BMW E60 5 Series - petrol and diesel engines. Technical data and vehicle information

The E60 models differed in that they used quite a lot of electronic solutions. One of the most characteristic was the use of the iDrive infotainment system, adaptive headlights and head-up display, as well as the E60 lane departure warning system. The petrol engines were equipped with a turbocharger and were the first variant with this solution in the history of the 5 series. Find out more about the engine in our article.

BMW E60 - gasoline engines

At the time of the introduction of the E60 car, only the engine model from the previous generation E39 was available - the M54 inline six. This was followed by the assembly of the 545i with the N62V8 engine, as well as the twin-turbocharged N46 l4, N52, N53, N54 l6, N62 V8 and S85 V10 engines. It should be noted that the twin turbo version of the N54 was only available in the North American market and was not distributed in Europe.

Recommended petrol variant - N52B30

The gasoline engine developed 258 hp. at 6600 rpm. and 300 Nm at 2500 rpm. The total volume of the unit was 2996 cm3, it was equipped with 6 in-line cylinders with four pistons each. Engine cylinder diameter 85 mm, piston stroke 88 mm with a compression ratio of 10.7.

The N52B30 uses a Multi-point indirect injection system - multi-point indirect injection. The naturally aspirated engine has a 6.5L oil tank and the recommended specification is 5W-30 and 5W-40 fluids, such as BMW Longlife-04. It also has a 10 liter coolant container.

Fuel consumption and performance

The engine with the designation N52B30 consumed 12.6 liters of gasoline per 100 km in the city and 6.6 liters per 100 km in the combined cycle. The drive accelerated the BMW 5 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds, and the top speed was 250 km/h. 

Characteristics of the design of the power unit

The engine is equipped with a Double-VANOS camshaft, as well as a lightweight aluminum and magnesium cylinder block, as well as an efficient crankshaft, lightweight pistons and connecting rods, and a new cylinder head.The last component had a variable valve timing system for intake and exhaust valves.

Injectors located in the head and cylinder block were also installed. It was also decided to use a DISA variable length intake manifold, as well as a Siemens MSV70 ECU.

Common problems in N52B30

During the operation of the N52B30 engine, it was necessary to prepare for specific malfunctions. The 2996 cc version had problems, among other things, with uneven idling or noisy operation. The reason is the incorrect design of the piston rings.

N52B30 engine tuning - ways to improve ICE performance

The version of the internal combustion engine can be modified and develops power up to 280-290 hp. It also depends on the version of the power unit. To do this, you can use a three-stage DISA intake manifold, as well as tune the ECU. Engine users also opt for a sports air filter and a more efficient exhaust system.

An effective treatment can also be the installation of the ARMA complex. This is a well-known and proven manufacturer, but using proven products from other suppliers is also a good choice. Kits include components such as mounting brackets, pulleys, separate accessory drive belt, high flow air filter, boost inlet, FMC fuel control computer, fuel injectors, wastegate and intercooler.

BMW E60 - diesel engines

At the beginning of the distribution of the E60 variety, as in the case of gasoline versions, only one diesel engine was available on the market - 530d with the M57 engine, known from the E39 5. Subsequently, the 535d and 525d were added to the lineup with the M57 l6 with a volume of 2.5 to 3.0 liters, as well as the M47 and N47 with a volume of 2.0 liters. 

Recommended diesel option - M57D30

The engine developed a power of 218 hp. at 4000 rpm. and 500 Nm at 2000 rpm. It was installed in the front of the car in a longitudinal position, and its full working volume was 2993 cm3. It had 6 cylinders in a row. They had a diameter of 84 mm and each had four pistons with a stroke of 90 mm.

The diesel engine uses a common rail system and a turbocharger. The motor also had an 8.25 liter oil tank, and the recommended agent was a specific agent of 5W-30 or 5W-40 density, such as BMW Longlife-04. The engine also included a 9.8 liter coolant tank.

Fuel consumption and performance

The M57D30 engine consumed 9.5 liters per 100 km in the city, 5.5 liters per 100 km on the highway and 6.9 liters per 100 km in the combined cycle. The diesel accelerated the BMW 5 Series to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and could accelerate the car to a maximum of 245 km/h.

Characteristics of the design of the power unit

The motor is based on a cast iron and rather heavy cylinder block. This provides good rigidity and low vibration, which contributes to a good work culture and stable operation of the drive unit. Thanks to the Common Rail system, the M57 was extremely dynamic and efficient.

As a result of design changes, the cast-iron block was replaced with aluminum, and a particulate filter (DPF) was added. It also featured an EGR valve and powertrain design features include a swirl flap in the intake manifold.

Common problems in N57D30

The first problems with engine operation may be associated with a swirl flap in the intake manifold. After a certain mileage, they can get into the cylinder, causing damage to the piston or head.

Malfunctions also occur with the valve o-ring, which could leak. The best solution was to remove the element. This does not adversely affect the operation of the unit, but affects the results of exhaust emissions. 

Another common problem is a faulty DPF filter, which is caused by poor thermostat resistance and failure. This is also affected by the good technical condition of the throttle valve in front of the EGR valve.

How to take care of the N57D30 engine?

Due to the high mileage of most of the models available on the market, there are some aspects that you should pay attention to - not only when it comes to your model, but also in the case of aftermarket bikes that you are going to buy. The first thing to do is to change the timing belt every 400 km. km. In operation, use the recommended oils and the highest quality fuel.

What to look for when buying a used E60 - engines in good technical condition

BMW models are deservedly considered durable cars. A good solution is the M54 units, which are distinguished by a fairly simple design, which translates into low operating and repair costs. It is also worth paying attention to options with the SMG system, because possible maintenance is associated with spending a large amount of money. Engine versions that work with an automatic transmission are also recommended. 

In terms of performance as well as stable operation, the well-maintained N52B30 and N57D30 are good choices. Both petrol and diesel drives are in good technical condition and will repay you with excellent performance and economy.