BMW S38B38 engine: specs, problems and prices

BMW built the S38B38 from 1992 to 1996. It is a 3.8 L naturally aspirated petrol inline-6 with 340 hp and 400 Nm, part of the S38 family. You will find it in the BMW E34 M5 3.8.

This guide is about the S38B38 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other S38 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our M88 and S38 guide.

• Capacity and layout: 3.8 L, inline-6, naturally aspirated
• Output: 340 hp and 400 Nm
• Production: 1992–1996
• Fitted to: 1 model across 1 chassis generation
• In our stock: 28 units from 7.281,00 € — S38B38 engines for sale

S38B38 specifications

The S38B38 is a 3.8 L inline-6 petrol engine, naturally aspirated, rated at 340 hp and 400 Nm. BMW built it from 1992 to 1996. That is about 89 hp and 105 Nm per litre, a strong figure for a road engine of its era. Within the S38 family, it is the most powerful version, while the S38B35 (260 hp) and S38B36 (315 hp) are milder. It was fitted to the BMW E34 M5 3.8.

What the code S38B38 means

• S marks an S-series code, reserved for engines developed by BMW M.
• 38 is the family number.
• B stands for petrol (from the German Benzin).
• 38 is the capacity in decilitres, so 3.8 litres.

Which BMW models use the S38B38

In the E34 third 5 Series (1988–1996), the S38B38 powered the M5 3.8. We have 26 S38B38 units from E34 donor cars. All E34 engines

S38B38 compared with other S38 versions

S38B38 or S38B36?

The S38B36 has 25 hp less than the S38B38 (315 against 340 hp), from 3.6 L instead of 3.8 L, and was built 1992–1995. 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.

S38B38 or S38B35?

The S38B35 has 80 hp less than the S38B38 (260 against 340 hp), from 3.5 L instead of 3.8 L, and was built 1988–1992. 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 S38B38 problems

The S38B38 shares its weak points with the rest of the S38 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the M88 and S38 guide.

Valve clearances. Shim-type valve gear needs regular checks; neglected engines burn exhaust valves.

S38B38 maintenance

• 10W-60 synthetic is common, about 5.8 litres.
• Oil every 7,500 to 10,000 km; valve clearances every 20,000 km.
• Duplex timing chain with hydraulic tensioner.

Will the S38B38 fit my car?

S38B38 prices

Across 28 S38B38 units in our stock today, prices start at 7.281,00 € and reach 11.942,00 €. The median — the price in the middle of the range — is 9.023,00 €.

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.

S38B38 prices by model year

Engines from 1990–1994 have a median of 9.014,00 €, while units from 1995–1999 sit at 9.413,00 €. Newer engines usually cost more because they come from younger donor cars with lower mileage and later updates.

S38B38 prices by mileage

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.

S38B38 engines in stock

These S38B38 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 E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1991, 111,400 km9.660,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1994, 86,200 km10.510,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1992, 58,300 km9.014,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1992, 182,400 km7.585,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1993, 191,400 km7.281,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1992, 196,900 km10.066,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1992, 156,500 km7.717,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1993, 167,900 km7.628,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1993, 104,000 km9.023,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1994, 137,600 km8.088,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1992, 107,000 km7.631,00 €BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1994, 57,400 km8.749,00 €

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1991, 111,400 km — 9.660,00 €, reduced from 10.550,00 €. It comes from a 1991 donor car with 111,400 km, and 16 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1994, 86,200 km — 10.510,00 €, reduced from 11.500,00 €. It comes from a 1994 donor car with 86,200 km, and 16 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1992, 58,300 km — 9.014,00 €, reduced from 9.850,00 €. It comes from a 1992 donor car with 58,300 km, and 10 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1992, 182,400 km — 7.585,00 €, reduced from 8.700,00 €. It comes from a 1992 donor car with 182,400 km, and 10 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1993, 191,400 km — 7.281,00 €, reduced from 8.650,00 €. It comes from a 1993 donor car with 191,400 km, and 24 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1992, 196,900 km — 10.066,00 €, reduced from 11.050,00 €. It comes from a 1992 donor car with 196,900 km, and 12 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1992, 156,500 km — 7.717,00 €, reduced from 8.850,00 €. It comes from a 1992 donor car with 156,500 km, and 25 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1993, 167,900 km — 7.628,00 €, reduced from 9.000,00 €. It comes from a 1993 donor car with 167,900 km, and 6 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1993, 104,000 km — 9.023,00 €, reduced from 10.500,00 €. It comes from a 1993 donor car with 104,000 km, and 21 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1994, 137,600 km — 8.088,00 €, reduced from 9.050,00 €. It comes from a 1994 donor car with 137,600 km, and 21 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1992, 107,000 km — 7.631,00 €, reduced from 8.700,00 €. It comes from a 1992 donor car with 107,000 km, and 23 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.

BMW E34 M5 3.8 S38B38 Engine 1994, 57,400 km — 8.749,00 €, reduced from 9.400,00 €. It comes from a 1994 donor car with 57,400 km, and 27 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

Buying a used S38B38: checklist

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Originality and numbers. For collectible cars, the engine number and correct ancillaries add value. Photograph the stamp and keep it with the car's documents.

Questions about the S38B38

Is the BMW S38B38 a diesel or petrol engine?

The S38B38 is a petrol engine. It is a 3.8 liter (3,795 cc) inline 6, DOHC, 24 valve unit with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and it was built to the Euro 1 emission standard.

The emission standard matters for registration and for low-emission zones in many cities. When you replace an engine with the same code, the car keeps the same paperwork and the same emission class.

Petrol versions need the correct catalytic converters and oxygen sensors on the car to stay legal and to keep the engine computer happy. Reuse the parts from your car if they are in good condition.

If you are not sure which version you need, send us your VIN. We tell you the right code for free.

See all S38 Engines · Search S38B38 in the shop

How do I know a used S38B38 engine is in good shape?

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. An inspection certificate for the unit can travel with the order when you ask for it.

When you look at a listing, check the recorded mileage, the year and the photos of the ports and the stamp. Ask for photos of anything you want to see closer. Ask the desk for more pictures of any listing. We are happy to show the stamp, the ports and the ancillaries before you decide.

On a petrol engine like the S38B38, a careful fitter will also look at the spark plugs, the coils and the timing side before the engine goes in.

If the engine fails inside under normal use, the warranty covers you. 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.

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How much is a replacement S38B38 engine for a BMW E34 M5 3.8?

A used S38B38 for the BMW E34 M5 3.8 costs from about 7.000 € to 10.700 € 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 S38B38 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.

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What should I replace when I fit a used S38B38 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. Change the drive belt, the thermostat and the water pump seals if they look tired, because they are cheap while the engine is out. Use new gaskets for the exhaust manifold, the intake and the sump plug, and check every hose clip before the first start.

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.

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Which cars use the BMW S38B38 engine?

BMW fitted the S38B38 to the BMW E34 M5 3.8 and BMW E34 M5 Touring. These cars were built with this engine from about 1991 to 1995.

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 S38 family are the S38B36 (315 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.

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How much does a used BMW S38B38 engine cost?

A used BMW S38B38 engine in our yard usually costs between 7.000 € and 10.700 €. 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.

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What comes with a used S38B38 engine?

Each S38B38 is sold as described on its own listing. The yard writes down the parts that are fitted to that unit, such as the turbo, the injectors, the manifolds or the alternator, so you know what arrives.

Some units are long engines with few ancillaries, others are more complete. If you need a part that is not listed, ask the desk. We often have the matching items in the yard.

Every engine is drained, sealed at each opening, strapped to a heat-treated pallet and shrink-wrapped, then photographed before it leaves the yard.

On delivery, the carrier brings the pallet to the kerb or a loading bay. Please have a forklift, a pallet truck or an engine crane ready.

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Does a used S38B38 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.

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How much is a replacement S38B38 engine for a BMW E34 M5 Touring?

A used S38B38 for the BMW E34 M5 Touring costs from about 7.000 € to 10.700 € 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 S38B38 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 S38 Engines · Search S38B38 in the shop

What is the difference between the S38B38 and other S38 engines?

The S38B38 makes 250 kW (340 HP) and 400 Nm. The other S38 engines are: S38B36 with 232 kW (315 HP) and 360 Nm (1988 to 1992).

Engines in one family share a basic block, but the turbo, the injection, the sensors and the engine computer can differ. A higher power version often has different pistons, a bigger turbo or a different fuel system.

This is why we ask for the exact code. Fitting a different version can work, but the wiring, the software and sometimes the gearbox must be changed to match.

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.

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Will the S38B38 engine fit my BMW E34 M5 Touring?

Yes, if your BMW E34 M5 Touring was built with the S38B38. BMW used this 3.8 liter (3,795 cc) petrol engine with 250 kW (340 HP) in the E34 M5 Touring from about 1991 to 1995.

In our records the S38B38 is the engine for the E34 M5 Touring, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.

Also tell us if your E34 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.

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Will the S38B38 engine fit my BMW E34 M5 3.8?

Yes, if your BMW E34 M5 3.8 was built with the S38B38. BMW used this 3.8 liter (3,795 cc) petrol engine with 250 kW (340 HP) in the E34 M5 3.8 from about 1991 to 1995.

In our records the S38B38 is the engine for the E34 M5 3.8, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.

Also tell us if your E34 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 S38 Engines · Search S38B38 in the shop

What is the BMW S38B38 engine?

The BMW S38B38 is a 3.8 liter (3,795 cc) petrol engine from the S38 family. It has an inline 6, DOHC, 24 valve layout with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and makes 250 kW (340 HP) with 400 Nm of torque. BMW built it from 1991 to 1995 and it meets the Euro 1 emission standard.

You find the S38B38 in the BMW E34 M5 3.8 and BMW E34 M5 Touring. What we list: BMW S38 engines from the E28 M5 and E34 M5.

At Autowerke Engines every S38B38 is a real used engine from our yard in Hamburg. Each engine in the yard is inspected in Hamburg. The code is matched to the listing, the parts on the engine are recorded, the openings are sealed and the real unit is photographed. Each listing shows the year, the mileage and the price, so you can compare units side by side.

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.

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How much power and torque does the BMW S38B38 have?

From the factory the BMW S38B38 makes 250 kW (340 HP) and 400 Nm of torque. It is a 3.8 liter (3,795 cc) inline 6, DOHC, 24 valve petrol engine with no turbo (naturally aspirated).

Without a turbo, the power builds smoothly with the revs. A clean air intake, healthy ignition and the correct fuel are key to getting the full figure.

A used engine reaches its factory numbers when it is fitted with the matching engine computer and software, and serviced with the right oil and filters. If the engine computer from your car is a different version, a specialist may need to code it.

Every S38B38 on our site lists its year and mileage. If you want more photos or a short video of a unit, ask the desk and we send them before you pay.

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How long does delivery of an S38B38 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.

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Can you check if an S38B38 fits my car with my VIN?

Yes, and it is free. Send the 17-character VIN of your car and, if you have it, the gearbox code. We check the engine family, the build year window and the parts your car needs.

For the S38B38, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW E34 M5 3.8 and BMW E34 M5 Touring.

We only reserve an engine once the match is confirmed, so you never pay for the wrong unit. 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.

You can also use the VIN check on our site. It reads the year, the make, the model and the engine from the public vehicle register.

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Delivery, warranty and payment

Every S38B38 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.

Delivery is door to door and included in the price. Most European addresses receive the engine within five to ten working days; Germany and its neighbours are usually faster.

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.

M88 and S38 engine guide · S38B38 engines for sale · All M88 and S38 engines · Send us your VIN