The BMW N53 B30 A is a 2,996 cc, inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2015. It featured dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24-valve configuration, and BMW's Valvetronic III system with double VANOS variable valve timing. In standard tune, it delivered 190 kW (258 PS) and 310 Nm of torque, offering smooth throttle response and refinement for mid-size and luxury applications.
Fitted to models including the E90 3 Series and E60 5 Series, the N53 B30 A was engineered for balanced driving dynamics and low emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, which could lead to lean-running conditions or engine stalling. This issue, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 01 10, is attributed to mechanical wear under sustained high load and inadequate lubrication. In 2010, BMW introduced a revised HPFP with improved internal components and enhanced oil flow design.
Production years 2006–2015 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2350).
The BMW N53 B30 A is a 2,996 cc inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size and luxury platforms (2006–2015). It combines Valvetronic III with double VANOS to deliver precise throttle control and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances efficiency with responsiveness in BMW's high-performance petrol strategy.
| 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 | 190 kW (258 PS) @ 6,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The N53 B30 A provides smooth, responsive performance ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals to prevent HPFP and Valvetronic system degradation. BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection for the direct injection system. Oil should be changed every 12,000 km or annually to maintain lubrication integrity. The high-pressure fuel system demands use of high-octane fuel (RON 98) to prevent pre-ignition and carbon buildup. Post-2010 models with revised HPFP show significantly improved durability; pre-2010 units should verify pump condition and consider preventative upgrades per BMW SIB 13 01 10.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 13 01 10). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all N53 B30 A models (2006–2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2350).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (RON 95–98).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A27030, A27031, A27032, SIB 13 01 10
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2350)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW N53 B30 A was used across BMW's E90/E60 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the E60 5 Series and revised intake manifolds in the E90 3 Series-and from 2010 the updated high-pressure fuel pump with improved internal components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front-right side of the engine block near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A27030). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for N53 series). Pre-2010 models have silver valve covers with "N53" branding; post-2010 units use black valve covers with "N53B30A" designation. Critical differentiation from N53TÜ: Original N53 B30 A lacks secondary air injection system; N53TÜ includes air pump for emissions. Service parts require production date verification - high-pressure fuel pumps before 09/2010 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (BMW SIB 13 01 10).
The N53 B30 A's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal BMW quality reports from 2012 indicated a significant number of pre-2010 units required pump replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel system faults as a top cause of drivability complaints in E90/E60 petrol models. Extended service intervals and use of low-octane fuel increase thermal stress, making fuel quality and schedule adherence critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2006-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2016). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N53B30A.
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