M54 vs N52 - which inline 6 is more reliable?

3 months ago· 15 posts

Both are legendary BMW inline 6 engines but which one is more reliable long term? M54 (E46/E39/E60): - Simpler design - No Valvetronic - Known for oil leaks but mechanically bulletproof - 250k+ km easily N52 (E90/E60): - Magnesium block (lighter) - Valvetronic (more efficient) - VANOS issues more common - Oil filter housing gasket leak I think the M54 is more reliable but the N52 is the better engine overall. Thoughts?

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Replies (2)

SuspensionPro

3 months ago#1

Electric water pump failure is so common on N20. BMW should have done a recall. At least the replacement is straightforward.

11 posts · 0 rep

BavarianGarage

26 days ago#2

Both are excellent engines but the M54 is simpler and cheaper to maintain. No Valvetronic, no VANOS issues (the M54 VANOS is much simpler than the N52 double-VANOS). The N52 has the electric water pump that fails around 80-100k km (400 EUR to replace), and the valve cover gasket is more prone to leaking. For pure reliability, M54. For refinement and fuel economy, N52.

25 posts · 0 rep

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