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 the F80 M3, F82 M4, and G80/G82 M3/M4, the S55 B30 A was engineered for track-focused performance and dynamic handling in BMW's core M models. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 6 certification across all production years.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load operation, particularly on units produced before 2016. This issue, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 01 20, led to rail pressure faults and misfires. In 2016, BMW introduced a revised Bosch HPFP with improved internal coatings and enhanced oil cooling to increase durability.
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 twin-scroll turbo system provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for street and track use but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain chain and turbo longevity. BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its formulation supporting the timing chain and HPFP lubrication. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce wear on the high-pressure pump. Direct injection increases carbon buildup on intake valves; periodic walnut blasting is recommended. Pre-2016 models should have the HPFP upgrade per BMW SIB 13 01 20 if experiencing rail pressure faults. EGR system requires periodic cleaning to prevent flow restriction and DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 04 13). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all production years (2014–2022) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228.
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34000, A34110, SIB 13 01 20
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
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.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the starter motor (BMW TIS A34090). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('S' for S55 series). All S55 B30 A units have black valve covers with "S55" and "M Power" branding. Critical differentiation from S58: Original S55 B30 A uses Motronic MEVD17.2 ECU with analog throttle, while S58 features MSV90 with drive-by-wire. Service parts require production date verification - high-pressure pumps before 06/2016 are incompatible with later units per BMW SIB 13 01 20.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW S55B30A.
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