The BMW N57 D30 A is a 2,993 cc, inline — six turbo — diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features DOHC, 24 — valve configuration, and a twin — turbocharging system with sequential operation, delivering 180 kW (245 PS) and 540 Nm of torque. Its high — pressure common — rail injection and piezo injectors enable precise fuel delivery, supporting strong low — end pulling power and refined operation.
Fitted to the E70 X5, E71 X6, and F01 7 Series, the N57 D30 A was engineere…
All production years 2008–2013 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The BMW N57 D30 A is a 2,993 cc inline-six turbo-diesel engineered for luxury and SUV platforms (2008–2013). It combines high-pressure common-rail direct injection with a sequential twin-turbocharger system to deliver robust low-RPM torque and quiet operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,993 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (sequential) | |
Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
Power output | 180 kW (245 PS) @ 4,400 rpm | |
Torque | 540 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP3.4 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar), piezo injectors | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Sequential twin turbo (BorgWarner K14/K16) | |
Timing system | Double-row timing chain | |
Oil type | BMW Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 215 kg |
The BMW N57 D30 A was used across BMW's E70, E71, and F01 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated SCR on the F01 and revised intake manifolds on the E70-and from 2013 the facelifted F01 LCI adopted the N57TU variant with updated engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The N57 D30 A's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation on pre-2011 builds, with elevated incidence in regions with lower fuel quality. Internal BMW quality reports from 2010 indicated a significant number of CP3.4 pump failures before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel-related failures were common in neglected examples. Extended idling and use of non-compliant diesel increase pump stress, making fuel quality and oil maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2019). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The N57 D30 A offers strong torque and solid engineering, but pre-2011 models with the CP3.4 fuel pump are prone to premature wear. Later revisions with improved filtration significantly improve fuel system longevity. Regular oil changes, use of high-quality diesel (EN 590), and prompt attention to fuel pressure warnings are essential for reliability.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump degradation (especially pre-2011), cooling system failures (thermostat, water pump), vacuum leaks from intake hoses, and oil leaks from valve cover and rear main seal. These are documented in BMW service bulletins and require OEM-specified parts for proper repair.
The N57 D30 A was used in the E70 X5 xDrive35d (2008–2013), E71 X6 xDrive35d (2008–2012), and F01 7 Series 730d (2009–2012). It was replaced by the N57TU in 2013 with updated engine management and modular architecture. No cross-manufacturer applications are documented for this variant.
Yes. The N57 D30 A responds well to tuning. Stage 1 ECU remaps can gain ~30–50 kW safely, leveraging the robust inline-six architecture. Upgraded turbo, intercooler, and fuel system allow further gains. Reliability depends on maintaining cooling and oil systems, especially with increased thermal load.
In an E70 X5 xDrive35d, combined consumption is ~8.5 L/100km (33 mpg UK). City driving may see 10–12 L/100km (28–23 mpg), while highway cruising can achieve ~7.0 L/100km (40 mpg). Real-world figures depend on driving style and vehicle condition.
Yes. The N57 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, causing severe internal damage. Chain maintenance and tensioner inspection are critical, especially given the engine's torque characteristics and long service intervals.
BMW specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting BMW Longlife-04 spec. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km. Proper oil ensures adequate protection for camshafts, lifters, and the timing chain, especially under sustained load and high-temperature operation.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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BMW Official Site
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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)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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