BMW S65: Everything You Need To Know - The BMW E90/E92/E93 M3 Engine Guide

►The BMW M3 has always featured a high-performance engine, but of the five variations, the E9X's S65 V8 is the top dog. While not the most powerful, it captures the essence of what the M badge used to stand for with its astronomical redline and shrieking roar. However, the once range-topping M3 is now just another used example, and its S65 can be had for under $25,000.

Owning an S65-powered car is a wonderful experience for most, but it's not without its common challenges. It's a reasonably unique engine with a handful of areas that need regular attention. Failing to provide the proper amount can mean significant damage, so you really need to know what you're getting into before purchasing. But don't worry, we've got you covered.

Follow along with Alex Nelson, FCP Euro's Automotive Design Engineer, as he takes you through everything you need to know about the BMW S65 V8 engine.

00:00 - Intro
03:40 - High Mileage Examples
04:29 - Basic Maintenance Items
04:45 - S65 Oiling System
05:59 - S65 Fluids & Coolant Type
06:35 - S65 Belt Routing
07:34 - S65 Air Filters
10:05 - Fuel System Updates
13:44 - Idle Air Control Valve
14:34 - Throttle Body & Vacuum Pump
15:39 - Engine Mounts
16:36 - Ignition System
18:26 - Throttle Actuators
21:33 - Valve Covers
24:36 - VANOS Covers
25:42 - Examining the S65 Engine Out of the Car
37:35 - Wrap-up

[josephkelly]

Own a e92 335i, however I watched every second of this brilliant video, and can dream that my 6 grows up to be an 8 one day.

[MrMetsfan]

This is an unbelievably informative and compelling video. I've virtually every video and read basically every thread there is on this car, so some new information here is really refreshing. This guy clearly knows hit stuff. Amazing job.

Only thing I might ask for is some recommended service intervals on some of these items. My 09 has 68, 000 miles on it and I'm trying to determine what to do, what to wait on, and what to do while you're in there. The list seemingly never ends with this car (and according to the forums you should basically just replace every single item in the car as soon as possible), and I know age is a factor, so some more specific recommendations on mileage/age would be great!

[megaprimegamer]

Great content! More for the S65 please! I’m at 182k and going strong. Need valve cover gasket but nothing else hopefully. Rods and actuators done at 130k as pm.

[ericvermeulen]

As an f87 m2 owner I still love this platform it’s just pure ///M

[Studiosatoshi]

Hands down has been the best car I’ve ever owned

[MrHChapman]

Awesome video! You all should do a comprehensive video on the S62 as well

[Aspireonthego]

This is very in-depth, a must-watch for new and potential future owners. Fantastic!

[ltakallen]

Thank You. I feel so much more knowledgeable now. I have an E93 M3 and it’s dialed in now! I also really appreciate all the E9X content. Keep em coming 👍🏾😊 “Smiles per gallon” 😂

[kimosabe]

Excellent in format, information and most important for me..the delivery! I've been on the hunt for an e90 M3 for a while and you have given me renewal excitement. Enjoyed every minute of this!

[threefive]

nice breakdown of the motor. you should do them all !! this was great. new respect for the s65 too. i was admiring those timing chains in light of the audi 4.2 v8 ... what a mess.

[michaelkeiser]

watched this and enjoyed it even though I have a 128i LOL a man can dream!

[Loukanopoulos]

Thank you totally comprehensive- I’m glad the main bearings are getting air time

[JDMMerch]

Wow Alex doing it big now! Happy for you bro!

[g.g]

Best video on s65 on yt make for al bmw engines

[chrismccormick]

Excellent video. I know I will reference this often as my 2011 E92 ZCP gains mileage. Currently just broken in at 43k miles. It’s the plastic and rubber bits I suspect will go first and should be inspected.

[stalthyone]

Sreten from M539 Restorations has an amazing video series working on this glorious engine. It’s well worth a watch and subscription. He does some amazing work on a lot of great BMW cars. Enjoy! 🥰🥰

Edit: Here I thought I was being cool spreading my love of his channel while Alex did a shoutout to Sreten. 🤣🤣

[KM-olbs]

These engines will last as long as you're willing to maintain it and the maintenance isn't cheap.

[EuroAutoEnthusiast]

I just DIYed my rod bearings…not too bad…Main bearings will definitely be a challenge if done in my garage too 😵‍💫 Thanks for a very thorough video 👏🏽

[ElliotsM]

I love my e92 m3 I’m currently just throwing money at it for these things you have spoken about 😩 just never ending

[Ondrej]

Loved the video! Thank you for producing such a high quality overview of the S65 gem :)