The BMW N52 B30 BF is a 2,996 cc, naturally aspirated inline-six petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2011. It features DOHC, 24-valve configuration with Valvetronic III variable valve lift and double-VANOS variable valve timing. Rated at 160 kW (218 PS) and 270 Nm of torque, this engine delivers smooth, linear power delivery ideal for mid-size and executive applications.
Fitted primarily to the E90 3 Series and E60 5 Series, the N52 B30 BF was engineered for refined driving dynamics and responsive performance in BMW's core lineup. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and secondary air injection system, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run. Its all-aluminum construction and Valvetronic technology provided precise throttle control and reduced pumping losses.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units before 2008. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 03 08, is attributed to inadequate oil pressure delivery to the chain tensioner piston during cold starts. In 2008, BMW revised the oil gallery design, significantly reducing failure rates in later models.
Production years 2005–2011 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5230).
The BMW N52 B30 BF is a 2,996 cc inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size and executive models (2005–2011). It combines DOHC architecture with Valvetronic III variable valve lift and double-VANOS to deliver linear throttle response and improved efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances refinement with everyday drivability.
| 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 | 160 kW (218 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2,750–4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME 9.2 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 175 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-six delivers smooth, responsive performance ideal for everyday driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection for the upper chain guide. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates wear in pre-2008 engines with original-spec tensioners. The Bosch ME 9.2 ECU is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks; maintaining intake integrity prevents drivability issues. Post-2008 models feature revised oil galleries per BMW SIB 11 03 08, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 specification (BMW SIB 11 03 08). ACEA A3/B4 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all models (2005–2011) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5230).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (BMW TIS Doc. A34101).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34101, A34141, A34201, SIB 11 03 08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5230)
DIN 70020:2004 Internal Combustion Engine Power Measurement
The BMW N52 B30 BF was used across BMW's E90/E60 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the E60 and shorter accessory drives in the E90-and from 2009 the facelifted E90 LCI adopted the N53 variant with direct fuel injection, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-right side of the engine block near the starter motor (BMW TIS A34201). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for N52 series). Pre-2008 models have silver valve covers with "N52" branding; post-2008 units use black valve covers with "N52" marking. Critical differentiation from N53: N52 B30 BF uses port fuel injection and Valvetronic III; N53 uses direct injection and revised cylinder head. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners for engines before 08/2008 are incompatible with later units due to oil gallery redesign (BMW SIB 11 03 08).
The N52 B30 BF's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 2008 noted a significant share of pre-2008 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show low emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended oil intervals and short-trip driving increase chain stress, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2005-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N52B30BF.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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