BMW built the M52TUB28 from 1998 to 2000. It is a 2.8 L naturally aspirated petrol inline-6 with 193 hp and 280 Nm, part of the M52 family. You will find it in the BMW E46 328i, BMW E39 528i and BMW E38 728i.
This guide is about the M52TUB28 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other M52 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our M52 guide.
- Capacity and layout: 2.8 L, inline-6, naturally aspirated
- Output: 193 hp and 280 Nm
- Production: 1998–2000
- Fitted to: 3 models across 3 chassis generations
- In our stock: 4 units from 1.301,00 €
M52TUB28 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | M52TUB28 |
| Family | M52 |
| Capacity | 2.8 L |
| Layout | Inline-6 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 193 hp |
| Torque | 280 Nm |
| Specific output | 69 hp per litre |
| Production | 1998–2000 |
| Models | 3 |
Built from 1998 to 2000, the M52TUB28 displaces 2.8 L in an inline-6 layout and is naturally aspirated. It produces 193 hp and 280 Nm on petrol. That is about 69 hp and 100 Nm per litre, a relaxed tune aimed at torque, durability and economy. Within the M52 family, it is the most powerful version, while the M52B20 (150 hp) and M52B25 (170 hp) are milder. It was fitted to the BMW E46 328i, BMW E39 528i and BMW E38 728i.
Which BMW models use the M52TUB28
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E46 328i | fourth 3 Series | 1997–2006 |
| BMW E39 528i | fourth 5 Series | 1995–2004 |
| BMW E38 728i | third 7 Series | 1994–2001 |
In the E46 fourth 3 Series (1997–2006), the M52TUB28 powered the 328i. We have 1 M52TUB28 unit from E46 donor cars. All E46 engines
In the E39 fourth 5 Series (1995–2004), the M52TUB28 powered the 528i. We have 1 M52TUB28 unit from E39 donor cars. All E39 engines
In the E38 third 7 Series (1994–2001), the M52TUB28 powered the 728i. We have 1 M52TUB28 unit from E38 donor cars. All E38 engines
M52TUB28 compared with other M52 versions
| Code | Capacity | Power | Torque | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M52B20 | 2.0 L | 150 hp | 190 Nm | 1994–2000 |
| M52B25 | 2.5 L | 170 hp | 245 Nm | 1995–2000 |
| M52B28 | 2.8 L | 193 hp | 280 Nm | 1995–2000 |
| M52TUB28 | 2.8 L | 193 hp | 280 Nm | 1998–2000 |
M52TUB28 or M52B28?
The M52B28 has the same 193 hp as the M52TUB28, from the same 2.8 L, and was built 1995–2000. Versions of the same size share the block and most mounting points, but the turbo or intake, injectors, software and sometimes the sump differ. Fitting one in place of the other usually means transferring parts and coding the engine control unit, so the simplest choice is the code your car left the factory with.
M52TUB28 or M52B25?
The M52B25 has 23 hp less than the M52TUB28 (170 against 193 hp), from 2.5 L instead of 2.8 L, and was built 1995–2000. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.
M52TUB28 or M52B20?
The M52B20 has 43 hp less than the M52TUB28 (150 against 193 hp), from 2.0 L instead of 2.8 L, and was built 1994–2000. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.
Common M52TUB28 problems
The M52TUB28 shares its weak points with the rest of the M52 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the M52 guide.
| Known fault | What to check |
|---|---|
| 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. |
Cooling system. Plastic water pump impellers, thermostat housings and radiator necks crack.
M52TUB28 maintenance
- 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic to BMW Longlife standard, about 6.5 litres with filter.
- Oil every 10,000 to 15,000 km; VANOS seals and cooling every 100,000 km.
- Duplex lower and single upper chains at the front with hydraulic tensioner.
Will the M52TUB28 fit my car?
Will the M52TUB28 fit my BMW E46 328i?
Yes, the BMW E46 328i left the factory with the M52TUB28, so an M52TUB28 from another car is the direct replacement. 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 M52TUB28 fit my BMW E39 528i?
The M52TUB28 is the original engine for the BMW E39 528i, which makes it the straightforward choice. The fourth 5 Series was built 1995–2004, 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 E39 528i?
We have 1 M52TUB28 engine from E39 donor cars, priced from 1.443,00 €. 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 M52TUB28 fit my BMW E38 728i?
For the BMW E38 728i, the M52TUB28 is the factory engine and the one to order. The third 7 Series was built 1994–2001, 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 E38 728i?
We have 1 M52TUB28 engine from E38 donor cars, priced from 1.427,00 €. 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.
M52TUB28 prices
Across 4 M52TUB28 units in our stock today, prices start at 1.301,00 € and reach 1.443,00 €. The median — the price in the middle of the range — is 1.427,00 €.
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.
M52TUB28 engines in stock
These M52TUB28 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 E38 728i M52TUB28 Complete Engine1.427,00 €
BMW E39 528i M52TUB28 Complete Engine1.443,00 €
BMW E46 328i M52TUB28 Complete Engine1.301,00 €BMW E38 728i M52TUB28 Complete Engine — 1.427,00 €, reduced from 1.900,00 €. It comes from a recorded donor car, and 15 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.
BMW E39 528i M52TUB28 Complete Engine — 1.443,00 €, reduced from 1.900,00 €. It comes from a recorded donor car, and 27 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.
BMW E46 328i M52TUB28 Complete Engine — 1.301,00 €, reduced from 1.900,00 €. It comes from a recorded donor car, and 28 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.
Buying a used M52TUB28: checklist
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Questions about the M52TUB28
What should I check on a used BMW M52 engine?
Start with the basics: the engine code on the block, the recorded mileage and the photos. Make sure the code matches your car and the parts you need are on the unit.
On an M52 petrol engine, a fitter usually checks the spark plugs, the coils, the timing side and the oil seals. These parts are easy to check before fitting and easy to change if needed.
If you want more photos or a short video of a unit, ask the desk and we send them before you pay. An inspection certificate can travel with the order on request.
Once fitted, change the oil and filter early and drive gently at first. Report any problem right away so the warranty stays valid.
See all M52 Engines · Inspection certificate
What should I replace when I fit a used M52B28 engine?
A used engine lasts longest when it starts life in your car with fresh fluids and new seals. Fit a new oil filter and fresh oil of the grade BMW lists for this engine, and refill the coolant with the correct BMW antifreeze mix. Check the spark plugs and the ignition coils, and make sure the fuel lines are clean and tight before you crank the engine. Change the drive belt, the thermostat and the water pump seals if they look tired, because they are cheap while the engine is out.
Look at the engine mounts and the clutch or the torque converter while the engine is out. Old mounts can crack a new engine's brackets, and a worn clutch is much easier to change now.
Before the first start, turn the engine over without fuel until the oil pressure light goes out. Then let it idle, check for leaks, and drive gently for the first few hundred kilometres.
The warranty asks for fitting by a qualified mechanic and the correct oil, coolant and filters. Keep your receipts in case you ever need to make a claim.
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
How much does a used BMW M52B25 engine cost?
A used BMW M52B25 engine in our yard usually costs between 1.250 € and 2.100 €. The exact price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Our units show recorded mileage from about 22,000 km up to around 200,000 km. Lower mileage and more ancillaries mean a higher price. Each listing shows its own price, and the price you see is the price you pay. Prices include VAT for private buyers.
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. If you order a gearbox or a second engine on the same order, the fee is still charged once.
Inside the EU there is no import duty. For the UK and other non-EU countries, import duty and local VAT are paid by the receiver, and we supply a commercial invoice.
See all M52 Engines · Search M52B25 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
Will the M52B25 engine fit my BMW E39 523i?
Yes, if your BMW E39 523i was built with the M52B25. BMW used this 2.5 liter (2,494 cc) petrol engine with 125 kW (170 HP) in the E39 523i from about 1995 to 2000.
In our records the M52B25 is the engine for the E39 523i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E39 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
Will the M52B28 engine fit my BMW E36 328i?
Yes, if your BMW E36 328i was built with the M52B28. BMW used this 2.8 liter (2,793 cc) petrol engine with 142 kW (193 HP) in the E36 328i from about 1995 to 2000.
In our records the M52B28 is the engine for the E36 328i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E36 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 long does delivery of an M52B28 engine take?
Orders confirmed before 14:00 CET on a working day leave Hamburg the same day. Later and weekend orders leave the next working day. Delivery to the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, Luxembourg and Denmark takes 1 to 3 working days.
Spain, Italy, Portugal, Poland, Czechia, Austria, Ireland, the Nordics and the Baltics take 2 to 5 working days. Greek and Spanish islands, Malta, Cyprus and remote areas take 4 to 8 working days. The UK and other countries outside the EU are quoted one by one.
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. Every engine is drained, sealed at each opening, strapped to a heat-treated pallet and shrink-wrapped, then photographed before it leaves the yard.
You get a tracking number when the pallet is collected. Check the wrapping before you sign, and note any damage on the paperwork.
See all M52 Engines · Search M52B28 in the shop
What is the difference between the BMW M52 engines?
BMW M52 petrol engines for E36, E39, E46 and Z3. We list 2 versions: M52B28 (2.8 liter (2,793 cc), 142 kW (193 HP), 1995 to 2000); M52B25 (2.5 liter (2,494 cc), 125 kW (170 HP), 1995 to 2000).
The versions share the same basic design, but the power, the turbo or injection set-up, the electronics and the emission standard change. The right one for you is the one your car was built with.
The M52 family was used in chassis E36, E39, E46, Z3 and E38. Before a unit is listed, the yard checks the engine code against the listing, writes down the parts fitted to it, seals every opening and photographs the real engine you will receive.
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.
How much does a used BMW M52B28 engine cost?
A used BMW M52B28 engine in our yard usually costs between 1.500 € and 2.450 €. The exact price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Our units show recorded mileage from about 22,000 km up to around 200,000 km. Lower mileage and more ancillaries mean a higher price. Each listing shows its own price, and the price you see is the price you pay. Prices include VAT for private buyers.
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. If you order a gearbox or a second engine on the same order, the fee is still charged once.
Inside the EU there is no import duty. For the UK and other non-EU countries, import duty and local VAT are paid by the receiver, and we supply a commercial invoice.
See all M52 Engines · Search M52B28 in the shop
Does a used M52B25 engine come with a warranty?
Yes. 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.
The warranty does not cover damage from wrong fitting, overheating, low oil, wrong fluids or fuel, engines that were opened or modified without our approval, or labour and towing costs.
To claim, send us your order number, a short description of the problem, photos or a video, and a mechanic's report if we ask for one. If the claim is approved, we repair, replace or refund the engine.
Keep the receipts for the fitting, the oil and the filters. They make any claim quick and simple.
See all M52 Engines · Search M52B25 in the shop
Which cars use the BMW M52B28 engine?
BMW fitted the M52B28 to the BMW E36 328i, BMW E39 528i, BMW E46 328i, BMW Z3 2.8 and BMW E38 728i. These cars were built with this engine from about 1995 to 2000.
The badge on the boot is not enough to be sure. The same model name can hide two different engines, for example after a facelift or a change in emission rules. Always read the engine code stamped on the block, or look it up with your VIN.
Other engines in the same M52 family are the M52B25 (170 HP). They look alike but differ in power, parts and electronics, so they are not always a direct swap.
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
Delivery, warranty and payment
Every M52TUB28 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.
A 12-month warranty covers eligible internal failure when the engine is fitted by a qualified workshop with new fluids and filters. You can pay by card, bank transfer or crypto and receive the invoice by email straight away.
