The BMW N52B30AF is a 2,996 cc, naturally aspirated V6 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2011. It features DOHC, 24-valve architecture and BMW's Valvetronic III variable valve lift system, delivering 170 kW (231 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 270 Nm of torque at 2,750 rpm. Valvetronic enables throttle-less air intake for smooth, linear throttle response and improved fuel efficiency.
Fitted primarily to the E90 330i, E60 530i, and E63 630i models, the N52B30AF was engineered for balanced performance and refinement in mid-to-high-range luxury applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and precise air-fuel control, allowing the engine to meet Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the Valvetronic eccentric shaft sensor, which can lead to erratic idle and engine stalling. This issue, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 04 03, is typically caused by heat exposure and electrical contact degradation. Later production revisions included updated sensor materials and shielding to improve longevity.
Production years 2006–2011 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683).
The BMW N52B30AF is a 2,996 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for mid-size and grand tourer models (2006–2011). It combines Valvetronic III variable valve lift with DOHC 24-valve architecture to deliver smooth, high-revving performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances driver engagement with everyday usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,996 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 170 kW (231 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multipoint fuel injection (ME 9.2 ECU) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 172 kg |
The Valvetronic III system enables throttle-less air intake for smooth, linear power delivery but requires strict adherence to 24-month or 24,000 km service intervals to prevent eccentric shaft sensor and motor wear. BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is essential to maintain hydraulic actuator integrity within the Valvetronic mechanism. Extended idling and short trips can accelerate sensor degradation due to thermal cycling. Fuel system cleanliness is critical—low-quality petrol can lead to injector coking and reduced valve lift precision. The ME 9.2 ECU is sensitive to battery voltage; always use a stable power supply during diagnostics. Pre-2008 models should verify sensor calibration per BMW SIB 11 04 03.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 04 03). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2006–2011 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output assumes premium unleaded (RON 98) fuel quality (BMW TIS Doc. A27021).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A27021, A27541, SIB 11 04 03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5683)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW N52B30AF was used across BMW's E6x and E9x platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the E63 and updated cooling routing in the E60—and from 2011 was succeeded by the N20B20 turbocharged engine in facelifted models, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (BMW TIS A27021). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for N52 series). Pre-2008 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2008 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from N53/N54: N52B30AF lacks a throttle body and features a distinctive Valvetronic motor on the cylinder head. Service parts require production date verification—eccentric shaft sensors before 09/2007 are incompatible with later units due to connector redesign (BMW SIB 11 04 03).
The N52B30AF's primary reliability risk is Valvetronic eccentric shaft sensor failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short-trip urban driving. Internal BMW quality reports from 2007 indicated a significant share of pre-2008 units required sensor replacement before 100,000 km, while UK VCA field data links erratic idle complaints in E90 330i models to sensor degradation. Frequent thermal cycling and voltage fluctuations increase wear on early-design sensors, making adherence to service intervals and use of stable electrical systems critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2006-2012) and UK VCA field reliability reports (2010-2016). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N52B30AF.
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