Originally installed on the redesigned BMW E46 and E39, the BMW M54B30 engine was developed in 2000 based on the M52TUB28. The M54B22, M54B25, and S54B32 are among the new motors in addition to the M54B30.
Cast iron liners are used in the aluminum alloy cylinder block, just like in the M52B28TU engine. BMW introduced a new line of N52 engines to the world in 2004, which seamlessly started to replace the M54 line. The M54B30 engine was taken off the manufacturing line entirely in 2006. However, one of the most popular BMW N54 turbocharged engines was developed in 2006 based on the M54, and it was widely installed on vehicles with the 35i index.
Specifications
| Production years | 2000-2006 Munich Plant |
| Displacement, cc | 2979 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 231 |
| Torque output, Nm | 300 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 89.6 |
| Compression ratio | 10.2 |
| Features | DISA |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | double VANOS |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 6.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3/4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for E60 530i) — city — highway — combined |
14.0 7.0 9.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~330 000 |
| Weight, kg | ~130 |
Disadvantages of the M54B30 engine
Excessive use of oil. The M52TU model has a similar drawback. The piston rings, which are continuously coking, are the cause. Their total replacement is what eliminates the issue. You can use M52TUB28 rings. The crankcase ventilation valve must also be visible.
Temperature increase. You must first check for contamination in the radiator. It’s also possible that air built up in the cooling system. The pump and thermostat might still be broken. Additionally, the radiator cap needs to be examined.
Ignition system misfires. The breakdown is identical to that of the TU-modified M52. The hydraulic lifters’ coking is the cause. It is necessary to replace them with new ones.
The oiler lamp came on. An oil pump or oil cup is the cause.
A short-lived thermostat, low resources, sensitivity to oil quality, poor threads for mounting the cylinder block, and the death of the camshaft status sensors can all be added to the issues. However, compared to the M52, the M54 is more dependable. As a result, the M54B30 is robust, dependable, and ideal for swapping.