Have this engine in my 2002 330ci. Love it. I got sharper Schrick camshafts and a proper tuning for it. Now it makes 0-100km/h in about 5.8 Seconds with the 5 Speed Manual. Great for a 18 years old car. Its such a fun and nimble car with a set of coilovers and Pu bushings
I have owned a number of e30s (absolutely bullet proof m20- zero issues ever) an m54 330i m-sport (a few very minimal repairs, but nothing major throughout 70k miles) and a 2007 n52 328xi awd wagon... literally ever possible repair imaginable in only 30k miles. Starter, valve cover gasket, transfer case, auto transmission (GM model), water pump, exploding plastic hose connectors, driveline bearings and rubber parts (this was actually all three), coils and many more. bmw doc’s advice/recommendations and warnings of common issues have been absolutely dead on. I love the n52 and it’s well sorted now (1,200 miles last week without the slightest hiccup), but it has been endless work. I do love wrenching of these cars so I’m very happy with the e91 (we also spend a lot of time in snow so awd is key). It’s also the first auto-trans bmw which is a massive disappointment but critical in San Francisco. Lastly my wife insisted that our next car be an auto so the e91/n52 has been an excellent choice- but needs dramatically more maintenance then the older models (not an issue if you do it yourself).
My E39 520i (M54B22) has now 425 000 km and runs smoother than ever, mostly on LPG btw. One issue with these engines which is VERY often overlooked and therefore rarely mentioned: 🤓 On the M54 and M52, the hydraulic lifters OFTEN clog due to heat and cause all kinds of engine issues and fault codes, incl. misfires (!) but NONE of these codes actually mention to check the hydraulic lifters - they always "blame" another part. Hence you end up replacing alot of parts which might still be good without getting to the root cause. Try HYDRAULIC LIFTER CLEANING FLUID first, this stuff is meant to do just that, and it often really works! This is the simplest fix for your M54 and M52 engine, and you can't really hurt the engine with cleaner lifters, even if there is another fault as well. Think of it as Vitamins for your engine! And please: Try it first, comment and thank me later 😉
A good friend gave me his X3, to my surprise it's the M54 Engine. and yeah I have shelled out 5K on labor and parts but she is running today, and I hope she can extend her life more, I would say I love to take care a car, so I am hoping no major issues will come. except those wear n tear parts.
I have the same engine, the most expensive maintenance for the car was the automatic transmission and suspensions and the cooling refresh. Then engine itself is reliable, oil change and dead coils. Oh and silky smooth engine and power at the top end.
I agree dr. Dean! I absolutely love those engines ! They are extremely reliable. Example I have one with 265k miles runs as smooth as day I bought it ! Only with normal maintenance done ..I’ll hate to see yours go bro !
BMW made an awesome volcano.Cooling system is so temperamental. I've replaced so many heads and head gaskets on those things.Threads pull right out of the block after so many heat cycles,have to time sert the block.I've done so many smoke test and replaced many valve cover gaskets.Vanos gets noisy,replaced many.Leaky oil housing seals,vanos oil lines,cooling system pipes,blown radiators,disappearing oil.Try changing that starter fast,not going to happen.If you can get it turned on they are great.
Just got my M54 a few days ago. The power is amazing and I did my oil service myself. I may need to consult a professional to do other maintenance if it breaks etc. nice video.
Same bro got my 04 e46 with 133k miles and did an oil change and topped off the coolant immediately and it’s ran perfect ever since, just drove to Tennessee and back no problems whatsoever
my e46 is the easiest car to work on I've ever owned. 200K miles and the engine is working perfectly. I've replaced a few cooling system parts, I did have to replace the valve cover, and am starting to have to replace some hydraulic hoses.
I personally thank you for this video Dean because I do have an M54 and I love it and I bought it for son when he was born for the safety ratings and of course it's still has a lot of power if needed and when I bought it at a hundred and ten and I've done nothing but changed every single gasket shocks struts links tie rods you name it's been replaced and I love this car so thank you for putting this video out
your welcome Kenny mate its not a issue mate I will be doing alot more of these videos as I know there is alot of you guys subscribed to me with this engine so I need to do more for you guys
@@BMWDoctor we thank you you are very knowledgeable and you respond to your subs and I personally love your channel and am thankful that I have it happy New Year
BMW Doctor i referenced your channel and Nathan's channel and it was relatively easy maintenance to do. Did all the coolant stuff too, so, yep, one sweet engine thanks to both of you 👍
How did you know you needed the evap parts replaced? My M54 evap parts are all factory, all the other usual stuff was changed incl fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, coolant system, gaskets, etc but why touch the evap system?
great gardengnome my fuel trims were sky high. Ran the smoke thru the system and the small rubber pipes, and one of the ccv pipes leaked. Valve cover leaked oil too. Now when i pull the oil filler cap off when the engine is running, i get an idle note change. Total fuel trims are now less than 5 % on each bank
This video convince myself not to buying an 540i e39, in order to choose one 530i 2002 with 78K Km,, and I'm glad because I've chosen a lifetime car, that hardly will be produced likewise. Cheers
@@BMWDoctori owned a bmw e60 with n52b30 engine .. problems after problems ( hpfp, injectors , huge carbon build up , valve cover gasket , electrical problems , fuel consumption higher than it should've been) . Gearbox was really good though , comfortable and sporty at the same time , design was just beautiful (had a Alpinweiss M-technik package inside and out) . I'm looking now for a e60/61 with a m54b25 engine , maybe it'll be better .
I love the m54 as it can take abuse, mine has been supercharged and running 7psi of boost for the last 15k miles, did a euro trip 4k miles, 2 track days, rev limiter every time i drive it and still going strong. Soon will increase the boost to 10 psi ;)
Great video. Im considering an m54b30 swap into a year 1990 e32 730i which has an m30b30 inline 6 cyl. so keeping the inline 6 cyl spirt alive but with a newer updated m54
The only big problem with these engines is that it is raising the the pressure in the coolant hoses to 2 bar, which puts the whole cooling system under stress. Thats why the hoses usually blow up and the car leaves you on the road. Other engines from VW, Audi etc usually pumps 1.2 bar in the cooling system.... Otherwise it is a good engine. For some reasons the M52TU is better.
i got a x3 04 with a 2.5 m54 manual, I drive about 300 miles every day, average of 1,800 miles per week with that car, got it with 158.000 miles now is 180000, I feels like it has so much more life left on it I wanna get it over 400000 lol
Hello i just bought E60 525i ( with Prins lpg ) 2004 and i think not only I ‘m asking myself do i need to put on a oil catch tank to my M54 and if it’s yes, there you go 1 idea 💡 for making another video with how to and what to do. Thank you, I’m watching you for small time but trying to watch your every single video! 👍 Keep it up! Greetings from Bulgaria 🇧🇬!
Thanks so much for these m54 videos. I've been looking at getting a z3 with an m54 and was worried about how expensive and difficult it would be to maintain. You've made me feel a lot better about it. Is there anything specific to a z3 that you think would need to be considered?
It should fly in a Z3 I've a Z4. 3.0I and absolutely love it man it's got plenty of get up go and is strong!! and as the man says.u couldn't ask for a smoother running engine
I know mate troublesome troublesome box and bound to go into limp mode like they all do kevin was thinking of getting a E53 for my channel but just won’t do well mate
hi Nathan hope your well mate , just wondering would you consider putting the engine type along with the engine code on your titles for us that dont know every bmw engine code , for example M54 2.8 i6 or N52 3.0 i6 or N54 3.0 tti6 or M57 3.0 d6 ect , just a thought but thanks for the vids man always appreciated thanks
The M54 is a great engine, but BMW has too much plastic under the hood and those parts tend to become fragile with the heat/cool cycles. The engine itself IS very dependable, my X5 is on 212,800 miles!!! Let me throw another "option" out there for us old timers out there... how about the M30...let's see the feedback on that :)
Regarding the M54 specifically, any comments on M54B25 vs M54B30? Also my M54 is newer on my NA Touring, my software is MS45.1 instead of MS43, and it's a pain with INPA because I have to select M56 DME instead of M54 to scan properly. Thus how would I upgrade the DME and module SW to the latest with this quirk, and not break anything?
yes what a engine mate good to see you comment mate aint seen you for a while bro how's the m3 holding up bro was thinking to get one for the channel mate but im switching back and forth between the M5 , M3 , N54 its so confusing so many cars so many viewers lol
BMW Doctor just seen this message man. Yeah I think a M car would do great for the channel as it’s what so many people aspire to especially the young people. My e92 M3 has been flawless now for since I got it 7 months ago but for your channel I think a imperfect one would be good to give you views while you use your skill to bring it back to its former glory. I’m a original spec guy but loads also love the mod aspect.
Alvin Ryan no mate I don’t listen to what PEOPLE THINK will be good to please them because they own that car I do what I want and buy what I want and I’m sure you will see that with my next car Nathan is selling the M5 once he’s finished the videos now he don’t want to keep it I’m coming away from bmw I’m re shaping this whole channel just wait And mate C63 AMG will destroy the M3 and M5 bro and you know that sorry to tell you mate M3 ain’t crap on the road same as the M5 i showed Nathan about that car and now even he is thinking all that car has is a V10 sound that’s it !! And top end power which is useless on normal day to day driving AMG C63 can be used daily on the roads constantly and smokes everything it goes near
What are your thoughts on the e38 M62 engine? I will be acquiring a 98 740il soon and wanted to know what to expect or what to be cautious about. Thanks.
Can't find e39 in 1:43, only the m5's or 520i's cop/taxi cars, 🙄 I got an, 🙏🏾m54 five speed, BMW at an auto show said it's getting rare🔥🔥🏁🏁 theft proof 🇺🇸👍, nobody wanted a stick, it's mostly highway, and I speed up to the limit, which is fun in a stick 😇, thanks for the heads up
So I have a bmw 09 n53 e90 se, got 99k on the clock and trying to figure out why it's lacking power, first gear pull just seems all wrong? It seems slow and just dragging along. Any ideas?
M52 is a better engine though. It doesn't have the oil burn issue of worn piston rings.. I have a m54 e60 and it's great but my m52 e46 never burnt any oil between changes.
Any videos on the N47 engine? Or any specific things I should watch for besides timing chain. Why did you change from runflats, does suspension have to be adjusted? Thinking of putting hankook ventus s1 evo2 onto my e60.
Mine keeps on overheating randomly. All new performance parts. Water pump, thermostat, radiator etc Properly burped. Head gasket leak test passed. The mechanical fan has been deleted. Highway speeds no problem. Is there an obvious answer? It gets hot quick when idling. Heater always blows hot.
Of course the s54 engine. That’s the M3 E46. An iconic bmw for enthusiasts. And brings many memories to many who’ve played need for speed. Truly an iconic car
M54 and e60 sounds amazing old school engine :) I agree choice between n52 and m54 is hard. For me n52 feel very very elastic thanks to its build but I never driven m54 so far yet. After watch this video I m sure that this engine is really good too as for a choice and how is it is to maintain it. As always another fantastic video. Thumbs up Dean and keep it going. Btw I got the k&n high flow filter and car sounds and respo ds much better than before. Could you drop your email bro so I can mail you number you asked last time? Cheers
yes mate sorry I never got back to you yesterday mate its bmwdoctordean at gmail dot com mate and yes mate you need to drive a m54 engine mate trust me these engines are completely different and this is why they say the inline 6 was one of the silky smooth engines even for today because of this engine and I love the m54 but I also love the n52 thats why its a hard choice for me man
Ye well I totally understand it what you say and I believe it as you have both of them. The way you describe how power comes on is very interesting. Who knows meaby in future I will try find e60 with thie m54. Well inline 6 is hyper smooth engines and good maintained one is barley noticeable working, and to be saying that I got proof of my parents when they get to my e90 after alnost all job done to it. The car was allready started my parents didn't even noticed that and get scared as they were thinking car got broken and rolling as the engine was soo quiet and smooth they didn't hear it at all. I will get you mailed tomorrow morning mate. Have a good night. Hope all enjoy this video as much as me. Thumbs up like always for you!!
Hey @bmwdoctor I need some guidance regarding an engine swap. So I bought a year 2000 323i with a blown motor and I later swapped it with a 2001 330i M54 motor and have run into Problems. The throttle body from the year 2000 is cable driven and the 2001 has the electric throttle body so it didn’t fit so we put in for the mean time a 1999 328i e46 throttle body which is cable driven also so it worked but now the car is having issues and feels like there’s not enough power and there’s codes popping up regarding the Problem : P0505 , P0412 I haven’t found any information on what to do with this kind of swap from the cable driven car conversion to the electric throttle body and the problems that arise. I just need it to pass smog here in California, USA
@@3ManFunny Just had this problem on my 530I e39! pulled codes ad it was saying throttle postions sensor but was actually fixed by repairing the butterfly valve. do you also sometimes have issues with Engine failsafe mode when starting the car? Was a very cheap fix costing me £50 all in
That’s correct I am the new 50S Kid on M54 that is correct as everyone has left the game for this engine and forgotten and gone to the new stuff Which I’m there to carry on for the people who have this engine The transmission on this car is good and reliable and very strong providing it isn’t hammered constantly and before the oil warms up around the gearbox as many people do that’s the main reason these gearboxes break I try to tell everyone you are not buying bmw for a performance car and I’m sure if your stupid enough to come and buy bmw for that your in the wrong market as these are not performance cars they are there to do a JOB get you from one side of town to the other in comfort if your wanting performance I would opt for M3 As these cars ain’t made for that and that’s why they go wrong there not tuned or anything for that that’s why when you step inside a bmw you have entered a gentleman’s interior and not a young boy interior That’s one thing a lot of people don’t even realise when buying these cars E39 , E46 that it’s a gentleman’s interior and will always be known for the car business men in suits lit there cigars and went off to business trips I can remember when these were released people was smoking the business men in these cars in a fiesta and they didn’t bother to show them anything as they couldn’t as these ain’t made for power they just was never for that
@@BMWDoctor I totally agree with you about the confort aspect and business man in a suit and shirt on a hanger appeal :) I've got an m-sport and it's sure got some performance but being abused so much over the years by many boy racer owners, I don't drive it like a numpty. Thanks for taking time out to reply to my comment, I don't get any replies from 50;skid or nathan on youtube anymore. I subscribed with you now for E46 issues as you are only a few of UK BMW techie on youtube with decent videos along with elbowgrease and cheap bmw fix guys.
Arnold Rimmer the Americans don’t reply mate because most think they know it all but mention m sport and they have to look up there ass as it’s something they don’t even get so there knowledge is limited ask them about any technical stuff and they will be the same they guys are DIYERS as the name suggests and they all follow others videos that’s how they do it that’s why I do me and stand out from them they think there great when reality is I wiped them off the map for this engine and N52 That’s why my videos are number one in the search and there’s struggle to be found
@@BMWDoctor Yeah, we get performance models so one step/mile in front all the time :) I like watching the engine rebuild videos and use them as a guide only, I got the bentley manual for more technical info. When the americans start using the metric system then they can be taken more seriously :)
Hey bro... I’m locked out of my 06 530ix wagon. The car is completely powered down. I believe the car has gone into Security mode. I attended to have a locksmith pick the door but no luck. I know I have to power up the car but I fresh out of ideas on how to do so because I can’t enter the car by key or any other way. HELP!
Yo dean!!! What’s the best engine to swap into a bmw e90 2007 manual chassi?? I want to do my a motor swap but can decide. I’m looking for a balance of all motor, power, and easy maintenance. I was thinking s65, e86 any advice?!?!
Hi mate New in your channel. Is m54 only a petrol engine or the also do a diesel version. And which model had this engine. Does 320d has this engine?. Do you think changing timing belt is easy in this engines I hear there are BMW in which they have to pull the engine out to change it. Thanks mate. And sorry for so many questions
Look closely at the camshaft position sensors, there is an o ring that is prone to leak oil that's hard to notice. You can change the o ring, but I changed out the intake sensor with the new updated factory sensor and wow noticed improved throttle response too.
the fucking vaccum leaks on this fucker though... Replaced everything between the maf and throttle body, cleaned throttle body, replaced throttle body gasket, intake boot, rebuilt disa and changed seals, cleaned idle air control valve, and I think I'm gonna have to replace the valve
You can make a cheap vacuum leak smoke tool.Can,cardboard, little baby oil,nylon hose,air pressure regulator and some imagination.You could have put the valve cover gasket wrong if you put one.
I've got 217K miles on my 03 Z4 (w 6 speed manual) and it runs amazing. Was well maintained. I had to do a few things when I got it (water pump intake boot belts pulleys) and I can see no reason why it can't easily go another 50K at least. Car looks like new essentially as well.
I have had a few engines apart.Looked like the engine was soaked in oil and grease from the outside,dirt,sand.Car looked like it had a million miles on it.When I removed the rods bearing and main bearings they looked like the were just installed, not one nick or scratch.They engines are well built if care for them,they will last.
I’ve recently bought a z4 and I understand it has the M54 and yep I love it’s turbine like power. My question is this, is the M54 engine in my Z4 the same as in the E46?
could anybody recommend me a youtube channel like this but for Volkswagens (yes I do now "Humble Mechanic", but he is located in US) , especially for diesel engines
Don't buy the n52 engine it sucks turbo issues and there is a plastic piece in the back of the engine if you forget to put it in it is a pain in the ass to get the plastic piece in
i loved my m54 to, but it has been acting up for a while. i changed alot of parts etc but still runs bad. i wonder what is wrong with mine... its vibrating at idle and is lacking power.
FunGames nope, i have done compression test, and cilinder leak test. Both are perfect. Cam sensors are new oem, new maff checked timing new ccv, new vcg.... there are no codes, starts every time just runs rough doesnt have power like it shoud. I am now running it with maff disconected when i start it now it sometimes runs realy bad and then smoothens out. with maff connected it starts up better but it just does not have the power and smoothnes it shoud have it lacks a lot of power in low revs, i have also noticed that it has more power / drives better when the engine is cold, when it is warm it gets realy anoying to drive. For example when you try to park with it and let the clutch come up it wil start to shake realy bad, (like clutch judder) and you need to rev the engine to park the car. normaly i coud just let the clutch slip a bit and you woud be abel to park it without a problem now it seems like i am someone thats just started driving... and yes dmf and cluth have also been changed. But did not do a thing just runs as bad as it di before.
@@JorisV1983 Could be vanos seals, could be icv needing un-clogged, could be ignition coils need changing, could be spark plugs need changing. With the engine choking and still get no codes, you probably need to upgrade to a cheap chinese inpa scanner.
FunGames it has all been done, and i have inpa and ista not one code. I even changed both wiring harneses from the coils and main harness only thing remaining is the harness that goed to the o2 sensors and reverse swithc on the transmission.
I hear this all the time mate but I have never ever come across this on ALL the M54 engines I had trust me whether that be in E53 , E39 E46 I aint ever encountered this issue and they have all been on high mileage the ones I got so I dont know if this is just the USA specs
@@BMWDoctor if you can spare the time to whip the intake manifold off i would highly recommend that any one undertaking it go that way and replace perished equally difficult to access vacuum lines other then that the m54 is kind of a dream to work on engine wise
Ya know I change oil and plugs and coils. But that's about it I don't like to Diddy shit shit around with motors much so if I gotta do this and that and this. To prevent this or that. Lol f it idk. I jus hope it holds up like I hear it's a. Cacker. But damm if I wanna tinker with this and that shit. So I hope I dont gotta do everything the Good Doctors mentioned 😅😮😏😎👌🏁🫣
I have driven My E39 (M54) since 2005. In total approx. 200.000 km. I had some small issues with thermostat, water pump and change of ignition coils, if you'dont see that as regular maintenance. It is still a pleasure to drive both on Autobahn speed or just causing around in more legal speeds. The engine and its character with its powertrain is why I still keep my Beemer and keep loving the car.
![[UA] Eternal Fire проти NAVI | EPL Season 20 Malta](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/chvlsDygrZM/mqdefault.jpg)
One of the best inline 6s bmw has ever made reliability is overall amazing just gotta watch out for the coolant system
I like those engines I have a E46 with 354000 miles on it with no problems
Hi which oil type and number do you use for engine ??
Good luck bro
No way man, mine has 215,000 and runs perfectly fine too these engines are very well designed and very well made
What. Proofs?
no oil consumption?
2003 E46 M54 B30 injection, stationwagon here. 400,000 kms and still running smooth and silent. applying lots of love
This engine will cover 3,4, hundred Thousand Miles with regular servicing
Have this engine in my 2002 330ci. Love it. I got sharper Schrick camshafts and a proper tuning for it. Now it makes 0-100km/h in about 5.8 Seconds with the 5 Speed Manual. Great for a 18 years old car. Its such a fun and nimble car with a set of coilovers and Pu bushings
can we have detail about ur tunning?
I own a E46 M54 2.2 manual convertible 2002...have it for 3 years now, 97000 miles.. love it..
Any problem with oil burning or something? Or any problems at all?
I want to buy this engine too but idk if is the best idea and i wanna know what i am buying, do you use the 5w40 oil? What do you think is the best?
I have owned a number of e30s (absolutely bullet proof m20- zero issues ever) an m54 330i m-sport (a few very minimal repairs, but nothing major throughout 70k miles) and a 2007 n52 328xi awd wagon... literally ever possible repair imaginable in only 30k miles.
Starter, valve cover gasket, transfer case, auto transmission (GM model), water pump, exploding plastic hose connectors, driveline bearings and rubber parts (this was actually all three), coils and many more. bmw doc’s advice/recommendations and warnings of common issues have been absolutely dead on. I love the n52 and it’s well sorted now (1,200 miles last week without the slightest hiccup), but it has been endless work. I do love wrenching of these cars so I’m very happy with the e91 (we also spend a lot of time in snow so awd is key). It’s also the first auto-trans bmw which is a massive disappointment but critical in San Francisco. Lastly my wife insisted that our next car be an auto so the e91/n52 has been an excellent choice- but needs dramatically more maintenance then the older models (not an issue if you do it yourself).
Great engine, very reliable
My E39 520i (M54B22) has now 425 000 km and runs smoother than ever, mostly on LPG btw. One issue with these engines which is VERY often overlooked and therefore rarely mentioned: 🤓 On the M54 and M52, the hydraulic lifters OFTEN clog due to heat and cause all kinds of engine issues and fault codes, incl. misfires (!) but NONE of these codes actually mention to check the hydraulic lifters - they always "blame" another part. Hence you end up replacing alot of parts which might still be good without getting to the root cause. Try HYDRAULIC LIFTER CLEANING FLUID first, this stuff is meant to do just that, and it often really works! This is the simplest fix for your M54 and M52 engine, and you can't really hurt the engine with cleaner lifters, even if there is another fault as well. Think of it as Vitamins for your engine! And please: Try it first, comment and thank me later 😉
Cleaning the lifters requires the cams and lots of other stuff to come out, not a very pleasant job for the average guy.
@@dohc1974 my point exactly! And that’s where the "hydraulic lifter cleaning fluid" comes in > no need to disassemble anything 😉
Going into 2024 still the legendary motor
A good friend gave me his X3, to my surprise it's the M54 Engine. and yeah I have shelled out 5K on labor and parts but she is running today, and I hope she can extend her life more, I would say I love to take care a car, so I am hoping no major issues will come. except those wear n tear parts.
I have the same engine, the most expensive maintenance for the car was the automatic transmission and suspensions and the cooling refresh. Then engine itself is reliable, oil change and dead coils. Oh and silky smooth engine and power at the top end.
Which auto did you have? Looking at a few semi autos with same engine
I love it, too. M54 2004 325i sport edition black. Cute car and I get complements. People know it has a 6 inline.
My 2003 Z4, 3.0 liter is about to roll 200,000 miles and still runs like a champ. Love that car.
I agree dr. Dean! I absolutely love those engines ! They are extremely reliable. Example I have one with 265k miles runs as smooth as day I bought it ! Only with normal maintenance done ..I’ll hate to see yours go bro !
i totaly agree . i have e39 with m54b25 and i love it! for me is a sweet spot. quite fast but very comfortable.
Me too! I'm currently working on cramming this beauty into my E30 chassis.
Thanks for the video 😁 converting my m43 with 210000 km to a m54b30 from a e53 x5 . Cant wait !
BMW made an awesome volcano.Cooling system is so temperamental. I've replaced so many heads and head gaskets on those things.Threads pull right out of the block after so many heat cycles,have to time sert the block.I've done so many smoke test and replaced many valve cover gaskets.Vanos gets noisy,replaced many.Leaky oil housing seals,vanos oil lines,cooling system pipes,blown radiators,disappearing oil.Try changing that starter fast,not going to happen.If you can get it turned on they are great.
Just got my M54 a few days ago. The power is amazing and I did my oil service myself. I may need to consult a professional to do other maintenance if it breaks etc. nice video.
Same bro got my 04 e46 with 133k miles and did an oil change and topped off the coolant immediately and it’s ran perfect ever since, just drove to Tennessee and back no problems whatsoever
my e46 is the easiest car to work on I've ever owned. 200K miles and the engine is working perfectly. I've replaced a few cooling system parts, I did have to replace the valve cover, and am starting to have to replace some hydraulic hoses.
Completely Agree with this video , own two e46's and i love it!
BimmerBoy same! @swedishbimmercrew on insta
m54 in my own opinion is the best engine bmw has ever made
Rani T M57 disagrees
@@TheultimateDIYmachine you have to illegally delete all the emissions stuff though
My old 2005 525. Have had it for 11 years now. 150k on the dash.
I personally thank you for this video Dean because I do have an M54 and I love it and I bought it for son when he was born for the safety ratings and of course it's still has a lot of power if needed and when I bought it at a hundred and ten and I've done nothing but changed every single gasket shocks struts links tie rods you name it's been replaced and I love this car so thank you for putting this video out
your welcome Kenny mate its not a issue mate I will be doing alot more of these videos as I know there is alot of you guys subscribed to me with this engine so I need to do more for you guys
@@BMWDoctor we thank you you are very knowledgeable and you respond to your subs and I personally love your channel and am thankful that I have it happy New Year
I have an E60 with the M54 it has over 120miles and drives like brand new, at this point I have never had to change any OEM part
My M54B30 engine still runs as smooth as silk. I have done all the evap stuff and it is now even better 👍
That’s the way mate that’s what I did on this one
BMW Doctor i referenced your channel and Nathan's channel and it was relatively easy maintenance to do. Did all the coolant stuff too, so, yep, one sweet engine thanks to both of you 👍
How did you know you needed the evap parts replaced? My M54 evap parts are all factory, all the other usual stuff was changed incl fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, coolant system, gaskets, etc but why touch the evap system?
great gardengnome my fuel trims were sky high. Ran the smoke thru the system and the small rubber pipes, and one of the ccv pipes leaked. Valve cover leaked oil too. Now when i pull the oil filler cap off when the engine is running, i get an idle note change. Total fuel trims are now less than 5 % on each bank
This video convince myself not to buying an 540i e39, in order to choose one 530i 2002 with 78K Km,, and I'm glad because I've chosen a lifetime car, that hardly will be produced likewise. Cheers
My 2005 bmw x3 m54 has 160,000miles running strong for now lol
I love the M54 because I'm now driving a car with an N52 engine.
I love both aswell that’s why as I always say it’s very very hard for me to pick both are different engines both have a different character about them
@@BMWDoctori owned a bmw e60 with n52b30 engine .. problems after problems ( hpfp, injectors , huge carbon build up , valve cover gasket , electrical problems , fuel consumption higher than it should've been) .
Gearbox was really good though , comfortable and sporty at the same time , design was just beautiful (had a Alpinweiss M-technik package inside and out) .
I'm looking now for a e60/61 with a m54b25 engine , maybe it'll be better .
I love the m54 as it can take abuse, mine has been supercharged and running 7psi of boost for the last 15k miles, did a euro trip 4k miles, 2 track days, rev limiter every time i drive it and still going strong. Soon will increase the boost to 10 psi ;)
Wow thats incredible :)
Stock internals ?? What all did you do to boost it? I’m look into boost my m45
Great video. Im considering an m54b30 swap into a year 1990 e32 730i which has an m30b30 inline 6 cyl. so keeping the inline 6 cyl spirt alive but with a newer updated m54
Swapped the m54b30 to my E34, Best setup
The only big problem with these engines is that it is raising the the pressure in the coolant hoses to 2 bar, which puts the whole cooling system under stress. Thats why the hoses usually blow up and the car leaves you on the road. Other engines from VW, Audi etc usually pumps 1.2 bar in the cooling system.... Otherwise it is a good engine. For some reasons the M52TU is better.
The best engine.My have 350000 km and still good condition
Another enjoyable, and informative, video, Dean!
thanks lance mate
i got a x3 04 with a 2.5 m54 manual, I drive about 300 miles every day, average of 1,800 miles per week with that car, got it with 158.000 miles now is 180000, I feels like it has so much more life left on it I wanna get it over 400000 lol
Hello i just bought E60 525i ( with Prins lpg ) 2004 and i think not only I ‘m asking myself do i need to put on a oil catch tank to my M54 and if it’s yes, there you go 1 idea 💡 for making another video with how to and what to do. Thank you, I’m watching you for small time but trying to watch your every single video! 👍 Keep it up! Greetings from Bulgaria 🇧🇬!
During the winter months the can fills up with oily water that will freeze solid on those sub freezing nights/mornings.
Thanks so much for these m54 videos. I've been looking at getting a z3 with an m54 and was worried about how expensive and difficult it would be to maintain. You've made me feel a lot better about it. Is there anything specific to a z3 that you think would need to be considered?
Just check the oil level regularly, they thirsty hehe
It should fly in a Z3 I've a Z4. 3.0I and absolutely love it man it's got plenty of get up go and is strong!! and as the man says.u couldn't ask for a smoother running engine
You've hopefully bought it already but I've got the m54 in my early z4 3.0. IT IS TOO GOOD, the noise is so so good
I’m doing my head gasket and custom cam m54
Love mine M54 . Yes the ccv and the starter will suck to replace. Mine runs fine. I've got the GM box on the X5. 👍👍
I know mate troublesome troublesome box and bound to go into limp mode like they all do kevin was thinking of getting a E53 for my channel but just won’t do well mate
Great engines and easy to maintain. The N52 will go down the same way in terms of parts costs at some point.
Excellent video mate 👍Have a great weekend
Cheers Michael mate you aswell mate
Sweet m54 video on my birthday
Your welcome and happy birthday
hi Nathan hope your well mate , just wondering would you consider putting the engine type along with the engine code on your titles for us that dont know every bmw engine code , for example M54 2.8 i6 or N52 3.0 i6 or N54 3.0 tti6 or M57 3.0 d6 ect , just a thought but thanks for the vids man always appreciated thanks
Uhhh...Nathan is another channel. I sub both they complement each other
I have e39 528i M52B28 with 420 000km and still run like a clock.
The M54 is a great engine, but BMW has too much plastic under the hood and those parts tend to become fragile with the heat/cool cycles. The engine itself IS very dependable, my X5 is on 212,800 miles!!! Let me throw another "option" out there for us old timers out there... how about the M30...let's see the feedback on that :)
Swap a metal valve cover if you can find one. Ahhh... the M30!
Fantastic info Dean I'm going to look for a E39 530i msport champagne edition & sell my E39 528i
Regarding the M54 specifically, any comments on M54B25 vs M54B30? Also my M54 is newer on my NA Touring, my software is MS45.1 instead of MS43, and it's a pain with INPA because I have to select M56 DME instead of M54 to scan properly. Thus how would I upgrade the DME and module SW to the latest with this quirk, and not break anything?
Once again brilliant content you are really helping me out with your knowledge 👍👍🔥
Your welcome mate I have a lot more to come brother trust me
Wish you was around corner from me I would gladly let you do my engine swap with me with your knowledge buddy
Keep in mind its a I6 cylinder which already is a win when it comes to maintenance
Great video! What a engine
yes what a engine mate good to see you comment mate aint seen you for a while bro how's the m3 holding up bro was thinking to get one for the channel mate but im switching back and forth between the M5 , M3 , N54 its so confusing so many cars so many viewers lol
BMW Doctor just seen this message man. Yeah I think a M car would do great for the channel as it’s what so many people aspire to especially the young people. My e92 M3 has been flawless now for since I got it 7 months ago but for your channel I think a imperfect one would be good to give you views while you use your skill to bring it back to its former glory. I’m a original spec guy but loads also love the mod aspect.
I’ve started watching Nathan’s channel again since he bought the M5 and 2002.
I’ve watched channels with massive views just because they have a M3 and are total dorks with no specialist knowledge ( road and race)
Alvin Ryan no mate I don’t listen to what PEOPLE THINK will be good to please them because they own that car I do what I want and buy what I want and I’m sure you will see that with my next car Nathan is selling the M5 once he’s finished the videos now he don’t want to keep it
I’m coming away from bmw I’m re shaping this whole channel just wait
And mate C63 AMG will destroy the M3 and M5 bro and you know that sorry to tell you mate M3 ain’t crap on the road same as the M5 i showed Nathan about that car and now even he is thinking all that car has is a V10 sound that’s it !! And top end power which is useless on normal day to day driving AMG C63 can be used daily on the roads constantly and smokes everything it goes near
You mentioned the gearboxes like to go wrong, are we talking about auto or manual boxes?
What are your thoughts on the e38 M62 engine? I will be acquiring a 98 740il soon and wanted to know what to expect or what to be cautious about. Thanks.
M54b30❤
My m54 is knocking mechanic said buy used engine or buy new car? What to do
Love mine but past few months it's been just dieing for no reason. No one can sus out what's wrong 😢
Can't find e39 in 1:43, only the m5's or 520i's cop/taxi cars, 🙄 I got an, 🙏🏾m54 five speed, BMW at an auto show said it's getting rare🔥🔥🏁🏁 theft proof 🇺🇸👍, nobody wanted a stick, it's mostly highway, and I speed up to the limit, which is fun in a stick 😇, thanks for the heads up
I love my M54, only thing I would love is just a tad lower mpg :).
You mean a tad higher mpg lol
@@wdbdb382 True, I was thinking in L/100km
Ahhh makes sense
Still have the original battery on mine. The longevity is probably to do with heat. The battery gets no heat in the trunk.
So I have a bmw 09 n53 e90 se, got 99k on the clock and trying to figure out why it's lacking power, first gear pull just seems all wrong? It seems slow and just dragging along. Any ideas?
M52 is a better engine though. It doesn't have the oil burn issue of worn piston rings.. I have a m54 e60 and it's great but my m52 e46 never burnt any oil between changes.
Any videos on the N47 engine? Or any specific things I should watch for besides timing chain.
Why did you change from runflats, does suspension have to be adjusted? Thinking of putting hankook ventus s1 evo2 onto my e60.
So I know The N55 is much worse, but is the N55 reliable?
Mine keeps on overheating randomly. All new performance parts. Water pump, thermostat, radiator etc Properly burped. Head gasket leak test passed. The mechanical fan has been deleted. Highway speeds no problem. Is there an obvious answer? It gets hot quick when idling. Heater always blows hot.
Which is a better Engine the M54 or the S54?
Of course the s54 engine. That’s the M3 E46. An iconic bmw for enthusiasts. And brings many memories to many who’ve played need for speed. Truly an iconic car
E60 m54b30 more than 300k km and still running
M54 and e60 sounds amazing old school engine :) I agree choice between n52 and m54 is hard. For me n52 feel very very elastic thanks to its build but I never driven m54 so far yet. After watch this video I m sure that this engine is really good too as for a choice and how is it is to maintain it. As always another fantastic video. Thumbs up Dean and keep it going.
Btw I got the k&n high flow filter and car sounds and respo ds much better than before. Could you drop your email bro so I can mail you number you asked last time? Cheers
yes mate sorry I never got back to you yesterday mate its bmwdoctordean at gmail dot com mate
and yes mate you need to drive a m54 engine mate trust me these engines are completely different and this is why they say the inline 6 was one of the silky smooth engines even for today because of this engine and I love the m54 but I also love the n52 thats why its a hard choice for me man
Ye well I totally understand it what you say and I believe it as you have both of them. The way you describe how power comes on is very interesting. Who knows meaby in future I will try find e60 with thie m54. Well inline 6 is hyper smooth engines and good maintained one is barley noticeable working, and to be saying that I got proof of my parents when they get to my e90 after alnost all job done to it. The car was allready started my parents didn't even noticed that and get scared as they were thinking car got broken and rolling as the engine was soo quiet and smooth they didn't hear it at all.
I will get you mailed tomorrow morning mate. Have a good night. Hope all enjoy this video as much as me. Thumbs up like always for you!!
66e 745li(n62) vs 66e 730li(m54) Please suggest me.
Hey @bmwdoctor I need some guidance regarding an engine swap. So I bought a year 2000 323i with a blown motor and I later swapped it with a 2001 330i M54 motor and have run into Problems. The throttle body from the year 2000 is cable driven and the 2001 has the electric throttle body so it didn’t fit so we put in for the mean time a 1999 328i e46 throttle body which is cable driven also so it worked but now the car is having issues and feels like there’s not enough power and there’s codes popping up regarding the Problem : P0505 , P0412 I haven’t found any information on what to do with this kind of swap from the cable driven car conversion to the electric throttle body and the problems that arise. I just need it to pass smog here in California, USA
What brand thermostat should I go for
Leaks everywhere even if is 2021
Yep I wouldnt have thought any less
M57
no no my friend M57 YUK YUK only petrol please love petrol or I will have to block you from channel
@@BMWDoctor I love both but the gas prices here forces me to choose the diesel life.
Love your channel btw :)
Any advice to eml light and limp mode after going over 4k rpm
maybe throttle pedal has a problems or throttle body remove the boot and see if the throttle body if it's dirty
@@3ManFunny Just had this problem on my 530I e39! pulled codes ad it was saying throttle postions sensor but was actually fixed by repairing the butterfly valve. do you also sometimes have issues with Engine failsafe mode when starting the car? Was a very cheap fix costing me £50 all in
Happy New Year Dean :)
Thanks mate and happy new year to you too
How good are the auto-transmissions on this engines ? I also hear you are now the new 50'skid but you don't like to get your hands dirty :)
That’s correct I am the new 50S Kid on M54 that is correct as everyone has left the game for this engine and forgotten and gone to the new stuff
Which I’m there to carry on for the people who have this engine
The transmission on this car is good and reliable and very strong providing it isn’t hammered constantly and before the oil warms up around the gearbox as many people do that’s the main reason these gearboxes break
I try to tell everyone you are not buying bmw for a performance car and I’m sure if your stupid enough to come and buy bmw for that your in the wrong market as these are not performance cars they are there to do a JOB get you from one side of town to the other in comfort if your wanting performance I would opt for M3
As these cars ain’t made for that and that’s why they go wrong there not tuned or anything for that that’s why when you step inside a bmw you have entered a gentleman’s interior and not a young boy interior
That’s one thing a lot of people don’t even realise when buying these cars E39 , E46 that it’s a gentleman’s interior and will always be known for the car business men in suits lit there cigars and went off to business trips
I can remember when these were released people was smoking the business men in these cars in a fiesta and they didn’t bother to show them anything as they couldn’t as these ain’t made for power they just was never for that
@@BMWDoctor I totally agree with you about the confort aspect and business man in a suit and shirt on a hanger appeal :) I've got an m-sport and it's sure got some performance but being abused so much over the years by many boy racer owners, I don't drive it like a numpty.
Thanks for taking time out to reply to my comment, I don't get any replies from 50;skid or nathan on youtube anymore. I subscribed with you now for E46 issues as you are only a few of UK BMW techie on youtube with decent videos along with elbowgrease and cheap bmw fix guys.
Arnold Rimmer the Americans don’t reply mate because most think they know it all but mention m sport and they have to look up there ass as it’s something they don’t even get so there knowledge is limited ask them about any technical stuff and they will be the same they guys are DIYERS as the name suggests and they all follow others videos that’s how they do it that’s why I do me and stand out from them they think there great when reality is I wiped them off the map for this engine and N52
That’s why my videos are number one in the search and there’s struggle to be found
@@BMWDoctor Yeah, we get performance models so one step/mile in front all the time :) I like watching the engine rebuild videos and use them as a guide only, I got the bentley manual for more technical info. When the americans start using the metric system then they can be taken more seriously :)
Hey bro... I’m locked out of my 06 530ix wagon. The car is completely powered down. I believe the car has gone into Security mode. I attended to have a locksmith pick the door but no luck. I know I have to power up the car but I fresh out of ideas on how to do so because I can’t enter the car by key or any other way. HELP!
mate climb under the car hook your leads up to your starter motor cable and it will open the locks
Doc... I appreciate ur fast response and suggestions.
Keep on being real!
Good Ole BMW eating up batteries...
Yo dean!!! What’s the best engine to swap into a bmw e90 2007 manual chassi?? I want to do my a motor swap but can decide. I’m looking for a balance of all motor, power, and easy maintenance. I was thinking s65, e86 any advice?!?!
Yes...
Buy a Camry.....
Do you recommend buying an e60 with the m54?
Could you please let me know exactly which part I need to bypass my built in amp? My speakers stopped getting sound
Find a junkyard Amp or get a new one from factory
Hi mate New in your channel. Is m54 only a petrol engine or the also do a diesel version. And which model had this engine. Does 320d has this engine?. Do you think changing timing belt is easy in this engines I hear there are BMW in which they have to pull the engine out to change it. Thanks mate. And sorry for so many questions
No belt..
Has almost an indestructible chain.
E60 with m54 200k runs and drives like new
I have M54 on an E53 that sweats oil, uses 98octane and LPG. Anything else to check rather than valve cover, sump and oil filter housing caskets?
many many many many many things to check
Look closely at the camshaft position sensors, there is an o ring that is prone to leak oil that's hard to notice. You can change the o ring, but I changed out the intake sensor with the new updated factory sensor and wow noticed improved throttle response too.
Anti Rästa Oil dipstick O-ring, Vanos...
The engine is very toyota like
the fucking vaccum leaks on this fucker though... Replaced everything between the maf and throttle body, cleaned throttle body, replaced throttle body gasket, intake boot, rebuilt disa and changed seals, cleaned idle air control valve, and I think I'm gonna have to replace the valve
You can make a cheap vacuum leak smoke tool.Can,cardboard, little baby oil,nylon hose,air pressure regulator and some imagination.You could have put the valve cover gasket wrong if you put one.
Is it possible to put it in an e90
No you cannot put this engine in a E90 but it comes fitted in E60 under in 2003-2005
subbed m8 :)
Nice one mate
How many miles can it last? I have a 2004
I've got 217K miles on my 03 Z4 (w 6 speed manual) and it runs amazing. Was well maintained. I had to do a few things when I got it (water pump intake boot belts pulleys) and I can see no reason why it can't easily go another 50K at least. Car looks like new essentially as well.
Here in Texas they can last 50-80k then explosion city with the Texas heat.Those cars were not made for Texas.
I have had a few engines apart.Looked like the engine was soaked in oil and grease from the outside,dirt,sand.Car looked like it had a million miles on it.When I removed the rods bearing and main bearings they looked like the were just installed, not one nick or scratch.They engines are well built if care for them,they will last.
I’ve recently bought a z4 and I understand it has the M54 and yep I love it’s turbine like power. My question is this, is the M54 engine in my Z4 the same as in the E46?
Howard Walker it will be the same engine
could anybody recommend me a youtube channel like this but for Volkswagens (yes I do now "Humble Mechanic", but he is located in US) , especially for diesel engines
Don't buy the n52 engine it sucks turbo issues and there is a plastic piece in the back of the engine if you forget to put it in it is a pain in the ass to get the plastic piece in
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 N52 does not have a turbo you idiot
Can a M54B25 supports turbocharge? Like 300hp?
You want to sell it to me mate
i loved my m54 to, but it has been acting up for a while. i changed alot of parts etc but still runs bad. i wonder what is wrong with mine... its vibrating at idle and is lacking power.
Maybe one or more cylinders are kaputz. What is wrong with yours is it doesn't sound like it has a proper INPA scanner.
FunGames nope, i have done compression test, and cilinder leak test. Both are perfect. Cam sensors are new oem, new maff checked timing new ccv, new vcg.... there are no codes, starts every time just runs rough doesnt have power like it shoud. I am now running it with maff disconected when i start it now it sometimes runs realy bad and then smoothens out. with maff connected it starts up better but it just does not have the power and smoothnes it shoud have it lacks a lot of power in low revs, i have also noticed that it has more power / drives better when the engine is cold, when it is warm it gets realy anoying to drive. For example when you try to park with it and let the clutch come up it wil start to shake realy bad, (like clutch judder) and you need to rev the engine to park the car. normaly i coud just let the clutch slip a bit and you woud be abel to park it without a problem now it seems like i am someone thats just started driving... and yes dmf and cluth have also been changed. But did not do a thing just runs as bad as it di before.
@@JorisV1983 Could be vanos seals, could be icv needing un-clogged, could be ignition coils need changing, could be spark plugs need changing. With the engine choking and still get no codes, you probably need to upgrade to a cheap chinese inpa scanner.
FunGames it has all been done, and i have inpa and ista not one code. I even changed both wiring harneses from the coils and main harness only thing remaining is the harness that goed to the o2 sensors and reverse swithc on the transmission.
I like the m54 but its flaw is the crappy piston oil rings. Likes to burn oil
I hear this all the time mate but I have never ever come across this on ALL the M54 engines I had trust me whether that be in E53 , E39 E46 I aint ever encountered this issue and they have all been on high mileage the ones I got so I dont know if this is just the USA specs
@@BMWDoctor Mine has 217K miles ('03 Z4) burns ZERO oil. I mean, zero. US car.
1st?
Good one mate 😁
@@BMWDoctor 🤜🤛
the pcv system is not easy and not easy to access though lol that bastid thing
Yes don’t I know it but that wouldn’t stop me doing it again N52 is 50x easier to change compared to this
@@BMWDoctor if you can spare the time to whip the intake manifold off i would highly recommend that any one undertaking it go that way and replace perished equally difficult to access vacuum lines other then that the m54 is kind of a dream to work on engine wise
Ya know I change oil and plugs and coils. But that's about it I don't like to Diddy shit shit around with motors much so if I gotta do this and that and this. To prevent this or that. Lol f it idk. I jus hope it holds up like I hear it's a. Cacker. But damm if I wanna tinker with this and that shit. So I hope I dont gotta do everything the Good Doctors mentioned 😅😮😏😎👌🏁🫣
How many miles can this engine get too, if treated correctly for a 2004 525i bmw?
I have driven My E39 (M54) since 2005. In total approx. 200.000 km. I had some small issues with thermostat, water pump and change of ignition coils, if you'dont see that as regular maintenance. It is still a pleasure to drive both on Autobahn speed or just causing around in more legal speeds. The engine and its character with its powertrain is why I still keep my Beemer and keep loving the car.