The BMW N52 B30 B is a 2,996 cc, inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2011. It features DOHC, 24-valve configuration, and BMW's Valvetronic III variable valve lift system, delivering 170 kW (231 PS) and 270 Nm of torque. Its smooth power delivery and high-RPM capability provide a refined driving experience typical of BMW's engine philosophy.
Fitted to the E60 5 Series, E90 3 Series, and F01 7 Series, the N52 B30 B was engineered for effortless cruising and strong acceleration in executive and luxury applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 4 certification across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain guides, particularly on units produced before 2008, due to material degradation under thermal cycling. This issue, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 02 07, can lead to chain slack and potential valve/piston contact. In 2008, BMW introduced revised nylon-reinforced guides with improved heat resistance to enhance durability.
All production years 2006–2011 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4568).
The BMW N52 B30 B is a 2,996 cc inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive and luxury platforms (2006–2011). It combines Valvetronic III variable valve lift with dual overhead camshafts to deliver smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,996 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 170 kW (231 PS) @ 6,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.2 sequential port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row timing chain | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The Valvetronic III system provides precise throttle control and improved fuel efficiency but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain chain longevity and sensor function. BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its thermal stability and protection under high-RPM operation. Carbon buildup on the Valvetronic eccentric shaft can cause erratic sensor readings; periodic inspection and cleaning are recommended. The Motronic ME7.2 system is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks, which can disrupt idle stability. Regular inspection of DISA valve and crankcase ventilation system is advised to maintain performance and prevent oil consumption.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 03 06). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2006–2011) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4568).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228.
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A27700, A27730, SIB 11 02 07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4568)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW N52 B30 B was used across BMW's E60, E90, and F01 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated Valvetronic on all units-and from 2011 the facelifted F01 LCI adopted the N53B30 variant with direct injection, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A27790). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for N52 series). All N52 B30 B units have silver valve covers with "N52" and "Valvetronic" branding. Critical differentiation from N53B30: Original N52 B30 B uses Motronic ME7.2 ECU with Valvetronic III, while N53B30 features direct injection and revised intake. Service parts require production date verification - timing chain guides before 06/2008 are prone to failure and should be replaced with post-revision units per BMW SIB 11 02 07.
The N52 B30 B's primary reliability risk is timing chain guide wear on pre-2008 builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature operation. Internal BMW reports from 2007 indicated a significant number of pre-2008 units requiring chain replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show drivability-related failures were common in neglected examples. Extended idling and aggressive driving increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance and use of correct oil critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2006–2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2017). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N52B30B.
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.
