Written by:jacks
BMW has a storied reputation for producing high-performance, durable, and reliable engines that have become favourites among enthusiasts worldwide.
Whether you’re restoring a classic model or looking for a dependable used BMW engine, BMW’s lineup offers a range of options that excel in performance, longevity, and engineering. Here’s a combined list of the 20 most reliable BMW engines of all time, with recommendations based on historical popularity, reliability, and ease of maintenance.
How Good are BMW Engines?
BMW engines are renowned for their engineering excellence, delivering a blend of power, performance, and reliability. The use of advanced technology and materials ensures smooth operation and impressive efficiency. Whether naturally aspirated or turbocharged, BMW engines are celebrated for their responsive performance, making them a favourite among enthusiasts.
How Long Do BMW Engines Last?
With proper maintenance, BMW engines can last well over 200,000 miles. Many owners report reliable performance for even longer, especially with models equipped with durable inline-six or well-engineered diesel engines. Regular servicing and attention to common issues significantly contribute to their longevity, making them a dependable choice for long-term use.
Best BMW Engines: Which BMW Engines Are Most Reliable?
1. M10 Inline-4 (1962-1988)
- Models: BMW 1500, 2002, E21, E30
- Why it’s great: A classic powerhouse of BMW’s early lineup, the M10 is known for its simplicity, ruggedness, and ease of maintenance. This inline-4 engine is a favourite for vintage BMW restorations, especially in models like the 2002.
2. M30 Inline-6 (1968-1994)
- Models: BMW E3, E9, E12, E28, E24, E32, E34
- Why it’s great: Often called the “Big Six,” the M30 engine is celebrated for its longevity and robustness, making it a long-standing favourite in the BMW lineup. Enthusiasts appreciate its ability to run smoothly for hundreds of thousands of miles.
3. S54 Inline-6 (2000-2008)
- Models: BMW E46 M3, Z3 M, Z4 M
- Why it’s great: As one of BMW’s most beloved M engines, the S54 offers high RPM performance, smooth power delivery, and durability, especially with regular maintenance. It’s renowned among enthusiasts for its performance in the E46 M3.
4. M50 Inline-6 (1990-1996)
- Models: BMW E34, E36
- Why it’s great: The M50 introduced BMW’s first 24-valve inline-six, bringing both efficiency and power. Known for high mileage, this engine has proven to be a favourite for those seeking reliability in an older BMW.
5. N52 Inline-6 (2004-2015)
- Models: BMW E90, E60, E83, E85, E70
- Why it’s great: This naturally aspirated engine is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and smoothness. It was one of BMW’s last naturally aspirated inline-sixes, often reaching over 200,000 miles with proper care.
6. M57 Diesel Inline-6 (1998-2013)
- Models: BMW E38, E39, E46, E53, E90, E60, X5 3.0d
- Why it’s great: Known for its torque and fuel efficiency, the M57 diesel is a durable workhorse capable of handling high mileage. It’s popular in Europe and highly sought after by diesel enthusiasts.
7. S62 V8 (1998-2003)
- Models: BMW E39 M5, Z8
- Why it’s great: This 4.9L V8 offers exceptional power and reliability, especially when regularly maintained. It delivers smooth performance and is highly prized among collectors of the iconic E39 M5 and BMW Z8 roadster.
8. B58 Inline-6 (2015-present)
- Models: BMW G30 540i, G29 Z4, Toyota Supra
- Why it’s great: The B58, one of BMW’s newer engines, quickly gained a reputation for dependability. Its turbocharged power and efficiency make it a top choice among modern BMW owners and tuners alike.
9. M40 Inline-4 (1987-1995)
- Models: BMW E30, E36
- Why it’s great: While not a high-performance engine, the M40 is appreciated for its simplicity and durability. It powers many base BMW models and can achieve high mileage with minimal issues.
10. S65 V8 (2007-2013)
- Models: BMW E90/E92/E93 M3
- Why it’s great: Known for its high-revving, naturally aspirated design, the S65 is a fan-favourite for its exhilarating performance. Though it requires regular maintenance, it offers a unique driving character.
11. N54 Inline-6 Twin-Turbo (2006-2016)
- Models: BMW 135i, 335i, 535i, Z4 35i
- Why it’s great: The BMW N54 engine, BMW’s first mass-produced twin-turbo, delivers power, smooth torque, and tunability. With regular maintenance, it’s a reliable choice and remains popular among performance enthusiasts.
12. N55 Inline-6 Single-Turbo (2009-2019)
- Models: BMW 135i, 235i, 335i, 435i, 535i, X3, X4, X5, X6
- Why it’s great: The N55 engine improved upon the N54’s twin-turbo design with a single turbo, enhancing efficiency while retaining smooth power delivery. Known for reliability, it’s widely available in BMW’s used lineup.
13. S55 Inline-6 Twin-Turbo (2014-2020)
- Models: BMW M2 Competition, M3, M4
- Why it’s great: The high-performance S55 engine powers the M models and offers durability even under high-stress conditions. Its power, resilience, and tunability make it a top pick for those wanting ultimate BMW performance.
14. S85 V10 (2005-2010)
- Models: BMW M5, M6
- Why it’s great: The naturally aspirated S85 V10 delivers an unmatched driving experience with its high-revving capabilities. Though maintenance is crucial, it remains one of BMW’s most iconic engines for those seeking raw power.
15. N47 Diesel Inline-4 (2007-2014)
- Models: BMW 1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, X1, X3
- Why it’s great: Known for its fuel efficiency and durability, the N47 engine is widely used in diesel models. Later variants of the N47 offer improved reliability, making it a favourite for high-mileage drivers.
16. N57 Diesel Inline-6 (2008-2020)
- Models: BMW 3 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, X3, X5, X6
- Why it’s great: A durable diesel engine that’s popular for its torque and fuel efficiency, the N57 engine is ideal for those looking for a reliable high-mileage BMW.
17. B47 Diesel Inline-4 (2014-present)
- Models: BMW 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, X1, X3
- Why it’s great: An updated, more reliable successor to the N47, the B47 engine delivers fuel-efficient power in modern BMW models. It’s a dependable choice for diesel enthusiasts.
18. N43 Inline-4 (2006-2013)
- Models: BMW 1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series
- Why it’s great: This naturally aspirated inline-4 N43 engine is celebrated for its simplicity and efficiency, making it a reliable option for those looking for a fuel-efficient BMW model from the mid-2000s.
19. B58 Inline-6 (2015-present)
- Models: BMW 3 Series, 5 Series, Z4, Toyota Supra
- Why it’s great: Known for its performance and durability, the B58 engine is one of BMW’s top recent engines and continues to earn accolades for its balance of power and efficiency.
20. B38 Inline-3 Turbo (2013-present)
- Models: BMW i8, MINI Cooper, 1 Series
- Why it’s great: Compact and efficient, the B38 engine is an excellent choice for smaller BMW and MINI models. It’s known for durability in the hybrid BMW i8 as well as other compact models.
Need A BMW Engine?
In conclusion, BMW has established a legendary reputation for producing some of the most reliable and high-performing engines in the automotive world. From the classic M10 to the innovative B58, these engines offer a perfect blend of durability, efficiency, and exhilarating driving experiences.
Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast restoring a vintage model or seeking a dependable used engine for your daily driver, our guide highlights the best options to consider.
Explore our reliable used BMW engines and elevate your driving experience—because with the right engine, every journey becomes a joyride!
