ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD). Post-2004 models feature revised HPFP internals per BMW SIB 13 01 09, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-00 specification (BMW SIB 11 01 03). ACEA A3/B3 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models (2002–2005) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6783).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (BMW TIS Doc. A29101).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A29101, A29141, A29171, A29201, SIB 13 01 09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6783)
DIN 70020:2004 Internal Combustion Engine Power Measurement
The BMW M67 D39 (398D1) was used across BMW's E53/E38 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the E53 and longer accessory drives in the E38-and from 2005 the facelifted E53 LCI adopted the M67TU variant with revised EGR system and updated turbocharger, 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 starter motor (BMW TIS A29201). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for M67 series). Pre-2004 models have silver valve covers with "M67" branding; post-2004 units use black valve covers with "M67TU" marking. Critical differentiation from M57: M67 D39 is a V8 with twin-turbo setup. Service parts require production date verification - fuel pumps for engines before 08/2004 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (BMW SIB 13 01 09).
The M67 D39's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 2004 noted a significant share of pre-2004 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records show low emissions-related failures due to robust EGR and catalyst design. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality increase pump stress, making fuel and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2002-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2004-2009). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M67D39.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with BMW or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
BMW Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialBMW documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
