Written by:jacks
If you’ve spent any time researching BMW diesels, you’ve likely come across the N57 engine – a powerhouse 3.0-litre inline-six turbo-diesel that earned a reputation for combining muscular torque with long-distance efficiency. Whether you’re browsing for a used model or just curious about BMW’s diesel legacy, this guide is your go-to resource for all things N57.
As independent BMW specialists, we at Quarry Motors know the N57 inside and out – so let’s dive in.
What Is the BMW N57 Engine?
The BMW N57 engine is a 2,993cc inline-six diesel engine produced by BMW from 2008 to 2018, available in multiple single, twin, and even triple-turbocharged variants. It replaced the M57 engine and was eventually succeeded by the B57.
Despite all sharing the same displacement and core architecture, there are three main versions:
- N57D30A – Standard output (single-turbo), 208–255 bhp
- N57D30B (N57Z) – High output (twin-turbo), 308 bhp
- N57D30C (N57X) – M Performance (triple-turbo), 375 bhp
N57 Engine Technical Overview
| Variant | Years | Turbo Setup | Power Output (BHP) | Used In |
| D30A | 2008–2018 | Single Turbo | 208–255 BHP | 30d models (e.g. 530d, X3 30d, 730d) |
| D30B (Z) | 2012–2019 | Twin Turbo | 308 BHP | 35d/40d/640d/740d models |
| D30C (X) | 2012–2018 | Triple Turbo | 375 BHP | M50d, M550d, 750d |
BMW Models That Use the N57 Engine
Here’s a full breakdown by model and chassis, so you know exactly where each N57 variant shows up.
3 Series (E90/E91/E92/E93, F30/F31/F32/F33)
Engines Used:
- N57D30A – 330d
- N57D30B – 335d (twin-turbo, 308bhp)
Years: 2008–2019
Notes: F30/F31 335d models were xDrive only in the UK.
4 Series (F32/F33)
Engines Used:
- N57D30A – 430d
- N57D30B – 435d
Years: 2013–2019
Notes: The 435d is an excellent balance of performance and economy in a stylish coupe body.
5 Series (F10/F11, F07 GT)
Engines Used:
- N57D30A – 530d
- N57D30B – 535d
- N57D30C – M550d (triple-turbo)
Years: 2010–2018
Notes: One of the most popular applications of the N57, especially in touring/commuter setups.
6 Series (F12/F13)
Engines Used:
- N57D30B – 640d (twin-turbo, 308bhp)
Years: 2011–2018
Notes: Perfect for long-distance touring with diesel efficiency.
7 Series (F01/F02)
Engines Used:
- N57D30A – 730d
- N57D30B – 740d
- N57D30C – 750d / 750Ld
Years: 2008–2015
Notes: The 750d/Ld is the ultimate diesel 7 Series, with triple turbos and serious torque.
X3 (F25)
Engines Used:
- N57D30A – xDrive30d
- N57D30B – xDrive35d
Years: 2010–2017
Notes: Strong performance in a practical SUV form. xDrive35d delivers 308bhp and loads of torque.
X4 (F26)
Engines Used:
- N57D30A – xDrive30d
- N57D30B – xDrive35d
Years: 2014–2018
Notes: Sportier styling than the X3 but with the same reliable diesel power.
X5 (E70, F15)
Engines Used:
- N57D30A – xDrive30d
- N57D30B – xDrive40d
- N57D30C – X5 M50d
Years: 2008–2018
Notes: The M50d is a high-performance diesel SUV with serious torque and triple-turbo power.
X6 (E71, F16)
Engines Used:
- N57D30A – xDrive30d
- N57D30B – xDrive40d
- N57D30C – X6 M50d
Years: 2008–2019
Notes: Shares powertrain options with the X5 but with sleeker, sportier looks.
Did You Know?
- All BMW N57 engine variants are 6-cylinder diesels, despite some listings mistakenly describing them as inline-4.
- The N57D30C (triple-turbo) delivers 375 BHP and up to 740Nm of torque—on par with petrol V8s.
- The N57Z (D30B) twin-turbo variant was widely used from 2012 to 2019 in performance diesels such as the 535d, 640d, and 740d.
N57 Engine Issues to Watch Out For
The N57 engine is generally robust, but like any high-performance diesel, it has a few known issues:
- EGR Cooler Leaks – Especially common in early models. Some were recalled.
- DPF Blockages – Common in cars that do frequent short journeys.
- Timing Chain Wear – Less common than on the N47, but still a known long-term issue.
- Turbo Actuator Problems – More frequent in twin- and triple-turbo versions.
Pro Tip: Stick to quality oil, change it regularly, and keep up with BMW service intervals to avoid bigger issues later.
N57 Compatibility Chart
| Engine Code | Turbo Setup | Power Output | BMW Series | Common Models |
| N57D30A | Single | 208–255 BHP | 3, 4, 5, 7, X3, X4, X5, X6 | 330d, 530d, 730d, X5 30d |
| N57D30B (Z) | Twin | 308 BHP | 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, X3, X4, X5, X6 | 335d, 535d, 640d, 740d, X5 40d |
| N57D30C (X) | Triple | 375 BHP | 5, 7, X5, X6 | M550d, 750d/Ld, X5 M50d, X6 M50d |
Need Help With Your N57-Powered BMW? Contact Quarry Motors
At Quarry Motors, we’re not just BMW specialists – we’re used BMW N57 engine experts. For those who need a new engine, we offer N57 engines at a fraction of dealership prices and also fitment from our Sheffield workshop.
Whether you’re driving a 330d, 640d, or an M50d, we offer in-depth diagnostics from our Sheffield BMW Service & Repair Centre – including performance tuning, DPF and EGR servicing, and full engine repairs or replacement using genuine or OEM-quality parts.
We’ve seen every version of the N57 engine come through our workshop, and we know how to keep them running at their best.
Get in touch with Quarry Motors today for specialist care, expert advice, and reliable service for your diesel BMW engines.
