The BMW S55 B30 A is a 2,979 cc, inline — six twin — turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2022. It features DOHC, 24 — valve configuration, and BMW's closed — deck engine block with forged internals, delivering 317 kW (431 PS) in standard M3/M4 applications and up to 368 kW (500 PS) in Competition and G8x variants. Its twin — scroll turbochargers and water — to — air intercooling system enable rapid boost response and sustained high — RPM power delivery.
Fitted to t…
All production years 2014–2022 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The BMW S55 B30 A is a 2,979 cc inline-six twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2014–2022). It combines closed-deck construction with twin-scroll turbocharging to deliver rapid boost response and track-ready power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances extreme performance with evolving emissions requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,979 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 89.6 mm × 78.0 mm | |
Power output | 317–368 kW (431–500 PS) @ 5,500–7,300 rpm | |
Torque | 550–600 Nm @ 1,850–5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbochargers (Garrett), ball-bearing design | |
Timing system | Double-row timing chain | |
Oil type | BMW Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 205 kg |
The BMW S55 B30 A was used across BMW's F8x and G8x platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated charge pipe routing on the G80 and revised intake manifolds on the F82-and from 2023 the G80 LCI adopted the S58 engine with updated architecture, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The S55 B30 A's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on pre-2016 builds, with elevated incidence in high-load operation. Internal BMW quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant number of HDP6 pump failures before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel-related failures were common in neglected examples. Extended idling and aggressive driving increase pump stress, making oil and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2014–2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2023–2024). 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 S55 B30 A offers track-capable performance and solid engineering, but pre-2016 models with the HDP6 fuel pump are prone to premature wear. Later revisions with improved lubrication significantly improve fuel system longevity. Regular oil changes, use of high-octane petrol (EN 228), and prompt attention to fuel pressure warnings are essential for reliability.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump wear (especially pre-2016), cooling system failures (thermostat, water pump), intake valve carbon buildup, 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 S55 B30 A was used in the F80 M3 (2014–2018), F82 M4 (2014–2020), G80 M3 Competition (2020–2022), and G82 M4 Competition (2020–2022). It was replaced by the S58 in 2023 with updated engine management and modular architecture. No cross-manufacturer applications are documented for this variant.
Yes. The S55 B30 A responds well to tuning. Stage 1 ECU remaps can gain ~30–50 kW safely, leveraging the robust twin-turbo 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 F80 M3, combined consumption is ~9.5 L/100km (30 mpg UK). City driving may see 12–14 L/100km (24–20 mpg), while highway cruising can achieve ~7.5 L/100km (38 mpg). Real-world figures depend on driving style and vehicle condition.
Yes. The S55 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)
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
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