BMW N54 Buyers Guide - Everything You Need to Know

►While the BMW N54 is one of the most capable, sought-after engines in the marketplace, they’re not without their faults. Here’s a complete guide on why they’re so popular, what to look for when buying one, and what could go wrong in the future. 

When you think of robust straight-six engines that have the potential to make a lot of power, what do you think of? The Toyota 2JZ and the Nissan RB26DETT might be what first comes to mind. Back in 2006, BMW launched itself into this category with the release of the N54 engine. Found in numerous BMWs for over a decade, the N54 has become one of the most popular engines that BMW has ever produced.

The N54 is a twin-turbocharged, direct injection engine, and from the factory, it made 300HP/300TQ at only 8PSI. With a simple ECU flash/tune, you can make around 380HP and around 400lb-ft of torque. Since this motor shipped with forged internals, a few mods can reveal insane power. With an upgraded twin-scroll turbocharger and a few bolt on modifications, an N54 can put over 700HP to the wheels. Check out Chad Rose's driveway-built 335xi that should be running in the 10's this season for a good example of this.

Almost all of the common issues related to the N54 aren't due to the actual engine itself; instead, they're almost always focused on the accessories. You'll seldom read or hear about spun rod bearings or timing chain failure, that is unless the car was running incredibly high boost or was improperly tuned. 

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[blrn]

Best place to buy N54 parts.
Especially if your international buyer like me from Australia.
Good prices, good service, good shipping price, good email notifications, crazy return policy which is well crazy. FCP is an awsome place.

[dvas]

Great vid. N54 is a fantastic engine overall, just needs to be maintained properly and have its problems addressed promptly. A couple additional thoughts not mentioned in this video - 1. BMW extended the turbo's warranty (at least in the 135i but I imagine in all N54s) to eight years from original purchase date or 80, 000 miles. So, many owners had their car's turbos replaced under this warranty extension, fixing the waste gate rattle. 2. Not mentioned in this video is the issue with the oil filter housing gasket, which is a common issue. It's an easy fix, but if not addressed promptly can eventually drip oil onto the belt. . This can turn into a major issue if it causes the belt to slip off the pulleys, get ripped up, brake fan belts and potentially get pulled into the engine, damaging the main seal. If you see oil puddling at the top of the oil cooled housing, just have the gasket replaced asap.

[blandocalrissian]

I was thinking "how have I never seen this video?!" and then I saw it was published today...

[mikey]

Old school mechanic here, the N54 engine are AWSOME! I have a 2007 BMW 335i twin turbo, over the years I modified the engine, now its pushing 800 horse power. Last year I installed the Vargas twin turbos. Along with a few more modifications, and the engine run perfectly. Overall great engine.

[SethDavis]

This couldn't have come at a better time. My 335i has been siting for over a year and I am finally going to be able to drive it again. Can't wait to get everything refreshed

[donaldlum]

I still have my 2008 535i with 120K miles / 200K Km. I am on my 5th water pump, second set of injectors, high pressure fuel pump replaced under warranty / recall, driver rear tail light replaced under recall, 3rd idler pulley, 2nd alternator, 3rd oil pan gasket, 2nd active steering rack and module. Just got the car back after 4 months and it is still great!

[JeffCapeci]

Thank you, I bought my N54 used with about 80K on it. The hp fuel pump had already been replaced, the water pump went before 90k but to this day and my knowledge the other items you mention are original. A similar video on the ZF6 paired with the N54 and routine maintenance needs would be appreciated as well. Thanks for sharing.

[wavy.kd]

I’m glad YouTube algorithm put this vid in my recommended feed. I was thinking about trading my g35 for a e90 335i

[johncoss]

Great information. I was told to NEVER buy a car with an N54 engine. After watching this video it doesn't sound so bad. Thanks

[JD.N]

I Paid a shop $1000 to replace my water pump, it only lasted 8 months.
I bought water pump and thermostat from FCP and did it myself today.
peace of mind.

[AsmirSut]

Surprised you didn't mention the gaskets and coils.

[jasonchayer]

Mhd + xhp + xdelete + protoolz make this plateform so epic, i can do everything myself with cellphone, i just love my 135i !!

[georfemeyer]

You guys help keep my N54 alive thank you

[ArtemDzhadzha]

I bought my N54 in 2016, where have you been all this time guys? :) Anyway, the internet has tons of info about N54, and after some research, I also ended up buying all parts from FCP. Transmission kit, driveshaft repair parts, filters, spark plugs and coils, steering fluid, control arms and Bilsteins B6. So far so good.

[Iwillnotbepushed]

I have already resigned myself to removing the front clip if the turbos go bad. Beyond that BMW’s are not that hard to work on contrary to a lot of conversations out there. I’m a Master Plumber that does my own mechanic work. I have an N54. This is my second BMW. To be honest it’s the easiest car I have ever worked on. YouTube is a huge help of course.

[bg-serq]

My 35 had every one of these issues.. love/hate relationship. Appreciate the video!

[SimplyTHC]

priceless!!! literally the best video on youtube . give true description and excellent information !

[kendredjones]

Ive owned an 07 n54 for about 2 years now, I love the Now it does need much more care than most cars but when its running well its fantastic. Not to mention most of the stuff that plagues this platform is easily DIY

[omarmujahed]

First bmw was an n54 535xi 2008. Ive used fcp since day one. Now i feel like a pro at it. A detailed video on the windshield seals would be nice

[larryrios]

Can't thank you enough for all the DIY's on the platform. Thank you. I wouldn't own an N54 if it wasn't for the ease of access to parts with FCP Euro.