Ultimate BMW Engine Showdown: N52 vs N54 vs N55 - Which One Should You Choose? | Comparison & Review

In today's video, we'll be comparing the popular N52, N54 and N55 engines, explaining each of their strengths and weaknesses, and diving into performance capabilities and overall reliability. Each of these engines is unique in its own way and brings something special to the table.
(B-roll video credits go to all respective owners. I kept their KZbin watermarks in the video so they could be found. This video educates the entire BMW community and serves a greater good, so I do not claim ownership of the clips I borrowed to make this video.)
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[@roaksroaks9519]

N52 for reliability, N54 for power and N55 for a decent mix of both

[@kazkenton]

Facts my girl n52 got 232k miles 😭

[@JusGoody]

What are your thoughts on the B58?

[@IzzyE9X]

working on a B58 video 🔜

[@IHopKori]

@@kazkentonsheesh

[@Spirited_Driver]

@Jus_Goody the b58 is starting to have thier issues as well! The B58 is the new n54, sort of.. Keep in mind the N54 has been around for almost 20 years already !!!! The b58 is young, but all engines will have issues over 20 years.

[@OpressivePeach]

300k mile N54 in a E90 335i, love it, do your maintainince.

[@IzzyE9X]

that’s amazing! do you have it tuned or running factory power?

[@luluhus1]

N54 almost 200k miles.

[@AnthonyGonzalez-zy5zm]

That’s awesome to hear. I never actually see high power high milage BMWs on KZbin other then that 335i on mishas page. It makes me happy to know I’ll have my 75k mile n54 for a long time😆

[@GiveItGas69420]

8 waterpumps later… I own one trust me I know

[@ricardoaviles6172]

I have a 2008 135i convertible with 153k miles and no issues :) just do your maintenance that's all and yeah if you don't work on cars probably is gonna be expensive but parts aren't expensive but the labor it is but if you do it yourself you'll save money and also you know your car is in good shape

[@x5e70_legend]

I own a 2009 X5 N52 and i freaking love it.... all i had to do was replace the valve cover and valve cover gaskets, manifold gaskets, O2 sensors, VVT Solenoids, Transmission pan and filter, new belt, lower radiator hose, AC line because my old belt broke and snapped the rubber part of the line. And regular maintenance stuff...This is the best vehicle with currently 241,000 miles and still going

[@IzzyE9X]

I’m also at 241K miles!

[@mtbridingog9083]

Got a 08 about to supercharge it sooner or later .. got to do my crankcase position sensor in the morning and replace my ccv valve on the valve cover and I’m good to go .. I’m at 178,000 miles roughly .. I hate this damn 6 speed zf transmission it sucks lol this n52 would shine so much better if we had the zf 8 speed transmission like the older 2011 35i models got

[@hubcityprince310]

@@mtbridingog9083facts

@@mtbridingog9083simply get a Stage 3 xhp tune

[@anthony7228]

You just described the cost of an additional car in just your maintenance repairs.

[@roysampson182]

Love my M135i. Running a stage 2+ 400hp N55 in a hatchback.

[@Chenzooo]

While still getting 1/16km op the freeway.

[@M_is_for_Monty]

Those hatches are the dream. So bad they never made it to America.

[@alextomov9515]

Have the same car and tune. It's a blast to drive and sounds amazing. Arguably the best sounding bmw I6 engine due to only having one turbo. However Definitely have to he careful in the wet considering it has an open differential

[@nelsonx4235]

come on dawg N52...all the way...if your cost conscious like me. I'm still fast and light...Full bolts on, 6MT, Supercharged...and heavily reliable

[@IzzyE9X]

I’d love to pick your brain on the supercharger, do you have an insta?

[@AndrewNichols]

sadly FBO on an N52 gets you stock power of a N54 minus 5Hp. for about $4000

[@lousehassle]

@@AndrewNichols that is more than enough for people who just want a clean daily that doesn’t have n54 problems

[@mikedodd9294]

supercharged and reliable?

[@kevinsinor2821]

@@lousehassleyes but put $4k into an n54 IN JUST MAINTENANCE and it will last just as long

[@Ashley_van_Schooneveld]

I have a 2016 built N55 with MPPK approaching 120k mi and only problems to dates have been water pump, thermostat & valve cover gasket. The original valve cover gasket lasted 115k mi. Been quite reliable and still pulls hard.

[@slo.bimmer]

please look at what 4n motorsport did to an n55

[@geeniusatwrok]

2014 F30/N55/6MT, MPPK+MPE, fast as f and snorty without sketch flashes/bolt-ons. OK fast enough for me. Y'all wanna blow up your motors, feel free.

[@joseenriques5791]

My parents gave me as a gift from college the E92 330i 2009. I swap my bmw with my father for a SUV since I have two daughters and a year ago, my little boy was born. That being said, my father gave me back my bmw with only 55,000kms. First it was mine, then my father, now mine again, and then my boy. I am now making my build on the car, and been changing and making it look badass again! I owned 3 years ago, the E92 V8 M3. Loved it, however I didn't like the weight of the engine and sold it twice the money I paid for it. Now I am enjoying so much my 330i and I feel like a little kid again! BEST ENGINE N52! No problems at all!! Amazing and nice video brother. Thank you!

[@ashtonwalker14]

😂😂

[@donDiago]

I've had my 335i N54 for over 12 years serviced by me every 3000k t17 turbo's and FBO never a problem probably the most reliable car I have had in my 65 years and it's quick turbo's were also fitted by me.

[@strizap]

Agreed, but still on stock turbos. What 17t's brand Fapo's?

[@lilchu7336]

My experience as a mechanic with all these motors and currently owning N54. They’re all notorious for oil leaks and issues. N55 can be just as problematic as and N54 same with the N52. Depends how well maintained it was from the previous owners. I have my Z4 N54 previous owner took great of it and I also did all the maintenance for safe measure. Pushing 600hp on upgraded turbos, E85 Port injection. It’s blast to destroy other B58 owners and V8 engines. occasionally gives me hiccups. Btw my car has 117k miles. Stock engine and trans (DCT)

[@IKONIKBeats]

N54 Owner here. 161k miles daily driven with mods and tune. Since owning had to replace water pump, Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Pan Gasket, radiator. I turn my own tools and I must say I absolutely have a blast with the N54. N54 gang baby 🤟🏾

[@gregleri535i]

I have a 2013 535i m sport n55 that has catted downpipe, VRSF intercooler, Valvetronic remote exhaust, MHD stage 2+ tune, XHP transmission tune, and will pull any 550i any day. Just hit 100k miles, and my only failure has been a water pump, and that really didn't even fail, but it was going because my fan would run more often. What I'm saying is I drive the crap out of this car daily and it's without a doubt been the most dependable vehicle I've ever owned. Not to mention I've always been a Mustang guy.. That said, the n55 to me is that sweet spot.. Nice video! Thanks

[@Maxgavralov]

How much power do you put down?

[@gregleri535i]

3 pulls 2 months ago on the dyno with a best of 351hp and 411tq at the wheels @19.5 psi. Also that's running e30. It's a very healthy motor on the stock turbo. Still gets 30ish mpg highway. Iam considering a Dorch stage 2.5 hpfp, but can't decide on either a Pure stage 1, or stage 2 turbo upgrade. Since it's my daily driver I may just go Pure stage 1 and call it a day. I believe going stage 1 on the stock hpfp will definitely get me at or just above the 400whp on 93 octane.. That to me is the sweet spot. Also according to Draggy the way I sit my best 0-60 was 4.27, and quarter mile was 12.92 @ 109.4 with a bit of wheel spin Big improvement compared to stock

[@gregleri535i]

Oh as a note that dyno session was before I installed the VRSF intercooler. Since that it does feel better in the upper rpm range as the boost hangs strong longer.. If that makes any sense

[@DJ-lc1en]

Go with stage 1 spools very quick! I have stage 1 pure turbo fbo running flex fuel custom tune car pushing 450 awhp in summer and 470 in winter months. Love the car it's a 2011 535i xdrive.

[@gregleri535i]

That's exactly what I needed to hear. Looks like I know where my next pound of hundred dollar bills will be going...lol.. Are you still on the stock hpfp with the Pure stage 1??? Thanks bro..

[@siugarfield7647]

I owned a N52 before, it has no abnormal issues rather than changing engine oil, brake, tranmission oil regularly. It leaked once at the bottom of oil pan. Got it fixed, ran smooth again. I noticed that it might have generated excessive heat when running but never had overheat issue for me. I appreciated it.

[@zakarymullins1816]

N52 gang. Reliable even with aftermarket performance mods had 3 n52 and have had very little problems with them mostly just basic maintenance stuff Except them damn carrier bearings now running jxb best $300 ever spent on it

[@zakarymullins1816]

Had all 3 n52s are my favorite to daily tho

[@IzzyE9X]

240,000 miles and still going strong 🫡

[@zakarymullins1816]

@@IzzyE9X have 280 on current runs like a top

[@mzansipunters4295]

yep, we are here N52 gang, even reliability is an understatement, this engines are sometging else.

[@vdubskiee5356]

solid motor fr

[@dabcitydwcsfv420]

I went with the N55 full bolt on and Pure Turbo swap for good power and good reliability. Of course I replaced every gasket and seal and coil packs as well as 1 step cooler spark plugs before modifying. Overall been a very reliable daily after being modified for about 4 years now.

[@theo_angelos]

I absolutely love my e82 135i N54. Car has vrsf downpipes, Wagner intercooler, afe intakes and refurbished turbos. It's a small beast

[@xanderkhan]

N52 is the reliable big brother, N54 is the ADHD middle-brother that hurts himself, N55 is the youngest brother that learnt with wisdom from his N54 older brother.

[@IzzyE9X]

this is the perfect analysis 😂

[@SomoshiphopRadio]

LMAO!

[@SomoshiphopRadio]

@@IzzyE9X

[@rolandolevy8512]

Well said !!

[@exiteternium]

not really, the N55 rod bearing tolerances are tighter and can lead to failure sooner, the rods also aren't forged like the N54. so N54 is the athletic middle kid with a temper, and the N55 is the ADHD youngest.

[@prxybeats]

m2 OG owner here. Love the n55 with s55 parts in it. A blast to drive and pretty happy with the FBO power figures.

[@mike9er369]

I sell BMWs for a living and have been working for them the last 8 years. This video pretty much sums it up. That being said, I drive a 2013 335i with a small tune and some bolt ons as my daily driver😊 it’s not a rocket but the n55 is really reliable and great to drive. Thats all I ask for in my daily. If I wanted peak power…… n54….. No questions asked. Great info in this video!!!

[@IzzyE9X]

thank you for your input!

[@josephrs2564]

Damn. Reading all the N52 comments here got me thinking now lol. I have an N54 and I honestly don’t know how I didn’t give up on it. I’ve had it for about 5 years now. It’s a beast! Zero issues. I’ll prob consider RWD more on my next build, mostly for doing my own maintenance reasons. I like AWD as a daily. I don’t have the tools for a lot of this shit lol. Throughout the build I kept telling myself I sold the wrong car (had a 97 e36 M3). I’m glad I was wrong. But also absolutely loved the e36 M3.

[@shotty.]

nah you definitely fucked up selling the best car ever & best bmw for an n54 car ☠️

[@josephrs2564]

@@shotty. lol. Figured I get heat for that comment, I get it.

[@josephpizzo4373]

sold my 97 e36 m3 10 years ago. I'll never forgive myself despite currently owning a 6MT e60 m5 and an e61 535xi. I think I'd trade both of them for my e36 right now...

[@josephrs2564]

@@josephpizzo4373 I don’t forgive myself either. Total workhorse, even with all the problems mine had. That car got me into bmws

[@kylecarpenter9351]

Bro just download xDelete on your phone if you want to switch to 2wd if you have xdrive. I like mine in awd. You definitely made the right choice. Sounds like you've barely started.

[@craigward1843]

2014 X3, N54 here. 182K. Miles. Drives like great, shifts smooth as butter. Accidentally red lined it the other day, passing off the line. Wish the power was more low range .

[@slo.bimmer]

i own an n52 love my n52. but them boys at 4N Motorosports just proved why the n55 is the best platform

[@AlznadAlznad]

How many liters of N52 engine oil does it need and what type of oil is this 5w-30 or this 10w-40?

[@mitskiq570]

@@AlznadAlznad Some people are going for certain brands, as long as it is bmw certified doesnt matter that much. I put in mine Motul 5W40 and it takes around 6.5L.

[@Mr335iBMW]

Previously owned an N54 but it always needed something. Now I have an N52 and I actually love it more. It’s just so smooth!!!

[@nelsonx4235]

It’s not a rocket ship, but BMW has the best NA engines…just look at the BMW legacy before turbo charge cars

[@daviddrake6311]

I have a 2008 335i cabrio, so N54. Tune to just over 400hp. Got 317,000 km on the clock and still in great shape (bought it with 62,000 km). Love the car, and do oil changes every 5-6k. That is a must to keep it running peak performance with little to noissues.

[@SHWELL11]

My N55 is currently my most reliable car, and I own all 3 engines mentioned here. Penny fr penny, te N55 has the lead.

[@IzzyE9X]

Great input ✅

[@vdubskiee5356]

💯

[@Tight--LiNeZ]

The early N55 had a pneumatic wastegate (PNG), then later an electronic wastegate (EWG), which controls boost better and you get a bit more power for the same mods. Doesn't matter if you go "stage 3" though.

[@sjovet]

Nice straight forward info, thanks. 170k miles on my n52 which I’ve owned for about 8 years. Have done the oil pan, cooling system, starter, coil packs. Other than that, it has been a fantastic car and this engine is buttery smooth. Only upgrades are air intake, full exhaust, and coilovers. Recently got a n55 f10 and I’m really enjoying it. No issues yet. Only upgrade on this so far is a sweet suspension cup kit. Still have my e90 n52, don’t want to get rid of it yet 😊

[@bobbykhan5787]

I had a 330xi (auto, E90), I enjoyed the N52 with it’s more typical BMW inline 6 NA experience. That being said, I couldn’t argue with the raw power put out by subsequent engines. I remember my service loaner in 2007 was a 335i and I was blown away, it was a big deal at the time in the power wars (when G35 and IS350 were leading in 2006).

[@clydestrong2913]

N52 all day! Thanks for the vid bro!

[@malachaithomas2590]

Owned all three absolutely love all of them video definitely does their descriptions justice

[@curtisfitzsimmons377]

Just finishing building a n54 rn last piece I needed was a full exhaust system, which I just grabbed today. Should be fun, I replaced the entire clutch, rear main seal, turbos, inlets outlets,better intercooler, better piping. Berger cones, upgraded charge pipe, Bov, coil overs, index 12’s. Just finished putting everything together waiting on one part and I need to get the mhd tuning software and it should be game time.

[@bhackey7816]

Stage 1+ n54 here. 202k and i daily it! Still going strong 🚀

[@ericstidham5917]

My n54 has 190k and it still going strong too Mine has stage 2+ on it.

[@exiteternium]

stage1+ here too 189K.. developed oil leak, so plan on redoing oil pan gasket and putting baffle in when i do.

[@IKONIKBeats]

N54 owner here too 161k miles still strong. If you turn your own tools when problems arise, you should no issues.

[@sokola311]

Went from an E39 MT52-TU to an F10 N55 and I am very happy. BMW fixed quite a bit of the problems. I do miss my E39 though.

[@JakeAnd1217]

I’ve owned two N55’s. Water pump/thermostat problems are the only issue I’ve had.

[@neco1080]

Same here only 2 problems I’ve had.

[@fuadhuskic234]

That’s not problem it’s missed service to replace parts on time njoy

[@claudiohernandez9470]

2000 323i, n52 320k, 2004 325xi wagon n54 190k !! Keep running smooth!!

[@David-s3v2n]

Ive owned my E93 335i 07 plate.. 11 years now its running like a champ.. only mods blow off valve charge pipe and led steering wheel.. spent about £1500 in repairs over 11 years.. milage 79,000 my advice dont tune it the car is very fast stock and economical 😂.. i would never sell it main dealer said its %100 collecters car they wanted me to trade it in for another bmw lol

[@photonpilot__]

One of the collest things about the N52 is it can run individual intakes, not throttle bodies, intakes! This is due to it being a naturally aspariated Valvetronic motor. Valvetronic handles the throttle inputs rather than a throttle body which is what makes the indidiual intakes possible. It's not possible to do it on an N54 or N55 because of the turbo or on the M52 or M54 because of the need for a throttle body. You can get a kit for the individual throttle bodies with a tune from a few small companies and it makes them sound crazy. It also slightly boosts the torque output of the engine. That said the N55 is by far my favorite. They're power delivery with the twinscroll turbo is so smooth and they sound incredible with a good exhaust. Edit for spelling :)

[@bronsonmmable]

I’ve had my n54 for 9 years.. redlined it every other day .. tuned modded it has 22-26 psi.. has about 450-500 whp.. I drive it hard everyday .. I did all preventative maintenance.. no issues .. recently just replaced a coil and an alternator. .. if you know about n54s your not a cheap fry bag you can have a reliable n54

[@BMWe92n54]

Какой кузов? Е90 или Е92 ?

[@willschansa8307]

You got money bro.. what you driving right there is some serious slay queen 😅

[@TurboJetST]

I had an 07’ N52 E92 freshman year of college. I loved it, lasted me 252k miles could’ve went further, I had it built for track handling. I want to go to either N54 or N55 soon. Maybe leaning towards a 435

[@SergeantZaf03]

This was a very well done video. As a big car guy but not the biggest BMW guy, this was informative

[@IzzyE9X]

thank you brotha!

[@aslkdas]

I got 535i which has n55 engine. It is 2012 and got 95k kms on it. It is such a powerful engine and fuel efficient on longer routes. On longer route it gives 850kms on one tank of fuel; doing 1800rpms @ 110km/hr. 8 speed automatic is so precise that it never let me down. I owned 540i e60(which is also similar hps but naturally aspirated v8) before. I am lucky to own two amazing cars ❤ Only issue i had was water pump at 70k kms other than that it has been super reliable and comfortable.

[@zahraddenkabir6680]

Lets gather here for N55

[@anarchyteam1758]

got a 135i n55 6mt making a decent 380hp

[@lukeskywalker1666]

@@anarchyteam1758140i stage 2with hpfp 480 bhp

[@YadadaImean]

F15 n55 320hp and tq out the box in sportmode. Been playin with going fbo n stage 1. I don't really wanna push it too far as it my daily and I already have a fully built si.

[@lukeskywalker1666]

@@YadadaImean get the b58 night and day difference

[@YadadaImean]

@lukeskywalker1666 I've been hunting for about 6 months for a pristine e90 m5, that'll be my next purchase, but absolutely keeping the f15

[@yordanpp90]

e90 n52n, milvs, 3stage and tune, 7 years under my ownership and still going strong. Very very reilable, no oil burns or so, compared to my previous m54 e46. My next upgrade maybe n55 f15 x5, only because my family grow ... Still love n52. I will see if n55 is also good. Nice video!

[@matthewnicholas6365]

E20 2002 Turbo was BMWs first production turbo. May have sold substantially less units (less cars to put it in) but still was sold at dealers.

[@zDemoGODz]

That's the point. It was sold because of race regulations. Not because it was designed to be a mass produced turbo model. N54 is first one that is turbo and meant for mass production.

[@matthewnicholas6365]

@@zDemoGODz but it's not the first turbo engine. Doesn't matter why, it just isn't.

[@yaseeroumar4938]

280 000km millage on my 130i. Still solid strong engine. Daily runner. Engine never been opened

[@CLCustom1911]

The 3.0 in the 325/328i was pretty easy to work on when I had one. 2006 325i. Very fun car, learned a lot.

[@jorgerodriguez-fj1ih]

Great video, I have have had issues with my 2013 35 I x3, however, normal oil leaks, vacumm pump and gaskets. No mods and still going strong 126k.

[@HonzaVinCZ]

N53 seems pretty underrated. First I wanted to get hands on N52 but then found a good deal for N53 and now I have N53. Although it's very similar to N52, people are not talking about them much and I wonder why

[@mtbridingog9083]

The n53 is a decent motor it’s very similar to the n52 but has a few changes to the engine and tune .. I believe the 53 has a little more torque then the 52

[@bobsmockus]

Main reason is the N53 wasn't offered in the US market, which is where a ton of these videos and DIYs come from. I am an American who was fortunate enough to own one in a 2009 330i wagon. N53 was basically an N52 with direct injection and without valvetronic (yes, I know there are some other differences but those are the big ones). In my experience the N53 isn't as reliable as the N52, mostly due to the injectors and the NOx sensor issues...although it doesn't have valvetronic so that eliminates potential issues. I loved, loved, loved the N53. I also love the N52 (had 2) but the N53 was absolute peak BMW NA inline six, in my opinion.

[@slimman74]

I'm driving a 2011 328i N51 (in Cali)which is just a N52 with the stage 3 intake manifold. Have 193k miles, replaced all the coolant lines, radiator and the reservoir. Had the oil pan replaced a few months after getting the car used. The car run great. Keeping up with the maintenence is key. Great video!

[@JoeyDurant]

Got all 3 and my N52 09 still running strong with 220k miles my fav Daily w a few mods

[@han7l]

Very informative outline of the N engines. I'm still with M54 era and renting a N55 car so it is good to get up to speed.

[@wrektem240]

I love my n54.. the sound of the air getting sucked in, the turbo sounds, the power, easily modded and tuned! 165k miles. Sitting around 400 hp I believe

[@BMW-tr3nf]

Excellent tuturiol I have the E90 facelift model 2010 LCI.323i N52. 207000km and still runs silky smooth. Maintenance done by myself except transmission service. I have to say I won't be parting with this car any time soon.

[@IzzyE9X]

the N52 is a silky smooth setup!

[@Ecan26]

Mine is 2011 E90 325i (N52B25). Yesterday i sent it to workshop because clogged catalytic..but the car is great & very capable for normal people like me..

[@jtcorvin9614]

Had an 07 N54, loved it...when it ran. Big WHEN. Moving on to am N55 now. We'll see.

[@justinortega7542]

335i e93 n55 fbo e35~ blend im pushing 380whp, so fun and awesome i love it

[@Htown82]

210K miles on N52 328i and valve cover and filter housing gasket leaks only, Love BMW engines

[@BoricuaFlavored]

I want to get me my 1st bmw but im undecided on which is better between the 435i and the 440i in terms of reliability but this video definitely cleared up a lot of things for me. Great content! 👍🏼

[@Devincible]

Had multiple N54's finally got into a OG M2 lately. I will never look back

[@Plumbtired]

I have a 335i e93 with the N54. It was a basket case when I bought it about a year ago. Recently, finally, I have it running and looking really nice. Basically had to do all the maintenance that nobody else did. Plugs, coil packs, fuel, injectors, alternator, battery, power steering pump, AC compressor motor mounts that I upgraded🎉😂🎉🎉😊 Edit: Now it has new injectors index 10. Index 12 are still too pricey.

[@charliemcgarvey2302]

I just picked up my first 335i. Went to gets a service kit, when I gave the reg they literally couldn’t find plugs available for it lol

[@Plumbtired]

@@charliemcgarvey2302 Bought mine online on Amazon. Bosch three point $10 per. Autozone wanted $24 per. Thiefs.

[@exiteternium]

i'm still running index 6's.. i run injector cleaner like twice a month..

[@Plumbtired]

@@exiteterniumMy injector on number six cylinder keeps dying. I’m using an index 8 there right now. It’s seems fine. I coded with a Launch code reader 2. Time to clean my Vanos Solenoids and put cam sensors in.

[@exiteternium]

@@Plumbtired a single cylinder misfire could be injector, coil, or bad cylinder but i doubt it would be Vanos, as that should be multiple cylinder or accompanied by a camshaft over retard or over advance code. if the intake valves haven't been walnut blasted yet, that may be a maintenance item to look into.

[@TheEhssan0]

What about E60 N52? I have it and only has oil leakage during these years,but totally i am satisfied of my boy 👦

[@Rmmlom]

You got it right on the money. (N51)-52 is the most reliable Naturally Aspirated, no turbos BMW. As an owner sence 2010 E92 M sport pak and being a smog state, well not a problem that 3 stage manifold delivers all the beef you need without the problems as you have said. The N54 was great if you like spending cash every so offen, a lot of cash. But hay track day is the ticket to your fun that comes with a price tag. and again as you said N55 has it's moments, those turbos you have a bit more reliable experience but again with again a price tag. After all it's a BMW and in our experience the N51- N52 for all around sport driving on your daily journey is the way to go, without the massive problems, As you described to a T. Big time fan of the BMW world.

[@ShmuSounds]

I gotta 2013 328i coupe, I wanna beef it up but keep it reliable. What would you do?

[@ShmuSounds]

& it’s a N52 I6 like how he says in the vid

[@Rmmlom]

It's all about the engine, as in the comments your best bet is the N51 being petty much the same as the N52. Also the 3 stage manifold is the extra horsepower on the N51-N52. A reliable engine by far with much fewer problems.

[@kalinwellmein]

I don’t know my man.. i have n52b25 on my 325xdrive.. with 3 stage manifold , that thing is slow, im dissapointed, so much money put in it to make it run well, its almost all new, besides valvetronic and crankshaft and intake shaft… my brother gave me a ride with his old 2.0 turbo Saab , also automatic, that thing would smoke my 325 easily.. i spent 4 times more than he did for engine rebuild.. 😢

[@Spirited_Driver]

Had my 135i n54 for about 6yrs now, running stage 2+ as my daily all year round driver, currently has 200,000km . Aside from the index 12 injectors, I've only done the same as what you mentioned the n52 issues are. So don't be saying it needs way more maintenance if you haven't owned one. It really isn't bad especially for the price you can buy one for!!! The n54 cars are cheap to buy, so even doing a little more on maintenance will still bot cost a lot. Doing your own maintenance saves a lot too.

[@Dannyboy404]

Amen! 335is DCT and loving it. This video is BS.

[@E90_335xi]

Got a 2008 335xi with vrsf intake, 5’inch intercooler, charge pipe with tial bov, catless downpipes and exhaust that car moves. Stage 2 MHD

[@jeromebrown69]

Owned two n54 335s and currently own a n55 x5 love both😅😅

[@MarkIrwin02]

S58 all the way. But I do love my n55. Going to have to do a lot of work later on. As putting an upgraded turbo and intercooler will require beefing up the internals to handle the power and not send pistons through my hood.

[@brancnt]

Have a 2014 bmw 335xi stage 2 MHD with 130k and have done: thermostat, waterpump, HPFP, injectors, plugs and coils, ZF trans service, and valve cover gasket. Mostly preventative maintenance. On and my coolant reservoir bleeder screw dry rotted and cracked. But other than the basic stuff she’s very reliable and I drive it daily for work

[@IzzyE9X]

sounds like you've knocked out most of the trouble points already!

[@kingb7080]

N52 all day.

[@Stompychann]

Great video, thank you for sharing!

[@corbandaniels2368]

n55 IMO is just the best choice for a car enthusiast who wants to daily.

[@tellorodriguez]

Hi here with my 135i N55 E82 with 100k and still rocking. Advice, do you maintenance and buy in advance a water pump, valve cover gasket. If you can change the thermostat for the masselmans, half of the issues are solved. Currently Stage 1+ with 360HP. Love my daily driver.

[@natoawster4648]

250 k miles on my n52 plus the 3 stage manifold Its my daily driver . 2008 5 series

[@IzzyE9X]

Same here! 240K with the 3 stage kit

[@senca777]

n55 owner here, watch out for the valvetronic motor (currently my problem and many others had it aswell)

[@Mossskaterhans]

If you want reliability N52. BULLETPROOF!. Just do hoses at 130k

[@sipmeister3611]

just hit 130k on my n51 only had to replace a couple hoses looking into a new reservoir for coolant and possibly new oil cap

[@vchap01]

There was also the N51 engine in CA and NY markets. 328i's that came with it had the same 3-stage intake manifold as 330i's that were not sold in the US. The heads have larger chambers though for a slightly lower compression (10:1 instead of 10.7:1). Milling the head along with some minor porting could produce 260+ hp with basic bolt-on upgrades.

[@IzzyE9X]

Correct! I didn’t mention the N51 due to video length, but thank you for this spot on comment

[@MrKillerhaze]

Is something about driving my 09 335ix manual FOB MHD stage 2+ E40 mix and beating literally 95% of cars on the road just puts a smile in your face 😅

[@RasKyleon]

My n52 (stock) still runnjng strong at 180K miles, but damn it's slow. Any pointers?

[@IzzyE9X]

three stage intake manifold, upgraded air intake, exhaust and tune

[@RasKyleon]

@@IzzyE9X mine has the 3 stage manifold with the disa valves already. What tune do you suggest?

[@petef7323]

I had the z4 coupe N52 265bhp. Peach of an engine. I heard the disa valves could fail, depositing debris into the engine and causing catastrophic failure.

[@geoffreymagagula5363]

Had my 2009 N54 for about 10years until some junk mechanic opened and couldn't fix it. It stayed outside car for 2 years and it's back and strong now.

[@stephanelouvet1113]

Nice summary. 👍 Beware early N55 are using the same HPFP as N54. Mine just started to die and I'll have to change it soon.

[@barlutytops8655]

I have a 325 for daily and a 335 for weekends, but if i have to choose one i keep the n52 , at my 40s i choose reliability against more power , in 14 years of own the n52 with a good prevently maintance i never have a single trouble , of course oil leaks happens but nothing complícate, the n54 is another history , i love it but you Need to be very very patient

[@freestyle648]

You should mention that the early n55 engines did not have the new fuel pump. I think they shared the same fuel pump as the n54 until 2013 or so. The early n55s can also have rod bearing issues, often caused by the 15k mile oil change interval early in life

[@IzzyE9X]

thank you for that input! realistically nobody should be doing 15K oil changes, it’s crazy any car manufacturer could even recommend that lol

[@AlejandroPerez-gr4nj]

If you end up considering a n54 maybe look into a bmw z4. I have a 2011 z4 35i m sport and I love it. Drives amazing and maintaining it is pretty easy with the entire engine being exposed unlike the sedans or coupes, how they have the windshield over the engine and you gotta remove all kinds of plastics to do anything back there

[@swmyminigo]

2008 N54/E90 RWD. Incredible car when dialed in but frankly almost always broke. Not just the N54 issues. The chassis can have expensive issues. Xenon Headlight assemblies need ballast replacement and the wiring in the assemblies fail due to wiring insulation deteriation. $2k in parts to replace the assemblies. Occupany seat sensor failure. $$$. Etc... still amazing to drive though.

[@WildDigger]

I love both my n52s, my 3.0si z4, and my 328i are reliable. If I wanted to chase HP I would get a v8 or v10. Either in a foreign car or an American car. My light z4 with 265hp is a gocart in the mountains.

[@THEOGGUNSHOW]

I've had my 2008 328xi e90 for several years now with about 186K miles on it. My dual mass clutch finally went out, so I'm replacing it with a Turner Motorsport Performance Lightweight Flywheel N52 and street racing clutch. I've already swapped in the Magnesium Alloy Valve Cover and completed the 3-stage-DISA-Intake-Manifold mod. I may do the MILVS upgrade at some point and most likely the headers. What else am I missing?

[@JoseDiaz-pz4ri]

I have N52 528XI AND I LOVE IT RUNS GOOD LOVE THE SPEED AND MAINTENANCE I DO IT MY SELF CANT COMPLAIN BNW FEVER AND IF I COULD I WOULD HAVE N54 TOO

[@bonlob23]

The early n55s also had the n54 style hpfp so it’s not really a cut down there.

[@GoodOlTazzy]

N52 my beloved, I got a 3L one in my E61 530i with 250K miles!

[@LSmiata]

love the N52 as last of the best N/A inline 6's

[@Shari_Tejp]

Why is nobody talking about n53? 300 hp stock just with intake and exhaust. Naturally aspirated! Perfect engine to throw in an older bmw for someone who doesn’t want a turbo, and loves n/a goodness

[@bwdrives]

It was DFI instead of port injection so had a less reliable fuel pump and injectors like the N54, it’s not much of a gain over the N52 either so not really worth it. Also American never got the N53 Oh and you also get carbon buildup from DFI

[@Shari_Tejp]

@@bwdrives it’s not worth it for you Americans because you don’t have the engine, but for us in Germany it is definitely worth it, it’s the last naturally aspirated bmw engine from factory. And as i said, it’s 300hp easily, if you want to spend a bit more for porting the head and tunign it can go to 350hp, and rev till 8k rpm, that’s almost s54 territory. you can’t get those numbers on n52 without spending a fortune on some cams and porting the head etc…Plus direct injektion doesn’t make it bad, of course injectors can fail sometimes, but it is considered very reliable engine here in Germany, maybe not as simple as n52 but you loose somewhere to win somewhere.

[@bwdrives]

@@Shari_Tejp that’s impressive I have to say, an S54 but with better reliability and good fuel consumption! Also I live in the UK not America haha

[@bobsmockus]

@@Shari_Tejp Had an N53 in Germany and almost cried selling it

[@bluerineimb1148]

Fantastic info I have a E60 3.0 n52 but now I am thinging mmm a n55 wauld be nice for next car

[@MrMightymayo24]

I have a N54 and I agree with everything you stated. If I was to start over definitely the N55 would be my chose. What are your thoughts on the 335d?

[@risengaming4044]

I had a 07 328xi, got side swiped in winter now i have a 335xi (auto but not for long) bc there werent any manual 328xi and god that 328 was amazing i had it for a year and it never really shit the bed but i did do valve cover

[@ShamanNoodles]

Best of all worlds is a late model n54 which comes factory with the nicer injectors. I think 2011 is the year that reliability gets good on the n54

[@humtermods]

Great video I know it migth be no that relevant but in europe we have the N43 and N53 Would be cool to see a video of thoose 🔥👍😃

[@bobsmockus]

Had the same thought! I'm an American but lived in Germany and had a 330i wagon with the N53 and I will forever miss that car. Power, smoothness and flatness of the torque delivery, fuel economy, all in a super practical station wagon. I mean sure, N54 has more power, but that thing would still do 155 mph/250 kmph on the autobahn no problem. Sad face. I miss her.

[@trobson9952]

What about the mosfets in the dme 's ?

[@risengaming4044]

2.5L n52 was offered in canada as the 323i

[@jimmybraden3334]

Still love my 2013 335IS, N54- One of 269 in LeMans Blue with DCT - now a with a custom tune, aftermarket IC, Brembo Brakes, LSD, Kona Shocks. and some ///M parts up from and del-rin arms in back - And only 80K miles - and USES ZERO oil in 5K miles...

[@larshede442]

Thanks for a brilliant and informative video🙂👍🇩🇰

[@IzzyE9X]

Thanks for watching!

[@jamesfigueroa382]

N52 is best due to Normal Problems like Gasket leaks and N54 and N55 are great but less Reliable due to Faulty Injectors and Turbos..!

[@omarc7709]

You should talk about the 335is

[@thisguyshorty3554]

Only big difference is the DCT.