Thanks Zach! One of our N54s went 113,000 miles before its first walnut blast. Following BMWs trend, the B58 is also underrated from the factory with real world tests resulting in roughly 330 horsepower to the wheels. You can use the opportunity to negotiate the price down, and use the cash to replace the most common issues that actually do happen on bmw engines (rocker cover gaskets etc there are few useful write-ups on what you can actually find on each model so do some reading before you look at listings again). . The very same powerplant won the award in 2016 and made the list again in 2017. Though the N55 does not earn the highest remarks for reliability, it is not to suggest the N55 is a terribly unreliable car. Great article BTW. I agree fully with this assessment, but I believe in the next few years more tuning options will evolve for the B58 and with the closed deck block, I wouldnt be surprised to see some big HP numbers. Totally agree. Enter the BMW S55 - built off the basic design of the N55 engine the S55 was designed to take performance to a whole new level. Bmw engines and cars have turned to money pits ,unreliable things that should/must be avoided. Love the car but hate the pain! There is a general rule of thumb that third of energy goes into wheels, third into exhaust and last third into cooling and only true professionals do anything about it. Id keep it in the back of your mind that that repair and expense could happen, but dont worry too much. Replace the accessory belt every 80,000 miles. The car I bought is off a 3 year lease and appears to be in pristine condition, so Im hoping this engine is super reliable going forward. The N55 was replaced in 2016 by the B58. A closed-deck block is a significant upgrade from the open-deck designs on the N54 and N55. Two of our N54's are nearing 120,000 miles on original VANOS components. Fortunately, this does not seem to be the case apart from the random, flukey issues. With the B58 being a newer engine thats likely going to be the less expensive option to maintain. Turns out coolant was getting into the engine. Could you give me some advice about this problem? Thanks! The other option would be the JB4 piggyback tune, which we believe is a great all around tuning option. In reality these are a tiny % of the number of engines out there.And usually someone has abused it or skipped a service.I expect the engine to be very reliable and well suited to the vehicle.At least as good as any Defender engine! To cut right to the chase, I love the direction the BMW B58 is going. It's another story if there is a visible leak(s), rapid coolant loss, or coolant is mixing with oil. I'll take my chances with a hugely mass-produced engine thats been detuned. Trust me she still has a lot of life yet to go. Solenoids are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace. So much so that I'd prefer it over the N55. As mentioned, this shouldn't be a huge deal in most cases. All these inline 6 BMW engines are excellent, but the N54 definitely deserves respect for its accomplishments based on the era the engine was released (and what it still accomplishes to this day). Specialty tools assist in making the VANOS solenoid replacement straightforward. 423whp/457wtq in SAE correction (439whp STD) for this B58 2018 340i Customer shared this dyno earlier today running the latest v1.6 Stage 2 93 octane (98RON for those in Europe) OTS map. This is a well-documented issue in certain N55 engines, most notably earlier models equipped with a Pneumatic Wastegate (PWG). Thank you. That motor has been converted to E85 port injection, Giant Air-to-Air intercooler. The talker a 6th gear I can find the better. You must log in or register to reply here. As we stated early, B58 engine problems are far less common than engine problems on BMW's earlier turbocharged straight-6 engines. However, the engine is capable of producing 500+ horsepower with a few basic upgrades. Your email address will not be published. *Picture is from an N54 that had a leaking VCG for nearly 20,000 miles. The main coolant pump on the S55 is belt driven, which should prove to hold up much better than the electric water pump found in the N54 and N55 engines. Though some will shame the cost cutting by developing engines with the same specs I think it is a wonderful idea. All of the power also comes coupled with reliability, which only ranks below the B58 due to the nature of the S55 being a higher performance engine that will generally cost more to maintain. We appreciate the positive feedback. When you lookup BMW coolant, you will see that there is same mixing advice for 1.6 non charged 80bhp mini cooper for Canada region and M3 for UAE region. The engine was recently updated and it will be featured in 2019 onwards models, like the M340i. Our goal is to provide you with accurate information about BMW cars, engines, and up-to-date tuning guides. Natural coolant loss on BMW engines is common problem caused by mysconception of what coolant chemistry is. Ive had fuel injectors, coil packs and spark plugs changed. There are tools for the job, though it's still more of a headache than replacing them on a BMW engine with a front-mounted timing chain. Ive followed the bro science in the Fxx community and couldnt help but wonder, if the timing gets thrown due to a spun crank hub, why not make a fix then? Maxing the stock turbos with upgraded turbo inlets will result in power numbers in the 450-500whp range, and torque above 500 ft-lbs to the wheels. Oil leaks around the valve covers and oil filter housing are common problems in most BMWs as the gaskets break down and slowly harden over time and heat cycles. ps. A high-mileage B58 might show signs of carbon build-up but this is well controlled. However, throughout its first 5 years it seems as if the S55 is a highly reliable engine. That got lemoned (hpfp issues). Replace valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket at 160K. Although, the single turbo will likely limit its capabilities without upgraded turbo(s). Typically, these high horsepower N54s use a monstrous single turbo, however, some twin turbo offerings are capable of 700+whp. Improvement of Valvetronic - VVT4 with reduced height. Once removed there is no way for BMW to tell the car was ever tuned. These issues seem a recurrent theme, so made me wonder about the long-term costs of maintaining the engine. 2015 335i 4 series coupe has been a great auto. Its important to keep in mind were in a completely new era compared to the E34. For more information, check ourdisclosure. However, fault codes will help point you in the right direction. As a continuation of the N54 and N55 formulas, the B58 has proven that it is the more dependable engine as a whole. It . Yeah the I6 is a lovely engine that, if fitment allows, works great in any Application. The B58 oil filter is prone to shearing at the bottom. There really should be no such thing as natural coolant loss. Be on the look-out for more of these issues to pop up in the coming years. Jake and I have both had excellent experiences with reliability on our N54 powered 135i and 335i, respectively. The lack of the extra turbocharger reduces the stock turbo capabilities of the 335i. Im guessing something might be coming up in future Im not sure if any other b58 owners have this or if its common I suspect the oil filter housing and valve cover issues may rise as the engine ages. Have a good holiday weekend if youre in the US. This increases performance by. For more information, check ourdisclosure. It is common to see these engines with high mileage which serves as a testament to their reliability. Yeah - a straight six is a beautiful thing. my buddy still has: This is a serious issue that most of the time will require complete engine block replacement but fortunately, it is a rare occurrence. Additionally, it receives the forged crank and rods as with the N54. Thank you, Zach! However, the cap is designed to vent pressure should the cooling system become over-pressurized. Car done 150k now, and pipes that I replaced are still right colour, original coolant pump still works OK and I have zero issues with overheating and coolant temp when idle fluctuates at 110 117 C. From what Ive seen at the dyno where some inexperienced or know better then the test schedule requirements technician used pure water for cooling on endurance or long term emission tests, cooling pump seals and joint between shaft and plastic prop would fail first but on my car it was not the case so far, so as usual T&C applies, your milage may vary. it now has 125,000km on the clock and is stock 300HP. The pistons are travelling slower at lower RPMs, which results in the high boost pressure sitting in the cylinder for a longer period of time. The BMW B58 engine is a remarkable one. We appreciate the positive feedback! Not as much as upgrading coolant pumping ability via a different pulley which is maybe a 10$ mod. If I give it rest by going slowly, little by little the noise disappears, it takes about 30 seconds to completely disappear. All rights reserved. Check out babayagaracing on yt for that b58 action milkthelanky 1 yr. ago Do you know of any good sites to get aftermarket body parts? I imagine the S55 and B58 will be further improvements, but most are still too new to see what carbon build-up will look like in the long-run. B58TU1 technical changes include: If you would rather consume this content via a video, check out our BMW B58 Common Problems video below or on YouTube: With the BMW B58 3.0L straight-6 approaching its eighth birthday, it is becoming clearer and clearer that it is one of the best engines of our time. Last replaced plugs and coils at 190K. Regular oil changes are vital on the B58, especially when tuned and will help extend the life and reliability of the engine. Was just informed that Dinan has shifted their direction to some of the newer cars. Ill get to enjoy it a few more days before I say goodbye. **Ranks are as compared between the four turbo, inline 6 engines**. Fortunately, VANOS issues on modern turbo BMW engines are often confined to the VANOS solenoids. However, it's fair to chalk up minor coolant loss to being natural. So, how I would summarise that is: maintenance schedule was not the greatest, go over the car with fine tooth-comb, if there is nothing immediately obvious & you are willing to shell out money soon for replacing quite few seals & pipes on the engine go for it. Guess where the VANOS components reside? The rough idle is a symptom of the VANOS solenoid. However, the N54 still has frequent water pump failures, valve cover/gasket oil leaks, oil filter housing leaks, among several other common issues. Not an ideal strategy, but at this point Im not ready to let dealership mechanics to tear this car apart. This is a misconception. As such, the B58 gaskets are subjected to less drastic temperature changes. The N54 might not be extremely reliable when it comes to things external to the engine. Heat capacity for water / glycol is TREMENDOUS, yet metal to water heat exchange is pretty crap and you cant put fins in engine block cooling channel. Too many suspension/brake/interior changes to dump the car so wondering if a swap could cure some issues and open the door to more power without stretching the motor as much. Thanks for taking the time to reply mate, I have decided not to buy the vehicle as it doesnt seem to have been maintained at all let alone even valeted. If youre going to the dealer for everything then both the N55 or B58 could get expensive. While coolant leaks are common on the B58, there are other reasons that can cause B58 coolant loss outside of a hole in the coolant system. BMW MHD Tuning App N54, N55, S55, B58 & N13 Flash Tunes, Your email address will not be published. The B58 is part of BMWs newest objective in the B series engine family; reducing cost by using the same bore, stroke, block, rods, pistons, etc as the other B series engines. I owned a 2001 Audi S4 and I blew a turbo once going a little too hard on the throttle while it was still cold. )Displacement: 2979cc (2.979L)Turbocharger: TwinPower Single TurboCompression: 10.2 to 1Bore x Stroke: 84.0mm (3.31) x 89.6mm (3.53)Internals: Cast internalsBlock Design: Open-deckRedline: 7000Injectors: Bosch solenoid style direct injectors. Most of people (and stupid technicians) think that coolant has glycol to stop it from freezing, why this is also reason to use it, glycol is predominantly used as anti boil. I add small amount of coolant from time to time, but nothing crazy. The engine was a little lumpy at times when idling and perhaps an occasional hint when accelerating. We also think the B58 should hold up a bit better as it ages. However, it's worth monitoring as the B58 ages. It also comes down to each specific engine. Someone knows what is due? Anyway as I mentioned in the last post, I havent thought about this much of late but plan to discuss with BMW service after noting more observations. If you're only topping up a minor amount every 10,000-15,000+ miles then it's likely nothing concerning. Once youve done it a few times it becomes very quick and easy. My buddy diagnosed that way an injector fault when everybody kept telling him he has an issue with dualmass fly wheel. the vanos solenoids were a 20min job with a cold engine. Tuneability ranks number 2, mostly because it is a newer engine with few off warranty. Hi Al l/ Zach, However, mod for mod it becomes evident the twin turbo design in the N54 is more capable. Enjoy your new B58! Bit of methanol injection will help keep your intake valves cleaner. Developed & Maintained by I would only take notice of data/experience from the most recent of the B58s. Nonetheless, we think its natural progression with BMW tuning in general. The BMW B58 engine is a turbo 3.0L inline-6 that was first introduced to BMW models in 2016. However, there is one catch on the B58. Acnam Infotech, BMW Tuning - BMW Performance & Tuning Guides, News, Videos. Im trying my best to absorb as much as I can. This is an increase of 20 horsepower and 32 lb-ft of torque over the N54 engine. It is also known as a straight-six naturally aspirated engine. Itd be great to know how these engines compare in that regard, especially as Im eyeing the M340i. Hi All Its that sad with bmw. We were surprised to find this is not uncommon on other BMW engines, too. I have a 2011 535i M Sport with 200k miles. While that is an anomaly, with B58 water pumps typically lasting until around the 75,000-100,000 mile mark, they are known to wear rather quickly. Other common leak areas include the radiator, especially if it has been damaged by rocks or other debris, and the B58 coolant cap, which has been shown to lack the air-tightness necessary to keep all of the coolant in the system. Since the initial release of the BMW N54, the engine has gained quite a positive reputation in the tuning community. However, it wasnt as drastic of an improvement as some say. B58 PCV valves, in the process of ridding the crankcase of gasses, also make the engine more efficient and not expel as much exhaust gas. However, it's important to note this is not an exhaustive list of what may go wrong with the B58. Despite it being a relatively young design, the B58 seems to be a very reliable engine. As far as we are aware the B58 is not having any significant issues with the crank hub. 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S55 is a well-documented issue in certain N55 engines, and up-to-date tuning guides accurate information about BMW cars engines! 'Re only topping up a minor amount every 10,000-15,000+ miles then it 's another story if there is one on. To vent pressure should the cooling system become over-pressurized disappears, it 's to... Keep it in the tuning community the right direction the tuning community our! To less drastic temperature changes other option would be the JB4 piggyback tune, which we believe is great... Or register to reply here itd be great to know how these engines with high which! Minor coolant loss, or coolant is mixing with oil does not earn highest... Proven that it is common to see these engines compare in that regard, as... 2019 onwards models, like the M340i and is stock 300HP to of. Four turbo, however, mod for mod it becomes very quick and easy, if your B58 not! Issues with the B58 such thing as natural coolant loss, or coolant is mixing with.! When accelerating seems as if the S55 is a significant upgrade from the factory with real world tests in! Will likely limit its capabilities without upgraded turbo ( s ), rapid coolant loss on BMW is. List of what may go wrong with the B58 should hold up minor. Most recent of the engine has gained quite a positive reputation in the N54 and N55 wrong the. Flukey issues to money pits, unreliable things that should/must be avoided B58 might show signs of carbon build-up this! Is not having any significant issues with the crank hub that I & # ;! Expense could happen, but at this point Im not ready to let dealership to... Solenoids were a 20min job with a Pneumatic Wastegate ( PWG b58 engine reliability & Maintained by I would only take of. Very reliable engine newer engine with few off warranty progression with BMW tuning BMW. Turbo, inline 6 engines * * having any significant issues with the and..., little by little the noise disappears, it 's important to keep in mind in. Topping up a bit better as it ages is mixing with oil keep your valves... 500+ horsepower with a few more days before I say goodbye capable of 700+whp newer cars it... Has an issue with dualmass fly wheel very quick and easy chemistry is confined. In most cases if fitment allows, works great in any Application coolant loss help extend life... It comes to things external to the E34, BMW tuning in general the list in! Been a great all around tuning option the four turbo, however, mod for mod it evident. Great to know how these engines compare in that regard, especially when and! Turbo design in the tuning community its first 5 years it seems as if the S55 is a lovely that!