The E46 3 Series was built from 1997 to 2006 in saloon, Touring, coupé, convertible and Compact form. It used the M43, N40, N42, N45 and N46 fours, the M52TU and M54 sixes, the M47 and M57 diesels and the S54 in the M3.
It is one of the most common BMWs in Europe, and engine replacements are frequent. This guide explains which engine your E46 uses, what to check on each, and the swaps that work.
In total, 20 model and engine combinations are listed for the BMW E46 3 Series in our data, using 8 engine families: M43, M52, M47, M57, M54, S54 and N42 and N46. Production covered 1997–2006. We currently hold 163 engines that suit these cars.
Every BMW E46 3 Series engine at a glance
| Model | Engine code | Fuel | Power | Torque | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E46 316i | M43B16 | Petrol | 102 hp | 150 Nm | 1993–2002 |
| E46 323i | M52B25 | Petrol | 170 hp | 245 Nm | 1995–2000 |
| E46 316i | M43B19 | Petrol | 118 hp | 180 Nm | 1998–2002 |
| E46 318i | M43B19 | Petrol | 118 hp | 180 Nm | 1998–2002 |
| E46 320d | M47D20 | Diesel | 136 hp | 280 Nm | 1998–2007 |
| E46 325d | M57D25 | Diesel | 163 hp | 350 Nm | 1998–2007 |
| E46 328i | M52TUB28 | Petrol | 193 hp | 280 Nm | 1998–2000 |
| E46 330d | M57D30 | Diesel | 184 hp | 390 Nm | 1998–2005 |
| E46 330d | M57D30OL | Diesel | 184 hp | 390 Nm | 1998–2003 |
| E46 320i | M54B22 | Petrol | 170 hp | 210 Nm | 2000–2006 |
| E46 325i | M54B25 | Petrol | 192 hp | 245 Nm | 2000–2006 |
| E46 330i | M54B30 | Petrol | 231 hp | 300 Nm | 2000–2006 |
| E46 M3 | S54B32 | Petrol | 343 hp | 365 Nm | 2000–2006 |
| E46 316i | N42B18 | Petrol | 115 hp | 175 Nm | 2001–2004 |
| E46 316i | N40B16 | Petrol | 116 hp | 150 Nm | 2001–2004 |
| E46 316ti | N40B16 | Petrol | 116 hp | 150 Nm | 2001–2004 |
| E46 318i | N42B20 | Petrol | 143 hp | 200 Nm | 2001–2004 |
| E46 320d | M47TUD20 | Diesel | 150 hp | 330 Nm | 2001–2007 |
| E46 Compact | N42B18 | Petrol | 115 hp | 175 Nm | 2001–2004 |
| E46 330d | M57D30TU | Diesel | 218 hp | 500 Nm | 2002–2007 |
BMW E46 3 Series: petrol engines
M43 in the BMW E46 3 Series
The E46 316i uses the M43B16, a 1.6 L inline-4 rated at 102 hp and 150 Nm, built 1993–2002.
The E46 316i uses the M43B19, a 1.9 L inline-4 rated at 118 hp and 180 Nm, built 1998–2002.
The E46 318i uses the M43B19, a 1.9 L inline-4 rated at 118 hp and 180 Nm, built 1998–2002.
Introduced in 1993 at 1.6 and 1.8 litres, the M43 used a single camshaft driven by a chain and hydraulic lifters.
On the M43, our workshop watches for timing chain guide rail, valve cover gasket leaks and ticking hydraulic lifters. Replace the guide rail, tensioner and valve cover gasket before fitting a used M43. It is a small job with the engine out.
M52 in the BMW E46 3 Series
E46 323i: M52B25, 2.5 L, 170 hp and 245 Nm (1995–2000).
E46 328i: M52TUB28, 2.8 L, 193 hp and 280 Nm (1998–2000).
The M52 arrived in 1994 with an aluminium block, Nikasil cylinder coating in most markets and single VANOS.
On the M52, our workshop watches for nikasil bore wear, cooling system and vanos seals and solenoids. Ask whether the block is Nikasil or Alusil. Engines built from late 1998 use Alusil.
We have 2 M52 engines that suit the BMW E46 3 Series, from 1.301,00 €.
M54 in the BMW E46 3 Series
E46 320i: M54B22, 2.2 L, 170 hp and 210 Nm (2000–2006). See every M54B22 in stock.
The E46 325i uses the M54B25, a 2.5 L inline-6 rated at 192 hp and 245 Nm, built 2000–2006. See every M54B25 in stock.
E46 330i: M54B30, 3.0 L, 231 hp and 300 Nm (2000–2006). See every M54B30 in stock.
BMW introduced the M54 in 2000 at 2.2, 2.5 and 3.0 litres, with double VANOS, an electronic throttle and the DISA variable intake.
On the M54, our workshop watches for crankcase ventilation (ccv), disa valve flap and cooling system. Change the CCV system and DISA valve before fitting a used M54. Both are cheap compared with an engine.
We have 48 M54 engines that suit the BMW E46 3 Series, from 887,00 €.
N42 and N46 in the BMW E46 3 Series
The E46 316i uses the N42B18, a 1.8 L inline-4 rated at 115 hp and 175 Nm, built 2001–2004.
The E46 318i uses the N42B20, a 2.0 L inline-4 rated at 143 hp and 200 Nm, built 2001–2004.
E46 Compact: N42B18, 1.8 L, 115 hp and 175 Nm (2001–2004).
BMW introduced the N42 in 2001 with Valvetronic, double VANOS and balance shafts.
On the N42 and N46, our workshop watches for oil consumption, timing chain stretch and valvetronic motor and eccentric shaft sensor. Replace the timing chain, tensioner and valve stem seals when fitting a high-mileage used N46.
Read our full N42 and N46 guide
N42 and N46 in the BMW E46 3 Series
E46 316i: N40B16, 1.6 L, 116 hp and 150 Nm (2001–2004).
For the E46 316ti, BMW fitted the N40B16 — 1.6 L, naturally aspirated, 116 hp.
BMW introduced the N42 in 2001 with Valvetronic, double VANOS and balance shafts.
On the N42 and N46, our workshop watches for oil consumption, timing chain stretch and valvetronic motor and eccentric shaft sensor. Replace the timing chain, tensioner and valve stem seals when fitting a high-mileage used N46.
Read our full N42 and N46 guide
BMW E46 3 Series: diesel engines
M47 in the BMW E46 3 Series
E46 320d: M47D20, 2.0 L, 136 hp and 280 Nm (1998–2007).
For the E46 320d, BMW fitted the M47TUD20 — 2.0 L, turbocharged, 150 hp.
BMW launched the M47 in 1998 with a distributor injection pump.
On the M47, our workshop watches for swirl flaps, egr valve and cooler and injectors. Fit swirl flap blanks and clean the intake when installing a used M47.
We have 50 M47 engines that suit the BMW E46 3 Series, from 1.100,00 €.
M57 in the BMW E46 3 Series
The E46 325d uses the M57D25, a 2.5 L inline-6 rated at 163 hp and 350 Nm, built 1998–2007. See every M57D25 in stock.
For the E46 330d, BMW fitted the M57D30 — 3.0 L, turbocharged, 184 hp. See every M57D30 in stock.
For the E46 330d, BMW fitted the M57D30OL — 3.0 L, turbocharged, 184 hp.
The E46 330d uses the M57D30TU, a 3.0 L inline-6 rated at 218 hp and 500 Nm, built 2002–2007. See every M57D30TU in stock.
BMW launched the M57 in 1998 with common-rail injection.
On the M57, our workshop watches for swirl flaps, egr valve and cooler and injectors. Fit swirl flap blanks when installing a used M57. Conversions need the right sump and wiring.
We have 2 M57 engines that suit the BMW E46 3 Series, from 376,00 €.
BMW E46 3 Series: m and performance engines
S54 in the BMW E46 3 Series
The E46 M3 uses the S54B32, a 3.2 L inline-6 rated at 343 hp and 365 Nm, built 2000–2006. See every S54B32 in stock.
BMW Motorsport launched the S54 in 2000 with an iron block, individual throttle bodies and high-pressure double VANOS.
On the S54, our workshop watches for rod bearings, vanos unit and valve clearances. Fit new rod bearings and upgraded VANOS parts when installing a used S54. It is easier with the engine out.
We have 61 S54 engines that suit the BMW E46 3 Series, from 5.345,00 €.
Will it fit? BMW E46 3 Series engine questions
Will the M43B16 fit my BMW E46 316i?
Yes, the BMW E46 316i left the factory with the M43B16, so an M43B16 from another car is the direct replacement. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the M43B16 was produced 1993–2002, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 316i?
We do not have an M43B16 on the shelf for the E46 316i at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Will the M43B19 fit my BMW E46 316i?
For the BMW E46 316i, the M43B19 is the factory engine and the one to order. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the M43B19 was produced 1998–2002, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 316i?
We do not have an M43B19 on the shelf for the E46 316i at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Will the M43B19 fit my BMW E46 318i?
Yes, the BMW E46 318i left the factory with the M43B19, so an M43B19 from another car is the direct replacement. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the M43B19 was produced 1998–2002, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 318i?
We do not have an M43B19 on the shelf for the E46 318i at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Will the M47D20 fit my BMW E46 320d?
Yes, the BMW E46 320d left the factory with the M47D20, so an M47D20 from another car is the direct replacement. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the M47D20 was produced 1998–2007, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 320d?
We have 50 M47D20 engines from E46 donor cars, priced from 1.100,00 € to 1.765,00 €. Delivery to your door is included, and the engine carries a 12-month warranty when fitted by a qualified workshop. Add fitting labour and the parts you replace at the same time — seals, cooling parts and mounts — to estimate the total.
Will the M57D25 fit my BMW E46 325d?
The M57D25 is the original engine for the BMW E46 325d, which makes it the straightforward choice. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the M57D25 was produced 1998–2007, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 325d?
We do not have an M57D25 on the shelf for the E46 325d at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Will the M52TUB28 fit my BMW E46 328i?
For the BMW E46 328i, the M52TUB28 is the factory engine and the one to order. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the M52TUB28 was produced 1998–2000, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 328i?
We have 1 M52TUB28 engine from E46 donor cars, priced from 1.301,00 €. Delivery to your door is included, and the engine carries a 12-month warranty when fitted by a qualified workshop. Add fitting labour and the parts you replace at the same time — seals, cooling parts and mounts — to estimate the total.
Will the M57D30 fit my BMW E46 330d?
The M57D30 is the original engine for the BMW E46 330d, which makes it the straightforward choice. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the M57D30 was produced 1998–2005, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 330d?
We have 2 M57D30 engines from E46 donor cars, priced from 376,00 € to 1.320,00 €. Delivery to your door is included, and the engine carries a 12-month warranty when fitted by a qualified workshop. Add fitting labour and the parts you replace at the same time — seals, cooling parts and mounts — to estimate the total.
Will the M57D30OL fit my BMW E46 330d?
The M57D30OL is the original engine for the BMW E46 330d, which makes it the straightforward choice. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the M57D30OL was produced 1998–2003, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 330d?
We have 1 M57D30OL engine from E46 donor cars, priced from 1.320,00 €. Delivery to your door is included, and the engine carries a 12-month warranty when fitted by a qualified workshop. Add fitting labour and the parts you replace at the same time — seals, cooling parts and mounts — to estimate the total.
Will the M54B22 fit my BMW E46 320i?
For the BMW E46 320i, the M54B22 is the factory engine and the one to order. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the M54B22 was produced 2000–2006, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 320i?
We have 1 M54B22 engine from E46 donor cars, priced from 3.103,00 €. Delivery to your door is included, and the engine carries a 12-month warranty when fitted by a qualified workshop. Add fitting labour and the parts you replace at the same time — seals, cooling parts and mounts — to estimate the total.
Will the N42B18 fit my BMW E46 316i?
The N42B18 is the original engine for the BMW E46 316i, which makes it the straightforward choice. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the N42B18 was produced 2001–2004, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 316i?
We do not have an N42B18 on the shelf for the E46 316i at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Will the N40B16 fit my BMW E46 316i?
For the BMW E46 316i, the N40B16 is the factory engine and the one to order. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the N40B16 was produced 2001–2004, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 316i?
We do not have an N40B16 on the shelf for the E46 316i at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Will the N40B16 fit my BMW E46 316ti?
For the BMW E46 316ti, the N40B16 is the factory engine and the one to order. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the N40B16 was produced 2001–2004, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 316ti?
We do not have an N40B16 on the shelf for the E46 316ti at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Will the N42B20 fit my BMW E46 318i?
For the BMW E46 318i, the N42B20 is the factory engine and the one to order. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the N42B20 was produced 2001–2004, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 318i?
We do not have an N42B20 on the shelf for the E46 318i at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Will the M47TUD20 fit my BMW E46 320d?
For the BMW E46 320d, the M47TUD20 is the factory engine and the one to order. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the M47TUD20 was produced 2001–2007, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 320d?
We do not have an M47TUD20 on the shelf for the E46 320d at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Will the N42B18 fit my BMW E46 Compact?
The N42B18 is the original engine for the BMW E46 Compact, which makes it the straightforward choice. The fourth 3 Series was built 1997–2006, and the N42B18 was produced 2001–2004, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E46 Compact?
We do not have an N42B18 on the shelf for the E46 Compact at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Engine swap questions for the BMW E46 3 Series
Owners often ask whether a more powerful engine from another BMW E46 3 Series model can be fitted. These answers show what each upgrade involves.
Can I fit the M57D30TU from the E46 330d into an E46 316i?
It is a full conversion: the M57D30TU runs on diesel and the N40B16 on petrol, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 102 hp and 350 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M54B25 from the E46 325i into an E46 316i?
It is a conversion rather than a replacement. The M54B25 is an inline-6 and the N40B16 an inline-4, so mounts, sump, cooling, exhaust, wiring and ECU all change. The gain is 76 hp and 95 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M57D30TU from the E46 330d into an E46 323i?
It is a full conversion: the M57D30TU runs on diesel and the M52B25 on petrol, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 48 hp and 255 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the S54B32 from the E46 M3 into an E46 323i?
It is possible, and it is one of the more common upgrades. Both engines are petrol inline-6 units, so the engine bay and mounting points are similar, but the S54B32 needs its own wiring harness and ECU, the matching gearbox or clutch, and often a different sump, cooling and exhaust. The gain is 173 hp and 120 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M57D25 from the E46 325d into an E46 318i?
It is a full conversion: the M57D25 runs on diesel and the N42B20 on petrol, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 20 hp and 150 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the S54B32 from the E46 M3 into an E46 318i?
It is a conversion rather than a replacement. The S54B32 is an inline-6 and the N42B20 an inline-4, so mounts, sump, cooling, exhaust, wiring and ECU all change. The gain is 200 hp and 165 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M57D25 from the E46 325d into an E46 320d?
It is a conversion rather than a replacement. The M57D25 is an inline-6 and the M47TUD20 an inline-4, so mounts, sump, cooling, exhaust, wiring and ECU all change. The gain is 13 hp and 20 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M54B22 from the E46 320i into an E46 320d?
It is a full conversion: the M54B22 runs on petrol and the M47TUD20 on diesel, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 20 hp and 0 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the S54B32 from the E46 M3 into an E46 325d?
It is a full conversion: the S54B32 runs on petrol and the M57D25 on diesel, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 180 hp and 15 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M54B30 from the E46 330i into an E46 325d?
It is a full conversion: the M54B30 runs on petrol and the M57D25 on diesel, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 68 hp and 0 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M54B30 from the E46 330i into an E46 328i?
It is possible, and it is one of the more common upgrades. Both engines are petrol inline-6 units, so the engine bay and mounting points are similar, but the M54B30 needs its own wiring harness and ECU, the matching gearbox or clutch, and often a different sump, cooling and exhaust. The gain is 38 hp and 20 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the S54B32 from the E46 M3 into an E46 328i?
It is possible, and it is one of the more common upgrades. Both engines are petrol inline-6 units, so the engine bay and mounting points are similar, but the S54B32 needs its own wiring harness and ECU, the matching gearbox or clutch, and often a different sump, cooling and exhaust. The gain is 150 hp and 85 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M54B30 from the E46 330i into an E46 330d?
It is a full conversion: the M54B30 runs on petrol and the M57D30TU on diesel, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 13 hp and 0 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the S54B32 from the E46 M3 into an E46 330d?
It is a full conversion: the S54B32 runs on petrol and the M57D30TU on diesel, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 125 hp and 0 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M57D30TU from the E46 330d into an E46 320i?
It is a full conversion: the M57D30TU runs on diesel and the M54B22 on petrol, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 48 hp and 290 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the S54B32 from the E46 M3 into an E46 320i?
It is possible, and it is one of the more common upgrades. Both engines are petrol inline-6 units, so the engine bay and mounting points are similar, but the S54B32 needs its own wiring harness and ECU, the matching gearbox or clutch, and often a different sump, cooling and exhaust. The gain is 173 hp and 155 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M57D30TU from the E46 330d into an E46 325i?
It is a full conversion: the M57D30TU runs on diesel and the M54B25 on petrol, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 26 hp and 255 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the S54B32 from the E46 M3 into an E46 325i?
It is possible, and it is one of the more common upgrades. Both engines are petrol inline-6 units, so the engine bay and mounting points are similar, but the S54B32 needs its own wiring harness and ECU, the matching gearbox or clutch, and often a different sump, cooling and exhaust. The gain is 151 hp and 120 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the S54B32 from the E46 M3 into an E46 330i?
It is possible, and it is one of the more common upgrades. Both engines are petrol inline-6 units, so the engine bay and mounting points are similar, but the S54B32 needs its own wiring harness and ECU, the matching gearbox or clutch, and often a different sump, cooling and exhaust. The gain is 112 hp and 65 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M57D25 from the E46 325d into an E46 316ti?
It is a full conversion: the M57D25 runs on diesel and the N40B16 on petrol, so the fuel system, wiring, ECU, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 47 hp and 200 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M52TUB28 from the E46 328i into an E46 316ti?
It is a conversion rather than a replacement. The M52TUB28 is an inline-6 and the N40B16 an inline-4, so mounts, sump, cooling, exhaust, wiring and ECU all change. The gain is 77 hp and 130 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M54B22 from the E46 320i into an E46 Compact?
It is a conversion rather than a replacement. The M54B22 is an inline-6 and the N42B18 an inline-4, so mounts, sump, cooling, exhaust, wiring and ECU all change. The gain is 55 hp and 35 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Can I fit the M52B25 from the E46 323i into an E46 Compact?
It is a conversion rather than a replacement. The M52B25 is an inline-6 and the N42B18 an inline-4, so mounts, sump, cooling, exhaust, wiring and ECU all change. The gain is 55 hp and 70 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe a swap must be inspected and registered; check with your testing station first.
Fitment and swap notes for the BMW E46 3 Series
- The M54B30 from a 330i is a common upgrade for 320i and 325i owners; it needs the matching ECU and in some cases the 330i gearbox.
- Four-cylinder petrol E46s changed engine families in 2001 (M43 to N42) and 2004 (N42 to N46), so check the build date.
- The 330d and 320d use the M57 and M47 diesels; swirl flaps should be removed or blanked on any used unit.
- S54 swaps into non-M E46s are popular but need the M3 wiring, cooling and driveline.
Engines from the same family usually share mounts and gearbox bolt patterns, but wiring, ECU, sump and cooling differ between versions. Moving to a different family is a conversion, not a replacement.
M43: The M43 is an economy engine. Tuning gains are small; buyers wanting performance usually choose an M44 or a six-cylinder swap.
M52: The M52B28 is the base for many E36 builds: an S52 or M50 intake manifold, a remap and a better exhaust wake it up. Strokers to 3.0 litres use M54B30 parts.
M47: Remaps add around 30 hp.
M57: Remaps add around 50 hp. The M57 is one of the best diesel conversion engines.
M54: An M54B30 is a common upgrade for E46 325i and Z4 2.5 owners. Remaps add a little; most power gains come from an S54 or a forced-induction kit.
S54: CSL airboxes, intake camshafts, headers and a remap add power. Most owners value reliability over peak power and focus on bearings and VANOS.
N42 and N46: Tuning potential is limited. Most owners looking for more power choose a six-cylinder swap.
N42 and N46: Tuning potential is limited. Most owners looking for more power choose a six-cylinder swap.
Known problems by engine in the BMW E46 3 Series
M43
- Timing chain guide rail. Remove the valve cover and inspect the top of the guide; replace it when fitting any used M43.
- Valve cover gasket leaks. Look for burnt oil on the exhaust side.
- Ticking hydraulic lifters. Listen after the engine has warmed; noise that stays is a lifter problem.
- Engine mounts and vibration. Check mounts for split rubber when the engine is in the car.
M52
- Nikasil bore wear. A compression or leak-down test is the only reliable check; Alusil and iron-block units are not affected.
- Cooling system. Look at the date of the last cooling refresh and check for a metal impeller.
- VANOS seals and solenoids. Listen for a diesel-like rattle at idle and check for torque loss low down.
- DISA valve (M52TU). Remove the DISA valve and check the flap pin for play.
- Crankcase ventilation. Look for oil in the intake and smoke on start.
M47
- Swirl flaps. Check whether the flaps have been removed or replaced with blanks.
- EGR valve and cooler. Check for EGR fault codes and coolant loss.
- Injectors. Read injector correction values.
- Turbocharger. Check shaft play.
- Glow plugs. Check the glow plug system.
M57
- Swirl flaps. Check whether the flaps have been removed or replaced with blanks.
- EGR valve and cooler. Check for EGR fault codes and coolant loss.
- Injectors. Read injector correction values.
- Turbocharger. Check shaft play and actuator movement.
- Thermostat and viscous fan. Check the coolant temperature.
M54
- Crankcase ventilation (CCV). Pull the dipstick at idle: strong suction or a whistle points to the CCV.
- DISA valve flap. Remove the valve and check for play in the flap.
- Cooling system. Look for white coolant stains and check the impeller.
- Oil filter housing and valve cover gaskets. Look at the exhaust side and down the front of the block.
- Oil consumption from piston rings. Ask for consumption figures; a compression test is useful.
S54
- Rod bearings. Ask when the rod bearings were last replaced; an oil analysis helps.
- VANOS unit. Check for VANOS codes and ask about upgraded bolts and pump disc.
- Valve clearances. Ask for the last adjustment.
- Throttle actuator. Check for throttle fault codes.
- Oil consumption. Ask for the consumption log.
N42 and N46
- Oil consumption. Ask for consumption figures and check the spark plugs for oil fouling.
- Timing chain stretch. Listen for a rattle on a cold start and check the camshaft timing values.
- Valvetronic motor and eccentric shaft sensor. Check for Valvetronic fault codes.
- Vacuum pump and oil leaks. Look at the back of the head.
- Crankcase ventilation. Check for a whistle at idle.
N42 and N46
- Oil consumption. Ask for consumption figures and check the spark plugs for oil fouling.
- Timing chain stretch. Listen for a rattle on a cold start and check the camshaft timing values.
- Valvetronic motor and eccentric shaft sensor. Check for Valvetronic fault codes.
- Vacuum pump and oil leaks. Look at the back of the head.
- Crankcase ventilation. Check for a whistle at idle.
How to identify the right engine for your BMW E46 3 Series
Start with the VIN. The last seven characters identify your car in BMW's systems, and from them we can confirm the engine code, the production date, the gearbox and whether the car has xDrive. That is the only reliable way to order.
Next, check the stamp on the block. On most BMW four- and six-cylinder engines it sits on the left side of the block below the intake; on V engines it is usually at the back near the gearbox. The stamp shows the engine code and serial number.
Finally, compare the ancillaries. Two engines with the same code can carry different turbos, injectors, manifolds or sensors depending on the model and market. Our listings show what is fitted to each unit.
BMW E46 3 Series engine prices
Across 163 BMW E46 3 Series engine units in our stock today, prices start at 376,00 € and reach 13.521,00 €. The median — the price in the middle of the range — is 1.928,00 €.
Prices depend on the exact version, the donor's mileage, how complete the engine is and the demand for that code. Higher-output versions, low mileage and dressed engines with turbo, injectors and ancillaries cost more; long blocks and higher mileage cost less.
BMW E46 3 Series engine prices by model year
| Model years | Units | From | Median | To |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000–2004 | 96 | 376,00 € | 1.977,00 € | 9.621,00 € |
| 2005–2009 | 59 | 1.140,00 € | 1.743,00 € | 9.612,00 € |
Engines from 2000–2004 have a median of 1.977,00 €, while units from 2005–2009 sit at 1.743,00 €. Newer engines usually cost more because they come from younger donor cars with lower mileage and later updates.
BMW E46 3 Series engine prices by mileage
| Donor mileage | Units | From | Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| under 50,000 km | 21 | 1.223,00 € | 2.022,00 € |
| 50,000 to 100,000 km | 41 | 1.100,00 € | 1.863,00 € |
| 100,000 to 150,000 km | 34 | 1.333,00 € | 2.191,00 € |
| over 150,000 km | 55 | 1.125,00 € | 1.673,00 € |
Mileage matters less than history on a well-maintained BMW engine, but it is a useful guide. A low-mileage unit from a younger car gives you more life for a modest premium.
| Engine family | Units in stock | From | Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| M52 | 2 | 1.301,00 € | 1.565,00 € |
| M47 | 50 | 1.100,00 € | 1.404,00 € |
| M57 | 2 | 376,00 € | 1.320,00 € |
| M54 | 48 | 887,00 € | 1.899,00 € |
| S54 | 61 | 5.345,00 € | 7.619,00 € |
BMW E46 3 Series engines in stock now
These BMW E46 3 Series engine units are in our Hamburg yard right now. Each listing shows real photographs of the engine you receive, its mileage and what is fitted.
BMW E46 320d M47D20TU2 Engine 2002, 197,200 km1.240,00 €
BMW E46 M3 CSL S54B32 Engine 2004, 165,700 km9.160,00 €
BMW E46 M3 S54B32 Engine 2000, 72,000 km6.935,00 €
BMW E46 320d M47D20TU2 Engine 2006, 183,900 km1.457,00 €
BMW E46 330i M54B30 Engine 2004, 184,400 km1.363,00 €
BMW E46 M3 S54B32 Engine 2003, 66,100 km8.273,00 €
BMW E46 320d M47D20TU2 Engine 2003, 173,600 km1.384,00 €
BMW E46 M3 CSL S54B32 Engine 2001, 141,200 km6.526,00 €
BMW E46 330i M54B30 Engine 2005, 167,100 km1.673,00 €
BMW E46 M3 S54B32 Engine 2001, 42,700 km9.301,00 €
BMW E46 330i M54B30 Engine 2005, 166,700 km1.751,00 €
BMW E46 M3 S54B32 Engine 2007, 137,100 km7.457,00 €BMW E46 320d M47D20TU2 Engine 2002, 197,200 km — 1.240,00 €, reduced from 2.100,00 €. It comes from a 2002 donor car with 197,200 km, and 26 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.
BMW E46 M3 CSL S54B32 Engine 2004, 165,700 km — 9.160,00 €, reduced from 9.900,00 €. It comes from a 2004 donor car with 165,700 km, and 12 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.
BMW E46 M3 S54B32 Engine 2000, 72,000 km — 6.935,00 €, reduced from 7.550,00 €. It comes from a 2000 donor car with 72,000 km, and 6 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.
BMW E46 320d M47D20TU2 Engine 2006, 183,900 km — 1.457,00 €, reduced from 2.650,00 €. It comes from a 2006 donor car with 183,900 km, and 10 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.
BMW E46 330i M54B30 Engine 2004, 184,400 km — 1.363,00 €, reduced from 2.650,00 €. It comes from a 2004 donor car with 184,400 km, and 20 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.
BMW E46 M3 S54B32 Engine 2003, 66,100 km — 8.273,00 €, reduced from 9.650,00 €. It comes from a 2003 donor car with 66,100 km, and 21 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.
BMW E46 320d M47D20TU2 Engine 2003, 173,600 km — 1.384,00 €, reduced from 2.250,00 €. It comes from a 2003 donor car with 173,600 km, and 6 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.
BMW E46 M3 CSL S54B32 Engine 2001, 141,200 km — 6.526,00 €, reduced from 7.650,00 €. It comes from a 2001 donor car with 141,200 km, and 18 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.
BMW E46 330i M54B30 Engine 2005, 167,100 km — 1.673,00 €, reduced from 2.650,00 €. It comes from a 2005 donor car with 167,100 km, and 17 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.
BMW E46 M3 S54B32 Engine 2001, 42,700 km — 9.301,00 €, reduced from 10.450,00 €. It comes from a 2001 donor car with 42,700 km, and 18 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.
BMW E46 330i M54B30 Engine 2005, 166,700 km — 1.751,00 €, reduced from 2.600,00 €. It comes from a 2005 donor car with 166,700 km, and 26 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.
BMW E46 M3 S54B32 Engine 2007, 137,100 km — 7.457,00 €, reduced from 8.150,00 €. It comes from a 2007 donor car with 137,100 km, and 27 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.
Buying checklist for a BMW E46 3 Series engine
- Confirm the exact engine code. Read the code stamped on the block and compare it with the code for your car. Send us the last seven characters of the VIN and we confirm the match before anything is paid.
- Ask how the donor car was damaged. Most good used engines come from cars with body damage. A front-end impact can crack sensors, the timing cover or the sump; a rear or side impact usually leaves the engine untouched. The yard records the damage on each unit.
- Compression or leak-down figures. Even compression across all cylinders tells you more than mileage. Ask for the figures, not just a pass or fail, and compare the highest and lowest readings: a spread above 10 to 15 percent deserves a question.
- Look at the oil and coolant. Clean oil without metal particles and coolant without oil are good signs. Milky oil, oily coolant or a burnt smell mean the engine needs further checks before it is fitted.
- Photographs from every side. Good suppliers photograph the actual engine you will receive. Look for the block stamp, the sump, the timing cover and any broken brackets or connectors in the pictures.
- List of what is fitted. Engines are sold with different ancillaries: some have the turbo, injectors, manifolds, alternator and starter, others are long blocks. Agree the list in writing so you know which parts must come from your old engine.
- Sump, oil pickup and drive variants. Rear-drive, xDrive and front-drive cars can use different sumps, oil pickups and engine mounts even with the same engine code. Check that the sump matches your subframe and front axle.
- Gearbox and flywheel match. Manual and automatic engines differ at the flywheel or flexplate, and sometimes at the crankshaft spigot. Make sure the engine you buy matches your gearbox or that you transfer the right parts.
- Warranty terms in writing. Read what the warranty covers, how long it runs and what fitting conditions apply. Most warranties require a qualified workshop, new fluids and filters, and replacement of the cooling parts that caused the original failure.
- Why your old engine failed. Before fitting a replacement, find out why the original failed. An overheating radiator, a blocked intercooler or a failed turbo can destroy a second engine if they are not fixed.
- Turbocharger shaft play and oil. Rotate the compressor wheel by hand. A small amount of side play is normal; in-and-out play or wheel contact with the housing is not. Oil pooled in the intake or intercooler pipes points to worn seals.
- Injector correction values. On a diesel that can be run before removal, the injector correction values show whether one injector is delivering more or less fuel than the others. Large deviations mean an injector is on its way out.
- Swirl flaps. Check whether the swirl flaps are in place, blanked or removed. Broken swirl flaps are a known cause of engine failure on several BMW diesels, so many owners fit blanking plates when the intake is off.
- Timing chain noise. Listen for a rattle at the front of the engine for the first seconds after a cold start. On an engine that cannot be run, look at the chain guides through the oil filler or with the valve cover off.
- VANOS operation. Rough idle, a rattle from the front of the head and a loss of torque at low revs point to VANOS seals or solenoids. These are serviceable parts and are easier to renew with the engine out.
- Double VANOS units and solenoids. Ask for the adaptation values or fault history if the engine was running. Solenoids are inexpensive and are often replaced as a matter of course on a used engine.
- Valvetronic motor and eccentric shaft sensor. The Valvetronic motor and its sensor cause limp-mode faults when they fail. Inspect the connector and the seal around the motor for oil.
- Bore coating. Early engines with Nikasil bores can be damaged by high-sulphur fuel. A compression or leak-down test is the only reliable check; units with Alusil or iron bores are not affected.
- Bearing and valve clearance history. M engines are built to tighter tolerances. Ask for the last rod bearing replacement and valve clearance check, and consider an oil analysis if the engine can be run.
- Plastic cooling parts. Expansion tanks, thermostat housings and water pump impellers made of plastic crack with age. Plan to replace them when the engine is fitted.
Fitting an engine to your BMW E46 3 Series
- Compare the engines side by side. Put the replacement next to the old engine and compare sensors, brackets, connectors, the sump, the starter and the flywheel or flexplate. Note anything that must be transferred.
- Transfer the parts that differ. Move the parts that are specific to your car, such as the engine harness on some models, the sump on xDrive cars or the air conditioning compressor bracket. Use new seals and gaskets for everything you move.
- Replace the rear main seal and drive parts. With the engine out, the rear crankshaft seal is easy to reach. Fit a new one, inspect the flywheel and clutch on manual cars or the converter seal on automatics.
- Renew the cooling system. Most engine failures start with cooling. Fit a new water pump, thermostat and hoses, check the radiator and fan, and use the correct coolant.
- Fit new engine mounts. Old mounts transfer vibration and can let the engine move enough to damage hoses. They are cheap and easy to replace with the engine out.
- Inspect or replace the timing chain parts. Look at the guides and tensioner. On high-mileage engines, replacing them now costs far less than doing it later.
- Prepare the turbo. Fit new oil feed and return seals, clean the intercooler and pipes of any oil or debris from the old engine, and prime the turbo with oil before starting.
- Code the injectors and bleed the fuel. Enter the injector correction codes into the ECU, check the glow plugs and bleed the fuel system so the engine does not crank dry.
- Clean the intake. If the old engine failed internally, debris can be in the intake or intercooler. Clean them so nothing reaches the new engine.
- Fill with the right oil and prime it. Fill with new oil of the correct specification and a new filter. Crank with the fuel and ignition disabled until oil pressure builds.
- Coding and adaptations. On modern BMWs, the engine ECU must be matched to the car's immobiliser (CAS, FEM or BDC). Reset adaptations, register the battery and clear faults with diagnostic software.
- Reset VANOS adaptations. Clear the VANOS adaptations so the ECU learns the camshaft positions of the new engine.
- Teach the Valvetronic limit stops. Run the Valvetronic learning routine so the ECU knows the eccentric shaft limits.
- First start and leak check. Start the engine, let it idle and watch oil pressure, temperature and fault codes. Check for leaks and bleed the cooling system.
- First 1,000 km. Drive gently for the first few hundred kilometres, vary the engine speed and avoid full load. Change the oil and filter after about 1,000 km to remove any assembly debris.
Diagnosing engine trouble in a BMW E46 3 Series
If your current engine is showing one of these symptoms, this table helps you judge whether it can be repaired or whether a replacement engine is the better route.
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Knocking from the bottom of the engine | A deep knock that rises with engine speed usually means worn rod or main bearings. |
| Overheating or losing coolant | Coolant loss without visible leaks points to a head gasket or a cracked head; visible leaks point to the water pump, hoses, thermostat housing or expansion tank. |
| White smoke that smells sweet | Coolant burning in the cylinders, from a head gasket, a cracked head or, on diesels, a leaking EGR cooler. |
| Blue smoke | Oil burning in the cylinders. |
| Rough idle or misfire | Ignition coils, spark plugs, injectors and vacuum leaks are the usual causes. |
| Loss of power | Start with the simple things: air filter, boost leaks on turbo engines, fuel pressure and fault codes. |
| Rattle for a few seconds after a cold start | The classic sign of a weak timing chain tensioner or stretched chain. |
| Whistle, loss of boost or limp mode | A split charge pipe, a sticking wastegate or worn turbo bearings. |
| Black smoke under acceleration | Too much fuel for the air available: boost leaks, a sticking EGR valve, a dirty air mass meter or a leaking injector. |
| Hard starting when cold | Glow plugs or the glow plug control unit. |
| Sudden metallic noise followed by misfire | On diesels with swirl flaps, a broken flap or screw can enter a cylinder. |
| Poor low-down torque and uneven idle | VANOS seals or solenoids. |
| Limp mode with a Valvetronic fault | The Valvetronic motor, its eccentric shaft sensor or the wiring. |
| Hard starting when warm and low compression | On engines with Nikasil bores, the bore coating may be damaged. |
| Oil pressure warning or bearing noise at high revs | On M engines, a warning at high revs can be the first sign of bearing wear. |
Knocking from the bottom of the engine. A deep knock that rises with engine speed usually means worn rod or main bearings. Stop driving: bearing failure ends with a broken connecting rod. A used engine is normally the most economical fix once the bottom end is damaged.
Overheating or losing coolant. Coolant loss without visible leaks points to a head gasket or a cracked head; visible leaks point to the water pump, hoses, thermostat housing or expansion tank. Overheating should be fixed before it warps the head.
White smoke that smells sweet. Coolant burning in the cylinders, from a head gasket, a cracked head or, on diesels, a leaking EGR cooler. Check the coolant level and look for oil in the coolant.
Blue smoke. Oil burning in the cylinders. A puff on start-up points to valve stem seals; constant smoke under load points to piston rings or, on turbo engines, turbo seals.
Rough idle or misfire. Ignition coils, spark plugs, injectors and vacuum leaks are the usual causes. A misfire on one cylinder that moves when you swap coils is a coil; one that stays is a plug, injector or compression problem.
Loss of power. Start with the simple things: air filter, boost leaks on turbo engines, fuel pressure and fault codes. A gradual loss with poor compression on a test points to internal wear.
Rattle for a few seconds after a cold start. The classic sign of a weak timing chain tensioner or stretched chain. It must be checked quickly: a chain that jumps a tooth can bend valves.
Whistle, loss of boost or limp mode. A split charge pipe, a sticking wastegate or worn turbo bearings. Check the pipes first, then the turbo shaft for play.
Black smoke under acceleration. Too much fuel for the air available: boost leaks, a sticking EGR valve, a dirty air mass meter or a leaking injector.
Hard starting when cold. Glow plugs or the glow plug control unit. On older diesels, also check the injection pump and fuel lines for air leaks.
Sudden metallic noise followed by misfire. On diesels with swirl flaps, a broken flap or screw can enter a cylinder. Stop the engine immediately; continued running usually destroys the piston and head.
Poor low-down torque and uneven idle. VANOS seals or solenoids. The engine may run well at high revs but feel flat and lumpy at low speed.
Limp mode with a Valvetronic fault. The Valvetronic motor, its eccentric shaft sensor or the wiring. The engine runs on a reduced throttle until it is repaired.
Hard starting when warm and low compression. On engines with Nikasil bores, the bore coating may be damaged. A leak-down test confirms it.
Oil pressure warning or bearing noise at high revs. On M engines, a warning at high revs can be the first sign of bearing wear. Check the oil level and stop driving hard until it is diagnosed.
Repair or replace the engine in your BMW E46 3 Series?
Repair makes sense when the fault is outside the engine or in a part that can be replaced without opening it: sensors, coils, injectors, gaskets, the water pump or a turbo. Replacement makes sense when the bottom end, the crankshaft, the bores or the head are damaged, because rebuilding an engine properly costs more than a good used unit.
M engines are expensive to rebuild because parts are costly and specialist labour is needed. A used M engine with documented bearings is often the better value for road cars.
Ask your workshop for a written diagnosis before deciding. A compression test, an oil analysis and a borescope inspection take an hour or two and remove most of the guesswork.
Delivery, warranty and payment
Every BMW E46 3 Series engine we sell is drained, sealed at each opening, strapped to a heat-treated pallet and shrink-wrapped before it leaves Hamburg. You receive photographs of the packed engine and a tracking number.
Door-to-door delivery is included to the address you give at checkout. Typical delivery takes three to five working days within Germany and neighbouring countries and five to ten working days to the rest of Europe and the UK.
Every engine carries a 12-month warranty on eligible internal failure when a qualified workshop fits it with new fluids and filters. Payment is by card, bank transfer or crypto; your invoice is emailed as soon as you order.
We deliver BMW E46 3 Series engines from Hamburg to customers across Europe and beyond. Typical door-to-door times and customs status:
| Country | Typical delivery | Customs and VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | 2–4 working days | No customs; German VAT on the invoice |
| Netherlands | 3–5 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| Belgium | 3–5 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| Austria | 3–5 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| Denmark | 3–5 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| Poland | 3–6 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| Czech Republic | 3–6 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| France | 4–7 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| Italy | 5–8 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| Spain | 5–8 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| Portugal | 6–9 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| Sweden | 5–8 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| Norway | 6–10 working days | Export; import VAT and duty in Norway |
| Switzerland | 5–8 working days | Export; import VAT and duty in Switzerland |
| United Kingdom | 5–10 working days | Export; UK import VAT and duty on arrival |
| Ireland | 6–10 working days | EU delivery, no customs |
| United States | Quoted per order | Export; US import duties apply |
| United Arab Emirates | Quoted per order | Export; UAE import duties apply |
Times are typical for pallet delivery after dispatch and can vary with holidays and remote addresses. Business buyers in the EU with a valid VAT number can order without German VAT.
Questions about BMW E46 3 Series engines
Will the M57D30TU engine fit my BMW E46 330d?
Yes, if your BMW E46 330d was built with the M57D30TU. BMW used this 3.0 liter (2,993 cc) diesel engine with 160 kW (218 HP) in the E46 330d from about 2003 to 2010.
In our records the M57D30TU is the engine for the E46 330d, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M57 Engines · Search M57D30TU in the shop
How much is a replacement M57D30TU engine for a BMW E46 330d?
A used M57D30TU for the BMW E46 330d costs from about 2.000 € to 3.200 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M57D30TU you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M57 Engines · Search M57D30TU in the shop
Will the M47D20TU2 engine fit my BMW E46 320d?
Yes, if your BMW E46 320d was built with the M47D20TU2. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) diesel engine with 120 kW (163 HP) in the E46 320d from about 2001 to 2007.
In our records the M47D20TU2 is the engine for the E46 320d, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M47 Engines · Search M47D20TU2 in the shop
How much is a replacement M47D20TU2 engine for a BMW E46 320d?
A used M47D20TU2 for the BMW E46 320d costs from about 1.050 € to 1.850 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M47D20TU2 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M47 Engines · Search M47D20TU2 in the shop
Will the M47D20TU2 engine fit my BMW E46 320td?
Yes, if your BMW E46 320td was built with the M47D20TU2. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) diesel engine with 120 kW (163 HP) in the E46 320td from about 2001 to 2007.
In our records the M47D20TU2 is the engine for the E46 320td, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M47 Engines · Search M47D20TU2 in the shop
How much is a replacement M47D20TU2 engine for a BMW E46 320td?
A used M47D20TU2 for the BMW E46 320td costs from about 1.050 € to 1.850 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M47D20TU2 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M47 Engines · Search M47D20TU2 in the shop
Will the M43B18 engine fit my BMW E46 318i?
Yes, if your BMW E46 318i was built with the M43B18. BMW used this 1.8 liter (1,796 cc) petrol engine with 85 kW (115 HP) in the E46 318i from about 1993 to 2001.
Some E46 318i cars were built with a different engine: the N46B20. These look alike from the outside, so check the code on your engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M43 Engines · Search M43B18 in the shop
How much is a replacement M43B18 engine for a BMW E46 318i?
A used M43B18 for the BMW E46 318i costs from about 800 € to 1.450 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M43B18 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M43 Engines · Search M43B18 in the shop
Will the N46B20 engine fit my BMW E46 318i?
Yes, if your BMW E46 318i was built with the N46B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) petrol engine with 110 kW (150 HP) in the E46 318i from about 2004 to 2012.
Some E46 318i cars were built with a different engine: the M43B18. These look alike from the outside, so check the code on your engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
How much is a replacement N46B20 engine for a BMW E46 318i?
A used N46B20 for the BMW E46 318i costs from about 1.000 € to 1.700 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The N46B20 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Will the M52B28 engine fit my BMW E46 328i?
Yes, if your BMW E46 328i was built with the M52B28. BMW used this 2.8 liter (2,793 cc) petrol engine with 142 kW (193 HP) in the E46 328i from about 1995 to 2000.
In our records the M52B28 is the engine for the E46 328i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M52 Engines · Search M52B28 in the shop
How much is a replacement M52B28 engine for a BMW E46 328i?
A used M52B28 for the BMW E46 328i costs from about 1.500 € to 2.450 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M52B28 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M52 Engines · Search M52B28 in the shop
Will the M52B25 engine fit my BMW E46 323i?
Yes, if your BMW E46 323i was built with the M52B25. BMW used this 2.5 liter (2,494 cc) petrol engine with 125 kW (170 HP) in the E46 323i from about 1995 to 2000.
In our records the M52B25 is the engine for the E46 323i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M52 Engines · Search M52B25 in the shop
How much is a replacement M52B25 engine for a BMW E46 323i?
A used M52B25 for the BMW E46 323i costs from about 1.250 € to 2.100 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M52B25 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M52 Engines · Search M52B25 in the shop
Will the M54B30 engine fit my BMW E46 330i?
Yes, if your BMW E46 330i was built with the M54B30. BMW used this 3.0 liter (2,979 cc) petrol engine with 170 kW (231 HP) in the E46 330i from about 2000 to 2006.
In our records the M54B30 is the engine for the E46 330i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M54 Engines · Search M54B30 in the shop
How much is a replacement M54B30 engine for a BMW E46 330i?
A used M54B30 for the BMW E46 330i costs from about 1.650 € to 2.700 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M54B30 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M54 Engines · Search M54B30 in the shop
Will the M54B30 engine fit my BMW E46 330Ci?
Yes, if your BMW E46 330Ci was built with the M54B30. BMW used this 3.0 liter (2,979 cc) petrol engine with 170 kW (231 HP) in the E46 330Ci from about 2000 to 2006.
In our records the M54B30 is the engine for the E46 330Ci, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M54 Engines · Search M54B30 in the shop
How much is a replacement M54B30 engine for a BMW E46 330Ci?
A used M54B30 for the BMW E46 330Ci costs from about 1.650 € to 2.700 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M54B30 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M54 Engines · Search M54B30 in the shop
Will the M54B25 engine fit my BMW E46 325i?
Yes, if your BMW E46 325i was built with the M54B25. BMW used this 2.5 liter (2,494 cc) petrol engine with 141 kW (192 HP) in the E46 325i from about 2000 to 2006.
In our records the M54B25 is the engine for the E46 325i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M54 Engines · Search M54B25 in the shop
How much is a replacement M54B25 engine for a BMW E46 325i?
A used M54B25 for the BMW E46 325i costs from about 1.300 € to 2.200 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M54B25 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M54 Engines · Search M54B25 in the shop
Will the M54B25 engine fit my BMW E46 325Ci?
Yes, if your BMW E46 325Ci was built with the M54B25. BMW used this 2.5 liter (2,494 cc) petrol engine with 141 kW (192 HP) in the E46 325Ci from about 2000 to 2006.
In our records the M54B25 is the engine for the E46 325Ci, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M54 Engines · Search M54B25 in the shop
How much is a replacement M54B25 engine for a BMW E46 325Ci?
A used M54B25 for the BMW E46 325Ci costs from about 1.300 € to 2.200 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M54B25 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M54 Engines · Search M54B25 in the shop
Will the S54B32 engine fit my BMW E46 M3?
Yes, if your BMW E46 M3 was built with the S54B32. BMW used this 3.2 liter (3,246 cc) petrol engine with 252 kW (343 HP) in the E46 M3 from about 2000 to 2008.
In our records the S54B32 is the engine for the E46 M3, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all S54 Engines · Search S54B32 in the shop
How much is a replacement S54B32 engine for a BMW E46 M3?
A used S54B32 for the BMW E46 M3 costs from about 6.350 € to 9.700 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The S54B32 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all S54 Engines · Search S54B32 in the shop
Will the S54B32 engine fit my BMW E46 M3 CSL?
Yes, if your BMW E46 M3 CSL was built with the S54B32. BMW used this 3.2 liter (3,246 cc) petrol engine with 252 kW (343 HP) in the E46 M3 CSL from about 2000 to 2008.
In our records the S54B32 is the engine for the E46 M3 CSL, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all S54 Engines · Search S54B32 in the shop
How much is a replacement S54B32 engine for a BMW E46 M3 CSL?
A used S54B32 for the BMW E46 M3 CSL costs from about 6.350 € to 9.700 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The S54B32 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all S54 Engines · Search S54B32 in the shop
Can I put a 2JZ-GTE engine in my BMW E46?
Yes. We sell conversion kits that fit the 2JZ-GTE into the BMW E46. The kit replaces the M50, M52 and M54, and works with the Getrag 420G, ZF GS6 and R154.
You can buy the full package with an engine, or only the parts you need: complete conversion with engine, complete conversion, adapter plate, engine mount, wiring and ecu and cooling and exhaust.
A swap like this needs a skilled workshop. Mounts, the adapter, the wiring and the engine computer, the cooling and the exhaust all have to work together. Check your local road rules for engine swaps before you start.
Tell us your BMW E46's year and current set-up, and we suggest the right parts. You can reach the Hamburg desk by email at autowerkeengines@gmail.com, or by phone and WhatsApp on +49 15510 030835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 16:00 CET.
See all 2JZ BMW Conversion Kits · Conversion guide
Can I put a B58B30 engine in my BMW E46?
Yes. We sell conversion kits that fit the B58B30 into the BMW E46. The kit replaces the M54, N52 and N55, and works with the ZF 8HP and ZF GS6-53.
You can buy the full package with an engine, or only the parts you need: complete conversion with engine, complete conversion, adapter plate, engine mount, wiring and ecu and cooling and exhaust.
A swap like this needs a skilled workshop. Mounts, the adapter, the wiring and the engine computer, the cooling and the exhaust all have to work together. Check your local road rules for engine swaps before you start.
Tell us your BMW E46's year and current set-up, and we suggest the right parts. You can reach the Hamburg desk by email at autowerkeengines@gmail.com, or by phone and WhatsApp on +49 15510 030835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 16:00 CET.
See all B58 BMW Conversion Kits · Conversion guide
Can I put an S54B32 engine in my BMW E46?
Yes. We sell conversion kits that fit the S54B32 into the BMW E46. The kit replaces the M20, M50 and M52, and works with the ZF GS6-37 and Getrag 250.
You can buy the full package with an engine, or only the parts you need: complete conversion with engine, complete conversion, adapter plate, engine mount, wiring and ecu and cooling and exhaust.
A swap like this needs a skilled workshop. Mounts, the adapter, the wiring and the engine computer, the cooling and the exhaust all have to work together. Check your local road rules for engine swaps before you start.
Tell us your BMW E46's year and current set-up, and we suggest the right parts. You can reach the Hamburg desk by email at autowerkeengines@gmail.com, or by phone and WhatsApp on +49 15510 030835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 16:00 CET.
See all S54 BMW Conversion Kits · Conversion guide
Can I put an N55B30 engine in my BMW E46?
Yes. We sell conversion kits that fit the N55B30 into the BMW E46. The kit replaces the M52, M54 and M50, and works with the ZF GS6 and Getrag 420G.
You can buy the full package with an engine, or only the parts you need: complete conversion with engine, complete conversion, adapter plate, engine mount, wiring and ecu and cooling and exhaust.
A swap like this needs a skilled workshop. Mounts, the adapter, the wiring and the engine computer, the cooling and the exhaust all have to work together. Check your local road rules for engine swaps before you start.
Tell us your BMW E46's year and current set-up, and we suggest the right parts. You can reach the Hamburg desk by email at autowerkeengines@gmail.com, or by phone and WhatsApp on +49 15510 030835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 16:00 CET.
See all N55 BMW Conversion Kits · Conversion guide
Can I put an LS3 engine in my BMW E46?
Yes. We sell conversion kits that fit the LS3 into the BMW E46. The kit replaces the M50, M54 and S52, and works with the T56, TR6060 and ZF GS6.
You can buy the full package with an engine, or only the parts you need: complete conversion with engine, complete conversion, adapter plate, engine mount, wiring and ecu and cooling and exhaust.
A swap like this needs a skilled workshop. Mounts, the adapter, the wiring and the engine computer, the cooling and the exhaust all have to work together. Check your local road rules for engine swaps before you start.
Tell us your BMW E46's year and current set-up, and we suggest the right parts. You can reach the Hamburg desk by email at autowerkeengines@gmail.com, or by phone and WhatsApp on +49 15510 030835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 16:00 CET.
See all LS BMW Conversion Kits · Conversion guide
Can I put a BMW M57 / N57 / B58 engine in my BMW E46?
Yes. We sell conversion kits that fit the BMW M57 / N57 / B58 into the BMW E46. The kit replaces the Getrag 5-speed and GM 5L40, and works with the ZF 8HP, ZF GS6-53 and DCT.
You can buy the full package with an engine, or only the parts you need: gearbox conversion, transfer case adapter, clutch and flywheel and propshaft.
A swap like this needs a skilled workshop. Mounts, the adapter, the wiring and the engine computer, the cooling and the exhaust all have to work together. Check your local road rules for engine swaps before you start.
Tell us your BMW E46's year and current set-up, and we suggest the right parts. You can reach the Hamburg desk by email at autowerkeengines@gmail.com, or by phone and WhatsApp on +49 15510 030835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 16:00 CET.
See all BMW Gearbox Conversion Kits · Conversion guide
Glossary
- VANOS — BMW's variable camshaft timing system. It adjusts the intake camshaft (single VANOS) or both camshafts (double VANOS) to improve torque and emissions.
- Valvetronic — BMW's variable valve lift system. It controls engine load with the intake valves instead of a throttle plate, improving economy.
- Wastegate — A valve that lets exhaust gas bypass the turbine to control boost pressure. Worn wastegates rattle and can cause boost faults.
- EGR — Exhaust gas recirculation. It feeds some exhaust back into the intake to reduce NOx emissions but builds up soot.
- Swirl flaps — Flaps in the intake manifold that create swirl at low revs. On some BMW diesels they can break and enter the engine.
- Common rail — A diesel injection system with a high-pressure fuel rail feeding all injectors. It allows precise, multiple injections per cycle.
- Nikasil — A nickel-silicon carbide coating used on the cylinder bores of some BMW engines in the 1990s. It was damaged by high-sulphur fuel.
- Long block — An engine with the block, head and internals but without most ancillaries such as manifolds, turbo, alternator or starter.
- Dressed engine — An engine with most ancillaries fitted, ready to install with fewer parts transferred.
- Compression test — A measurement of the pressure each cylinder builds when cranked. Even readings show healthy rings and valves.
- Leak-down test — A test that pressurises each cylinder and measures how much air escapes, showing where any leak is.
- LCI — Life Cycle Impulse, BMW's name for a mid-life update. Engines often change at the LCI.
- xDrive — BMW's all-wheel-drive system. xDrive cars often use a different sump and oil pickup.
- DME — Digital Motor Electronics, BMW's name for the engine control unit.
- CAS, FEM and BDC — The immobiliser and body modules that must be matched to the engine control unit on modern BMWs.
- Rod bearings — The bearings between the connecting rods and the crankshaft. On several M engines they wear and are replaced preventively.
- ITB — Individual throttle bodies, one per cylinder, used on most naturally aspirated M engines for sharp response.
- Timing chain tensioner — A hydraulic or spring device that keeps the timing chain tight. Worn tensioners cause cold-start rattle.
- TU — Technical Update, BMW's suffix for a revised version of an engine.
Our verdict
The BMW E46 3 Series offers a wide choice of engines, and the right replacement depends on your exact model, build date and gearbox. Confirm the code with your VIN, choose a unit with known history, replace the known weak parts while it is out, and the car will be back on the road for years.
See every BMW E46 3 Series engine in stock, or ask the Hamburg desk to check your VIN.
Model-by-model engine guides
- BMW 316i (E46) engine: which one, problems and replacement
- BMW 318i (E46) engine: which one, problems and replacement
- BMW 325i (E46) engine: which one, problems and replacement
- BMW 330i (E46) engine: which one, problems and replacement
- BMW M3 (E46) engine: which one, problems and replacement
- BMW 320d (E46) engine: which one, problems and replacement
- BMW 325d (E46) engine: which one, problems and replacement
- BMW 330d (E46) engine: which one, problems and replacement
