The Last Inline 6 Engine: BMW N52

[@saganworshipper6062]

When properly maintained this is one of the smoothest and quietest running engines I've ever listened to.

[@truthmonster3290]

smooth, quiet and pushed you back in your leather seat, it was special. everything good goes away.

[@crackedemerald4930]

@@truthmonster3290 everything goes away

[@goldensprank5972]

I agree with you...i have one with 188K and runs like a almost new car...pleasure to drive it!

[@korencek]

There is newer B58, better, smoother :)

[@korencek]

@@goldensprank5972 if you change oil regularly it can go over 500k km.

[@airtow6766]

I just ran across your channel and gotta say you are one knowledgeable guy. I went to a lot of training classes during my career and never saw presentations as clear and concise as yours. Fantastic job!

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. No matter how many classes you go to, there's nothing like learning by taking the actual thing apart.

[@denislaouenan5553]

@@speedkar99 I can't tell if you have a hobby of taking things apart and learn or if you own a garage maybe even a scrap yard. Which ever you certainly know your stuff and most probably had good technical education to start with.

[@many-points]

"now, part of what makes this a engine a real BMW is that it leaks oil" TOO TRUE. You had me rolling on the floor laughing.

[@speedkar99]

Yep it's true and this engine was no exception

[@patrickkoelzow9429]

but does it leak more oil then a jaguar?

[@denislaouenan5553]

@Nagato is better than Punk Naruto I miss mine, had 2, firt was 530d touring then X3

[@SkyPix119]

It's called self rust protection, pretty high German engineering.

[@e90gabe]

Mine doesn’t leak 😂 should I be concerned

[@CastironCoffee]

"Part of what makes this engine a real BMW is that it leaks oil" :)

[@speedkar99]

It's so true

[@chriss6154]

You sir are completely right

[@moeanthony9308]

Absolutely correct.

[@greebj]

Better out than in

[@shaun2072]

Both my X1 and 135i are in full agreement

[@terryjesper9640]

One of the smoothest engines. Can sit on the motorway @ 120mph all day, just stop to refuel. I've got the N53 which is a bit more economical. Wonderful engine for touring, quiet, powerful, economical.

[@speedkar99]

Just picked up an N54 today. Video coming soon!

[@anthonygillesse7242]

I have two BMWs with this engine a 530xit and a Z4 coupe both with lots of miles and both run like a top knock on wood. And your right on with your description. If your handy with a wrench and stop the oil leaks they should go for a long time. Maintenance is the key

[@speedkar99]

Agreed. Can't have a Corolla budget with these

[@Navisworker]

I'm not a wrench turner, but I have a 330xi. Besides oil changes and gaskets, what constitutes proper maintenance? How do I clean the engine to maintain nice clean cylinder heads?

[@anthonygillesse7242]

@@Navisworker Hello since your engine is port injected your engine shouldn’t carbon up like a turbocharged engine. I’ve removed the intake manifold off to replace a starter motor and the intake valves where as clean as a whistle. Keep the oil changed at 7 thousand and keep an eye on you PVC system and it will go for a long time. Word of caution fix the oil leaks especially the oil filter housing gasket.

[@Navisworker]

@@anthonygillesse7242 I had all my gaskets replaced at the same time (even the oil pan), not a job I want to pay for again. I do oil changes ever 10-12k km.

[@kellyem33]

BMW says that you can address carbon build up by running the engine at 3k rpm for several minutes, especially if you do a low of low rpm driving. I make sure to take it out every few days and work it to 3-5k in sport mode for a bit. Since I began doing that, the engine is performing like a rocket. Also, I have begun. at 138k, a slow investment in the motor, shaft sensors, seals, belt, vanos, OCV, and soon, the DISA. Ill probably keep investing. The mechanic’s son told me, “I think this is a fantastic BMW, it drives so well.”. The 52 is a marvel of efficiency.

[@brainkill7034]

ahh yes, a good ol' italian tune up!

[@paulmcdermott638]

Techron

[@brianlobo1512]

This is quite a good engine and as you said relatively reliable. The N52 had a 3 stage intake system on the 330i which gave it a nice intake growl under full throttle and downshifts. 255hp is not a lot but still enough to enjoy fast sporty driving.

[@Sendies]

I put the 3 stage intake manifold on my 128i and flashed the ECU with 330i software and the low end torque gain completely changes the character of the car.

[@fear-is-a-token]

The engine is great, really, but these 255 horsepower.... here in Russia we pay like 150$ road tax for 250 hp car - and it rises to $500+ for 251 and more. Taking into account 500$ is an average man's monthly wage - these 5 horsepower are a real pain in the ass

[@zzoinks]

​@@fear-is-a-tokenso expensive. In America we don't pay taxes based on the car, it's like a set fee for all cars that is paid annually, but nowhere as expensive as Russia or Europe by the sounds of it.

[@fear-is-a-token]

@@zzoinks wish we had the same system. For small cars the tax is quite low - I pay ~4$ for my 63hp Lada samara, paid 7$ for another Lada (98hp) I had some time ago, and my friend pays ~10$ for his Ford focus. But when it comes to real cars, taxes are really high. I can afford buying a used truck now (2002 ram 1500 hemi, absolutely unpopular in this world of lada shitboxes here, but some are around, and I really like it) - but the idea of paying from 1/20 to 1/10 of its price annually to the government just pisses me off.

[@curtlewis7633]

£365 tax per year here in the UK

[@sobzzer5285]

I got this engine in my F10, 5000 km since I bought it and I can say it has enough power for smooth daily driving, the sound is also very nice. I also have the oil leak from the valve gasket cover and now I know how to remove it :) Thanks, great video. Saved on my playlist for future garage repairs!

[@madmax6662]

One of my favorite engines, had one in a e90 from 70k km to 150k km did 4 oil changes 1 radiator 1 coil pack and 6x spark plugs I was super pleased with the motor and oddly I never had an oil leak was still very tidy under. I have since upgraded to the newer B58 I-6 3L single T and boy do I get similar vibes in the robustness

[@davidmutethia5292]

Aaaah..so that's how valvetronic system works.. very precise bro.

[@speedkar99]

Yes! It's pretty neat

[@denislaouenan5553]

@@speedkar99 very complicated or elaborated compare to swirl with the disadvantage that you can't get rid of it like you can remove swirl

[@volf4o]

Unfortunately, I had to learn how it works because I had to replace the eccentric camshaft and the valvetronic motor on my N55 engine... Fairly disappointed that BMW decided to put a plastic motor inside the engine.

[@xhamster69]

I drive a 06 BMW 325i with this engine, only smaller displacement. Had to replace the expensive water pump once and the oil consumption went down to zero after replacing all these gaskets. This engine is - even after 17 years and almost 120k miles - as smooth as on its first day. By the way: since I had the above mentioned issues I looked across youtube for videos explaining parts of this engine and this clip is by far the best !! 👍

[@richarddrozd1201]

06 525i : same history - very smooth.

[@aowen1079]

I got this motor in my 2006 3 series. I got it six years now and its been pretty awesome. Enough power, smooth as butter and it handles great. Mainly because its my first rwd car, I've had 5 fwd cars before the 3 series. Just gotta be handy with a wrench. If not its best to get a Toyota.

[@petesjk]

Like you mentioned, these engines were sensitive to proper oil pressure- so make sure you don’t have run low on oil, or even overfill the oil level. A really nice engine, overall.

[@MahadWaal]

Was actually interested in the 3 series recently. Perfect timing.

[@speedkar99]

Go for it.

[@gabon4000]

I don't think, that the timing is perfect in BMWs, so...

[@colchronic]

Well not in this engines case

[@MahadWaal]

@@speedkar99 next engine you should do a rotory engine

[@briantii]

If you’re looking at an N52 3 series I can say go for it. Few oil leaks, but really really solid engines especially compared to the garbage most companies are building these days.

[@lorenzlachmayr9445]

I got 220k kilometers on my N52B30 and it runs perfectly fine, pretty reliable motor in my opinion, maintenance is key

[@jamsbong]

Thanks for this N52 teardown! I'm an owner of a BMW 328i X-drive with N52 engine. Yes, I have done the valve cover replacement including the gasket. I've also replace the oil filter housing gasket. And replaced the coolant hose attachment (plastic) located at the oil filter housing. I replaced it with a aluminum one. I've also put in some AT-205 to stop oil leaks on the other gaskets. This seems to be working quite well. The engine itself is covered in grease and dirt. But it runs well and I enjoy driving the car. It is unbelievable how many rubber, plastic parts there are in a BMW. Lastly, BMWs need to be driven hard. So that the carbon build up goes away. Give the engine an Italian tune often and it will last longer.

[@speedkar99]

Good advice. Does yours burn any oil?

[@jamsbong]

@@speedkar99 It doesn't burn oil. I'm on 115K miles. At least I don't think so, because I have only just put in the AT-205 to stop leak.

[@Duckingg]

I can tell you exactly why this failed, not sure why someone would ditch this engine because it was 100% repairable. Notice how at around 5:10 the intake VANOS gear basically came apart. That's not supposed to happen. On the N52 engine specifically, the VANOS gears are held together with a "safety" or "tamper proof" torx bolt setup, which are very prone to shearing off. This causes the engine to have a crank no start condition due to the camshaft no longer turning with the engine. It can be the cause of a lot of misdiagnosed "faulty" engines as well, due to the camshaft being stuck in one position resulting in no compression during crank. That's likely why this engine was removed from its home. Seen it a lot, and replaced quite a few VANOS gears in my time for this exact issue. Engine looks pretty healthy, all it needs are the VANOS gears and to be re-timed. Edit: you can see the bolt heads in the oil pan at 19:17

[@mohammadhayatca3244]

great video and yes the sheared bolts are in the oil pan. great video ..thanks

[@getdealtwithquick]

BMW Vanos, the gift that kept on giving until I got an EV. Pretty sure they'll find a way to make those leak, too.

[@Colakaktus]

Great tear down! Being an owner of a 325i with the N52B25 its great to have the knowledge of how this engine works both mechanicly and structually.

[@speedkar99]

Glad it's helpful. Please share on your network

[@AGolfrGuy12]

Its a pretty great little motor isn't it? 239k km so far on my Canadian market '07 323i

[@nikolamasic7395]

@@AGolfrGuy12 319K on my Canadian market 06 323 and still in working great - only regular maintenance is ignition coils and oil changes.

[@ICrimsonReaperI]

any additional tips before buying one i'm buying a '05 325i with the n52b25 with just 170k km on it

[@alexandert4252]

This engine is actually pretty reliable and fault-proof for how complex it is - aside from direct fuel injection it got EVERY thing you can think of for optimizing that natural aspiration... It's main problem (just like every BMW) is usually it's oil consumption, but then it depends on how it was driven and maintained. What really amazed me is that i seen engines having their head rebuilt yet required no work on pistons/cylinders after 10-13 years... Although their design/materials do contribute to that oil consumption somewhat. Otherwise the only thing that kept annoying me was DISAs, but mainly because you have to crack them open to service them and they tend to fail without you knowing yet they affect performance greatly.

[@JoiceVaderd]

Yea. I've had an E46 M54B30 and currently have an E90 328i with the N52B30. I can take that M54 and tell you everything about it. This engine is a bit more complex. I am mixed on the port injection vs direct injection only due to the fact that I don't have to worry about carbon build up on the back of the valves. I had a 2016 Malibu Limited LTZ with the 2.5L ecoboost. Had put 152k miles on it and the valves had a bit of carbon on the back. My E46 and E90 have clean valves at 230k and 192k miles, respectively. Overall, the N52 has given me very little issue. I just got the part to change the OFH gasket, but the process actually looks easier than the M54 one.

[@danielcurtis8895]

N52 is port injected

[@brainkill7034]

@@JoiceVaderd yeah oil filter housing gasket on m54 was a PITA. i had the intake off and replaced the crankcase ventilation valve at the same time so had more room but wasnt fun

[@JoiceVaderd]

@@brainkill7034 After 2 years, my engine blew at 250k miles lol. And that OFHG was a piece of cake, too. Much easier than the M54B30. I actually found my old E46. Went through a few hands, but I know the guy that currently owns it. She's in great condition, too. Regret selling her.

[@thorpejsf]

@@JoiceVaderd The E46 is BMW's best car and I will die on that hill.

[@elijahcollier8348]

love the Valvetronic tech. The uneven lift of the intake valves is to make the air/fuel mix swirl (and thus mix better) before ignition

[@TheCrankshaftRotator]

0:27: In germany we had a naturally aspirated BMW r6 engine with direct injection, called "N53". This engine were offered after the N52. At the same time the N20 (turbocharged er) were offered. The N53 runs lean, unlike the N20. This is why the N53 consumes a similar amount of fuel.

[@FGDIESEL1]

Honestly dude you did a fantastic job in this video very clear and detailed

[@speedkar99]

Glad you liked it!

[@othmanharun7932]

Just found this channel a few weeks back. I'm a fan of BMW not because of its reliability but more to its solid drivability & style. I own a 320i N20 engine. Myself is inclined technically in auto repair and your great videos are really informative and practical. GREAT WORKS !

[@speedkar99]

I'm glad you appreciate it

[@rowen898]

Nice video using the proper information! What I like about BMW's are the online support community and the easy availability of actual engineering and mechanical data. Thanks for a proper tear down!!!

[@MrPhantom2183]

Amazing ! You truly have knowledge of how this N52 engine ,great work of explaining this to us viewers/owners

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. How's yours doing?

[@carenthusiast1629]

Awesome video man, I was trying to learn very details of n52 since I am a fan of last naturally aspirated BMW 6 cylinder engine. Thanks again.

[@Ian-ij4of]

That was a great video, lovely engine, its designed well, the internal parts are built to last a long time. You're too good to be working out in the snow. You are a highly skilled individual IMHO.

[@butwheresthebeef]

Just wanted to add, the block is not coated magnesium on the inside, the inner part is an aluminium silicon insert that contains the cylinder bores and coolant channels and the outer part is magnesium.

[@mzaite]

Had this engine since new in my '08 128i. now 130,000 miles and still working great. Also the lifter tick can be solved by running the engine above 3,000 RPM for a few minutes when it's cold. Only big problem I had was being RWD only it has a Steel oil pan and that had a paint flaw from factory and rusted through. That was a mess.If you see rust on your oil pan, DON'T PICK AT IT!!!! The Piston mess was from using non-"top teir" 87 octane and actually letting the oil cook itself out to the Service Monitor not changing it sooner.

[@ksajan16]

Hey I think you missed the NA part in the title. Great video!

[@speedkar99]

That would make it too long so it's on the description and video introduction.

[@julianpark93]

Yeah... BMW still makes I6 engines but they're all forced induction now

[@speedkar99]

Sadly

[@Random-nf7qb]

@@speedkar99 It's not even their last n/a engine tho.

[@PharmacyAve]

@@Random-nf7qb it is

[@jasongedney4911]

Thanks for explaining the N52 engine components as clearly as you did. I'm about to start a rebuild of a hydro locked N52, that smokes. The second engine (that replaced the hydro locked) is trying to get out from under the hood. Little bastard won't stop knocking!!! Your passed along knowledge will help greatly!

[@chaitanyakumar9626]

Title: Guys roast a multi-million dollar company while disassembling their engine

[@theblukatlife]

With a toothbrush in his hand

[@gluee8674]

every good mechanic roasts the shit out of these companies given the opportunity

[@Mohapi_Tau]

Scotty Kilmer would agree 100%

[@7sedma]

multi-tillion

[@erikledmad]

Multi-billion*

[@totalrecone]

Absolutely loving all you videos. EVERY one is a masterclass in engine design and operation. Thank you for the time and effort into sharing your knowledge. It is very much appreciated ;)

[@speedkar99]

Glad you enjoy my videos!

[@trade1713]

Totally agree!

[@FirstLast-tx3yj]

@@speedkar99 amazing teardown!! Are the crank main caps and lower girdle also aluminum or magnesium??

[@Psych0technic]

This particular engine looks pretty good and repairable, I'm surprised someone ditched it.

[@2605155]

There is a problem that plagues all German cars around a 100,000 mile mark. They all are going to start having problems, expensive ones. At the same time, because of the high-dollar problems, their value plummets. I bet the owner crunched the numbers and said: trash it. A Toyota Camry in the exact same situation would have been repaired and put back on the road without hesitation.

[@camposjesus3725]

@@2605155 the level of ignorance in this comment lol the n52 engine is one of the most reliable engines ever made by BMW. My 2010 e93 328i is at 198k miles got it brand new 0 miles. Have had no major issues with it. Never left me stranded or nothing.

[@camposjesus3725]

@Mr T you don't even own a car shut up lmaooo

[@Natalie-vv9jl]

@@2605155 You don't know what you're talking about.

[@johnhutton929]

My 06 325i n52 manual is hitting 167k. Still running strong. Eventually going to put the 3 stage intake for the extra 60 horses. And yes my oil pan leaks. Valve cover is a tad wet. But not to bad. Going to replace all gaskets this coming spring

[@Retro-motoring]

Great video! I've just bought an N52 325i and you've made it all a lot clearer. The oil leak part is so true, I can see that already...

[@rmanzano426]

@@user-ie4kp7ni9d mines a 2011 with 131k still running strong with no major leaks but still crossing my fingers lmao

[@rogereade4950]

Also the shitty oil seals and gaskets.

[@mohammadhayatca3244]

have N52, 528xi .. at 258,251kms. smooth a silk. I drive it for work daily for 5 years and it is my weekend car now. Soo nice and buttery smooth. compared to the turbo engines..N55 . N54.... I do oil changes myself.. and will keep it as long as it runs. replaced coolant reservoir tank & cap, coolant flush, new bosch radiator, mickey mouse flange, electric water pump and thermostate @ 154, kms. Tension pulley and belt changed at 200, 000 kms. small leak on the oil pan... but it is does not bother me. keep checking the oil level, changing full synthetic 5W-40oil at 7, 000 kms intervals. long live NA engine.. N52... great video... thanks updloading

[@dropdeadgaming9163]

This video was very informative, well put together. Learned a lot of new things about my engine. Thank you !

[@bobaphat3676]

I have the N52B25 in 325i guise. Great little engine, for 160kw the fuel economy is not too bad. Once you take care of the gaskets (Oil filter housing, Valve cover, oil pan), CCV and water pump - they are great. I've had mine for 80k km so far, reliable by BMW standards. Don't expect corolla reliability, they need more care. Great vid! I learned a lot.

[@speedkar99]

They sure need to be cared. Most BMW owners don't maintain them as they should

[@spicysnowman8886]

I find it very difficult to get good fuel economy in my e90 328i 6mt because I just can't stay out of the throttle, I'm so tempted to floor it and row through the gears everytime the road is clear.

[@bobaphat3676]

@@spicysnowman8886 yeh it nice to ring the engine out because of its linear power delivery.

[@rag3xplicit202]

This is the engine my bmw has and I really appreciate you doing this video. It has helped me come to understand my engine a lot more and you have earned a new sub this video was a great video to learn from. Thanks and keep it up!

[@speedkar99]

Glad you appreciate my work. How has your engine held up?

[@rag3xplicit202]

@@speedkar99 it’s held up great the previous owner took really good care of it only problems I’ve had was the starter and pcv system

[@ChewbaccaFetus]

Such a great engine when maintained as it should be. I’ve owned mine for 4 1/2 years and have had no issues other than 2 minor oil leaks and a fried starter. Exceptional engineering.

[@speedkar99]

How much did the oil leak cost you?

[@ChewbaccaFetus]

@@speedkar99 whatever the OFHG and eccentric shaft sensor gasket cost, it didn’t cost me much since I replaced them myself. The eccentric shaft sensor is quite expensive though haha

[@spicysnowman8886]

@@ChewbaccaFetus was there any warning when your starter went? I'm a little worried about mine, it still starts every time but I know it can fail.

[@DjNikGnashers]

Here in England, we have plenty of inline 6 BMW engines still being sold. The B58 in my M140i is awesome, even though it is turbocharged, hardly any lag at all.

[@speedkar99]

This video is about natural aspirated. Very different experience.

[@DjNikGnashers]

@@speedkar99 Yes I know mate, I watched the video. The title doesn't say anything about naturally aspirated though, just 'the last inline 6 engine BMW N52' .......... I loved the M52 engine in my E36 328i especially after fitting the M50 engine manifold, and Simota carbon fibre induction kit. It loved to rev. Oh, and I have owned a few BMW's, all with straight 6 engines, and one M40 diesel 4 pot, yet none of them have leaved or even used a drop of oil between servicing, so your opinion of them is biased and wrong. I work in the motor trade too.

[@E9X330]

@@DjNikGnashers you are lucky then, i haven't seen a single bmw over 100k that doesn't leak hahaha

[@laplays6916]

@@DjNikGnashers I'm guessing you probably didn't get that many leaks because it is a much cooler climate in England and Europe which probably explains why the plastic doesn't break. In the US and well especially here in Australia, the climate is much warmer which does ware off plastics. But yeah the older inline 6 engines are quite good.

[@DjNikGnashers]

@@laplays6916 There were a small number of BMW engines which did have issues, and these were very much exaggerated to give the impression that the numbers of failures were a lot larger than the actual truth. Modern BMW engines are incredible, and there are still some great straight 6's .... It is people who get their information from rumours and internet bro' science who 'think' they know the truth, but in fact, they only have a very biased input of information to base their own opinions on. But we know how stupid and easily influenced some clowns are. When you have worked in the motor trade yourself for years, like me, you tend to have a much more truthful and realistic opinion of things.

[@adamturowski8948]

19:02 You can spot in the oil pan two broken screw heads from the VANOS gear.

[@mohnnadmercedes8246]

High compression GDI turbo engines are ruined the reliability of all kinds of cars

[@speedkar99]

Sigh. Something to be said for naturally aspirated, especially inline 6

[@gluee8674]

shit hauls ass tho

[@ioandragulescu6063]

that's exactly why I wanted a car with small, normally aspirated inline 4 engine, in 2017. Luckily, Mazda had me covered :)

[@Bang_Jaws]

I have that same engine running in my F10 for 11 years and i can vouch for the reliability. The only thing that fails are head gasket and coil packs. And yeah, i think i need to check that plastic tensioner. Great video man, really helpful.

[@speedkar99]

Awesome! Have you had to replace the head gasket? I didn't read about that issue

[@Bang_Jaws]

@@speedkar99 Yes, i had it replaced. I live in a hot area and at that time my radiator was leaking so my engine overheats. So when the oil temp suddenly rises, i pulled over, towed it to a shop and asked to check the head gasket and yeah it cracked. Luckily, the engine is fine and labor is dirt cheap in my country so it didn't make me broke.

[@mzaite]

@@Bang_Jaws You got real lucky! Usually you get a head WARP not just a popped gasket with a coolant loss.

[@spicysnowman8886]

@@Bang_Jaws I had the radiator issue as well but luckily I caught it before my engine got hot.

[@koksinsh]

Excellent teardown, so complex.

[@speedkar99]

Thank you

[@onecookieboy]

You should see the Audi 3.2 v6 he tears down, that is complex!

[@ThaLoinKing]

I just bought a new N52 engine for my 2006 bmw 325i. Old engine had over 160K miles, new enginr has 90K! Glad to know what the internals looks like. Great video my dude

[@speedkar99]

Thanks and best of luck with the new motor. What was wrong with it?

[@anthonygillesse7242]

My 530xit has 210k on it and runs like new 160k is barely broken in unless the BMW oil change schedule was followed. 7k no longer better before that.

[@samson2143]

Only 160? Yikes

[@xXSQPRXx]

can you do a BMW diesel m57 engine? I'm curious about their diesel engines and your take on them

[@rsxjackal]

BMW's diesel engines need no introduction, it's either very good M47, M51, M57, N57 or very crappy ones like M21, B57, M67 and, oh god, B37... They all reliable because, first of all, it's diesel thus lower operating temperatures, there's more oil in the block, torque is available right from the idle so you don't need to push pedal to hard, second, there's no crappy electronics, no VANOS no Valvetronic, no EC thermostat. It's simple as rock, prolly built like rock too, which is a good thing, because cyl sleeves made from cast iron. They got their moments like glow plugs and harmonic balancers but it's nothing compared to gas engine. I got 2004 E46 with M47N engine and after 350k km i ONLY changed oil and filters and had basically 0 issues with this engine. I own 11 different cars and believe me, BMWs is the best to work on them.

[@Pn3uma33]

Though it was slightly hard for me to keep up (it's okay, I have pause and rewind), OUTSTANDING VIDEO! VERY informative! Thank you! Didn't realize the N52 was that complex.

[@Saida561]

Great Video the N52 is the last BMW lightweight and technologically advanced I6 Naturally Aspirated Engine that makes 195kw/315nm that's a lot this engine is starting to get a lot of recognition lately or it's just KZbin algorithm because when it came the N53/ N54 took its spot light and its proved its self as a reliable unit.

[@lufan6353]

2007 328i RWD owner here. Started owning the car since 2014, at 118000kms. Done the water pump, starter, camshaft position sensor, valve cover cracked and replaced all gaskets on valve cover, oil filter housing gasket. Power steering fluid had to be flushed due to burning smell. Ac blower motor failed. Shock absorbers replaced at 160000kms. Transmission fluid and rear differential fluid was replaced at 155000km in 2019, and it made a world of difference. I felt the car was at least 30 horses more powerful, also faster to shift. Oil pan has been leaking since 2016, but I didn't fix it, since it wasn't really damaging other parts, and it was a very difficult job. Driving the car is a lot of fun. Now the car is at 185000kms. Still daily driving it.

[@terbangbebas3685]

please help, can u use n52b25 crankshaft into the b30

[@speedkar99]

Not sure

[@Danlikescheesteaks]

Just discovered your channel. Probably watched 10 teardowns so far. They're addicting! And you don't waste any time, the whole video is information. Hoping you do a teardown of a Mercedes M112 or M113 someday. That's what's in my car. 160k and not a single engine-related issue since I bought it with 91k. Even then, I think the previous owner only had to do a crank sensor. Runs like a clock.

[@ezbeanss]

An awesome video on one of my favorite engines!!! Thank you for making this video!!!

[@speedkar99]

Welcome

[@evanasche8882]

Got this engine in my 328 and I've been very impressed with it. Never had a leak anywhere (knock on wood) and I've had it for well over two years and about 35,000 miles I put on it (182,000+ in total). I would actually recommend a 328 with an n52 as a first car if they want to learn how to work on something different and unique!

[@Andrew-jn9yp]

My 4.0 with 225,000 doesnt leak a drop

[@DefyDistrict]

my 328 at 180k miles does leak oil. still a great engine

[@konstantintomilin1826]

It worth mentioning that if you have an oil leak from the eccentric shaft position sensor o-ring that is located in the front of the valve cover, it should be replaced ASAP. Otherwise the oil will get into the sensor and destroy it, and replacement of the sensor is a pain.

[@speedkar99]

Good point. Another leak point on these 😦

[@daliborzak2485]

I have 306 000 kms on my N52 3.0 l. Looks like previous owners changed oil regularly in shorter intervals cause the engine is clean inside with no sludge and other crap. And I'm surprised it still takes not more than 1 l of oil for 10 000 km, which is miracle for old BMW.

[@MakhloufA]

I have a 2006 530i e60 with the n52 engine it's got 275000km on the odo, the only things that I replaced are the spark plugs and the coils, I bought it 2 years ago.

[@MakhloufA]

It has been a great car

[@bartsimpson2551]

06 530i owner aswell just over 200000 miles great car fun to drive very reliable

[@MakhloufA]

@@bartsimpson2551 it has 370000km now but i have replaced the water pump, upper coolant hose, transmission cooler, ccv and steering rack other than that it still feels great to drive

[@maxheadroom224]

11:59 I'm pretty sure the bmw TSB says to just rev the engine to 3k for 2 min when cold starting to fix lifter ticking noises. 5w-40 in cold climates doesn't like abuse when it's not warmed up exacerbating oiling issues on startup.

[@speedkar99]

So just warm it up?

[@moham1287]

Great engine and great vide as always! I would love to see you do a dissection of an M50/52/54, the evolutions of which ran from the e30 to the e46 primarily. They don’t have all the fancy Valvetronic stuff but they’re stout and “classic BMW”

[@speedkar99]

I have better than that...an M62 sitting here waiting for it's teardown.

[@GadgetMart]

Wouldn’t call a magnesium engine great. Built in obsolescence Your better off with the M54, at least you have a fighting chance of repairing it

[@GPR111]

E63, 630i, 18 yrs old, 150,000 miles, daily runner. Very occasional tappet rattle when cold but otherwise silky smooth and quiet. Not planning to retire the car until at least 175,000 next year. Only issue is a completely random hesitation from a closed throttle (feels like fuelling?), otherwise its bang on.

[@drewhender3999]

You're right about it being the last in the US, but Europe got the N53 which is essentially an N54 without the turbochargers

[@speedkar99]

Yeah last here in North America

[@Krezo200]

Got my third n52 I also had 4 m52 and 5 m54 as well as 2 n55 and 1 n54 and 6 non r6 engines Great engines, enjoyed them

[@speedkar99]

Burn and leak oil?

[@Krezo200]

@@speedkar99 nearly everyone had a valve cover gasket that needed to be replaced Some m54 drank oil but it was all okay

[@traubengott9783]

​@@Krezo200every engine I know gets bad valve cover gaskets, sealing materials are just not resistant to engine oil. Bit how did you go through so many cars/engines!?!!

[@Krezo200]

@@traubengott9783 it was my hobby Had 25 cars so far, often 2-3 at once

[@jackdarcy6294]

crazy how they KNEW the plastic valve covers leak like a sieve after the M54, and STILL put them on N engines.

[@greebj]

early N52 had metal cover. typical BMW, engineers build great stuff, then the accountants go and ruin it for everyone Plastic is harder to torque properly, less forgiving esp to overtorque, I'm not defending their unforgivable use of plastic parts, they can just be rendered even less reliable by minor user error

[@mikemarkestein471]

While this actually isn't the last NA I6 BMW has produced, they aren't far apart. The last NA I6 BMW made is actually the N53, which came in both the N53B25 and the N53B30 variants. It's basically a slightly altered N52 engine, with one of the big changes being direct injection instead of piezo injection. Since we've owned a N52 E61 and now a N53 E60, I can definitely confirm the oil leaky part about it ;) hehe. The video is super great though, and thanks for going through it in great detail! Cleared a lot of things up! Always good to learn new things about your car!

[@joebloggs4191]

N53 wasn't available in all markets whereas the N52 was which is why it it often said to be the last NA inline 6 from BMW when actually it wasn't in some markets. On the whole though I think the N52 is better without the direct injection of the N53.

[@brianlobo1512]

@@joebloggs4191 Agreed. The N53 didn’t have the 3 stage intake of the N52, IIRC. The simpler valve cover and port injection are a plus of the N52.

[@greebj]

happened before N52->N53 switch, later N52s (N & K variants) also lost the 3 stage/DISA intake and therefore some power, somehow with all this they managed to make the whole plastic valve cover with pcv integrated setup that was both less reliable AND cost more, smh @ BMW

[@MoBangFoYoBucks]

Haha The Mrs. helped to dissect the engine! 💯👍 Enjoyed your video everytime! Catch you later on your next vlog.

[@speedkar99]

Yep she sure helped

[@nativeflight7079]

Would it be possible to overhaul the engine and make more power?

[@speedkar99]

Other than cleaning valves I don't see much power gains by rebuilding

[@bertsmith7013]

The N53 engine was the last NA BMW straight 6.

[@somonides1]

Nope, N53 ended earlier.

[@bertsmith7013]

@@somonides1 you'll find that in Europe it ran until 2013

[@somonides1]

@@bertsmith7013 N52 ran until 2015.

[@bertsmith7013]

@@somonides1 I think the serial number gives you a clue has to which was designed first N52 - N53. BMW moves forward with numbers not backwards, ie N52, N53, N54, N55 etc. Stop it now, you're starting to sound stupid.

[@somonides1]

@@bertsmith7013 Jesus fucking christ, N52 was obviously before N53, but N53 ended before N52 and N52 continued till 2015 in asia, so its the last in-line 6 atmospheric engine to be put in a bmw, its your turn to stop sounding stupid now.

[@funkycarlover]

Description work on point, great formatting king

[@speedkar99]

Glad you appreciate my work!

[@gabeishere4990]

You should review the M54, arguably BMW's best i6 engine ever

[@joebloggs4191]

The best inline 6 is this N52, so powerful yet so economical too, much better than the M54!

[@AdamAus85]

Aye, lovely engine and great for the DIYer.

[@mattandallthings]

My dog lives with my parents. My previous 3 cars would ensure my dog is expecting me when I open the front door and visit. Since purchasing my 2011 323i N52, he is totally surprised at me arriving. My point being, these engines are so quiet and stealth, not even a dog can notice.😂

[@kclefthanded427]

Composite is just a fancy word for plastic. If the valve covers and the timing chain guides were made of aluminum, then BMW made something awesome. Better gaskets could help too

[@speedkar99]

Good point. These engines we're made for light weight and economy first while still hitting the warranty end date in terms of longevity.

[@uhtred7860]

Ive heard this from many BMW enthusiasts and BMW mechanics, that the ones assembled in Germany are better/more reliable than the US assembled ones.

[@kclefthanded427]

@@uhtred7860 beware of the Chinese made 4-cylinders

[@uhtred7860]

@@kclefthanded427 Any auto made in china will most likely be atrocious, i once saw a chinese knock off of a Honda 50cc generator engine, the Honda made ones are legendary in their longevity, this one had no sump plug and no oil filler cap, the oil was put in through the tappet ajuster screw cap at the factory and was supposed to last the lifetime of the engine, which wasnt very long, then when it popped you were supposed to buy another. CCP ? Complete Crap Producers.

[@kornaros96]

@@uhtred7860 that's true

[@shifty1927]

I have an 04 530 with an m54 and 200k miles later its still going. Now I'm looking into getting a 128 and I've been hearing great things about the n52

[@lorenzlachmayr9445]

Get one bro, I got a 130i with lots of miles and it still runs perfectly fine

[@chriss6154]

Honest question here. How do you know so many things about so many different areas of a vehicle while so young. Ita like you went to school for years then applied it for another 10 yrs Trans, vvt this, that, whatever complex system on the vehicle it's like you helped design it. I'm not kissing ur butt I'm honestly curious

[@speedkar99]

I learn as you learn here, pulling the actual thing apart and investigating by myself. I don't go to school for this stuff, no school will teach you like this.

[@taquechi2]

True that oil leaks are a problem with this engine. Here's a tip: I use a UV flashlight and fluorescent oil (liquimoly) to check for leaks on my E93. It really helps! Now I know for sure that the "leak" BMW wanted $1,000 to fix was actually them spilling oil during an oil change. I also did a test on an old belt and even a drop of oil is easily noticeable with the UV light. So now I can check in an instant if my belt has any oil on it and (hopefully!) avoid the dreaded belt-into-crank seal car killer.

[@mzaite]

"was actually them spilling oil during an oil change." Twice they tried to do that to me. It seeps down in exactly the same spot that it would with a real leak, and it's a pain to get in and clean.

[@hanmonic]

the x-drive oil pan bit got me good. hit a kerb hard, boom your axle just put a hole in your oil pan.

[@CrankshaftsMotors]

Love the N52 I have in my E90. Lovely with a 6MT. Seriously looking for another in the form of a 128i Cabriolet with a 6MT. A few tasteful mods and it's a great summer car....

[@carlloftin2850]

Did the BMW engineers get a bonus for adding complexity to the design?

[@speedkar99]

I think that's expected

[@carenthusiast1629]

I also did not know the oil sensor also analyze the quality of the oil. Awesome.

[@A2dy]

I love these engine teardown videos! Please do one on the Volvo Drive-e 4 cylinders! So few videos on them

[@speedkar99]

Glad you enjoyed it! I probably won't teardown new engines (soon) but I did do a Volvo 5 cylinder engine teardown last year!

[@1SaG]

I had a few days with this kind of engine in a 125i convertible. Amazingly smooth, eager to rev and the sound was pretty good for a stock engine. Getting into an old school, NA 6-cylinder BMW when you're used to 4-pots is quite an eye-opener WRT smoothness and general "engine manners". It did feel a bit underpowered, despite its more than decent hp-rating, but that was probably just the car being overweight.

[@DanteTheAbyssalBeing]

How is it that BMW engines still leak oil after so many decades of production? You'd think they'd learn how to make functional gaskets at some point.

[@speedkar99]

As long as they last the warranty or lease period

[@liudas5377]

Thanks for the tour - I have a s52b32us

[@mecronmancer7958]

You should do a teardown of the BMW M50/M52 engines dude. Really solid.

[@speedkar99]

Awesome

[@DnBBHox]

late to the party, but @16:53 I'm pretty sure the bolts are aluminum to avoid galvanic corrosion, and thermal expansion- i.e. as the whole thing heats up, the, say, pan, block, and bolts all deform the same amount, keeping things tight.

[@JayKay_123]

This isn’t the last NA inline 6 BMW made... the N53 built after the N52

[@halogod0298]

Not in the us

[@tjallaballa]

​@@halogod0298 Who the hell cares? The statement is incorrect.

[@halogod0298]

@@tjallaballa everyone in the U S. You know, where the channel is located

[@tjallaballa]

@@halogod0298 What is even that argument. The internet is international. He could have wrote "the last NA BMW straight six that made it to North America". No wonder americans have no clue about european cars

[@halogod0298]

@@tjallaballa no one cares dawg, it’s a simple mistake. He is American and didn’t know about the engine, relax. As far as him and most of his viewers, it’s the last one. You got a license to be this big of a dickhead?

[@BrakRulesAll]

"Part of what makes this engine a real BMW is that it leaks oil...". As a current and many-in-the-past BMW owner, this has me in stitches. He ain't wrong!

[@alexandermenck6609]

Properly serviced BMW engines do not. Craftsmanship is a bit different here in Germany.

[@BrakRulesAll]

@@alexandermenck6609 Nonsense. I've had several "properly" serviced BMWs that leaked. Virtually all of them do eventually. Oil lifter housing, valve cover gaskets (among other spots) notorious for leaking.

[@AlCabanas]

N53 was the latest ☺️

[@speedkar99]

Not in North America

[@syukirosan]

its basically the same thing

[@FreakkyJack]

@@syukirosan its Not. The n53 is direct injection the n52 isnt. BiG difference. No n53 in america because of the poor fuel quality (too much sulfur)

[@tykendrick800]

on the 08 n52 is there suppose to be a grip disk washer or some other type of washer on the crank bub. i took mines apart and only have oil pump and vac pump gears on my crank hub bolt. im sure i didn't drop it. im positive there was never one on there

[@speedkar99]

I don't recall that on this motor

[@AbdulHaq11901]

Thought n53 was last one?

[@Kakiharaichii]

This is a good engine, just keep up with the maintenance and check the plastic parts regularly.

[@adrianguggisberg3656]

This is probably the best low emission engine in existence, and generally one of the best engines ever. By the way, it isn't BMW's last inline 6 nor their last naturally aspirated. However, poor petrol quality standards prohibit the introduction of BMW's current naturally aspirated i6 to the American market.

[@speedkar99]

Good to know.

[@igorslagalo2378]

Best channel on KZbin.

[@mieczniuk]

Meanwhile N53: Am I joke to you ?

[@speedkar99]

In North America, yes.

[@Meatpipeify]

The M54 and N52 are BMW's last great inline 6's. While the N52 is a great engine, the M54 sounds way better.

[@pcnepal]

To service the engine in situ is nearly impossible, damn German engineering!

[@speedkar99]

Yeah that's unfortunate

[@uhtred7860]

@@speedkar99 The master of the understatement. :-)

[@pcnepal]

For the added complexity and the components' weight in order to get rid of the throttle body, I would live with the pumping loss for sure!

[@SHADOWBONELESS]

The fact is due to the very long hood , most work can be done when it in the car.

[@tomlewis3658]

This was very interesting, especially being able to illustrate the Valvetronic and VANOS systems. Thanks.

[@mohammadgoharayyub5979]

As always best Thank you sir :)

[@speedkar99]

Thanks

[@oODraglidOo]

What do you do with all of these engines after disassembly ?

[@lordjaashin]

scrap most likely

[@pcnepal]

Ebay listings for any good components.

[@speedkar99]

See my latest post on the community tab, Instagram or Facebook. Upcycling 😎