BMW X5 30i (E70) engine: which one, problems and replacement

The BMW X5 30i in the second X5 generation (E70, built 2006–2013) was built with one engine, the N52B30: a 3.0 L petrol inline-6 with 258 hp.

This guide tells you which engine your X5 30i has, what goes wrong with it, what a replacement costs from our stock and what else to plan for when you fit one.

• Generation: second X5, 2006–2013
• Body styles: E70 (SAV)
• Engines: N52B30
• Output: 258 hp
• Replacement engines in stock: 128 from 1.861,00 €

Which engine is in your X5 30i?

N52B30 in the X5 30i

The N52B30 was used in the E70 X5 30i, built 2004–2015. It is a 3.0 L naturally aspirated petrol inline-6 with 258 hp and 300 Nm.

Reading the code: N marks an N-series code, the generation of BMW engines introduced from 2001; 52 is the family number; B stands for petrol (from the German Benzin); 30 is the capacity in decilitres, so 3.0 litres.

X5 30i engines by model year

The X5 30i kept the same engine for the whole E70 run, which makes ordering simple: any unit with the same code fits, subject to the gearbox, drive type and sump.

Other cars with the same engine as the X5 30i

A replacement engine does not have to come from another X5 30i. These models left the factory with the same engine code, so a unit from any of them is a candidate donor once the sump, mounts and ancillaries are matched to your car.

N52B30: BMW E90 330i, BMW E60 530i, BMW E89 Z4 30i, BMW E83 X3 3.0si.

How to confirm your engine code

The X5 30i only used the N52B30, but the exact version can still change with the build date, gearbox and market. Send us the last seven characters of the VIN and we read the engine code from BMW's records, or look for the code stamped on the block. How to find your BMW engine code.

Known X5 30i engine problems

The N52B30 in the X5 30i shares the known weak points of the N52 family. Full N52 guide.

Hydraulic lifter tick. Some engines tick on cold start because lifters drain down.

Electric water pump and thermostat. The pump fails around 100,000 km with little warning.

Valve cover gasket and eccentric shaft sensor. The plastic valve cover leaks and its sensor gasket fails.

Oil filter housing gasket. Leaks oil down the block and onto belts.

VANOS solenoids. Dirty solenoids cause rough idle and codes.

Symptoms to watch for on the X5 30i

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.

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.

Looking after the X5 30i engine

• Oil: 5W-30 BMW Longlife-01 or 04, about 6.5 litres.
• Service interval: Oil every 10,000 to 15,000 km.
• Timing drive: Timing chain at the front.
• Workshop notes: Fit a new water pump and thermostat with any used N52; they are on the outside and cheap compared with labour later.

Buying a used engine for the X5 30i: checklist

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
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. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. Electric water pump. This engine uses an electric water pump. It fails without warning and needs a diagnostic bleeding routine when it is replaced or the system is refilled.

BMW X5 30i replacement engine cost

We currently hold 128 X5 30i engine engines. The cheapest is 1.861,00 €, the most expensive 2.949,00 €, and half of them cost less than 2.463,00 €.

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.

X5 30i engine prices by model year

Engines from 2005–2009 have a median of 2.463,00 €, while units from 2010–2014 sit at 2.431,00 €. Newer engines usually cost more because they come from younger donor cars with lower mileage and later updates.

X5 30i engine 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.

On top of the engine, budget for the workshop's labour and the parts that are best replaced while the engine is out: engine mounts, the rear main seal, cooling parts, a clutch or converter seal, fluids and filters.

Replacement engines in stock for the X5 30i

These X5 30i 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 E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2010, 133,300 km2.854,00 €BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2009, 204,000 km2.619,00 €BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2010, 138,500 km2.566,00 €BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2008, 139,500 km2.855,00 €BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2010, 52,200 km2.732,00 €BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2008, 121,700 km2.766,00 €BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2010, 201,600 km2.730,00 €BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2005, 142,200 km2.158,00 €BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2011, 80,900 km1.916,00 €BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2008, 157,900 km2.463,00 €BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2006, 190,400 km2.506,00 €BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2009, 120,600 km2.341,00 €

BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2010, 133,300 km — 2.854,00 €, reduced from 4.000,00 €. It comes from a 2010 donor car with 133,300 km, and 10 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.

BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2009, 204,000 km — 2.619,00 €, reduced from 3.500,00 €. It comes from a 2009 donor car with 204,000 km, and 21 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.

BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2010, 138,500 km — 2.566,00 €, reduced from 3.750,00 €. It comes from a 2010 donor car with 138,500 km, and 20 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.

BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2008, 139,500 km — 2.855,00 €, reduced from 3.500,00 €. It comes from a 2008 donor car with 139,500 km, and 16 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.

BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2010, 52,200 km — 2.732,00 €, reduced from 3.800,00 €. It comes from a 2010 donor car with 52,200 km, and 7 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2008, 121,700 km — 2.766,00 €, reduced from 3.450,00 €. It comes from a 2008 donor car with 121,700 km, and 21 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2010, 201,600 km — 2.730,00 €, reduced from 3.500,00 €. It comes from a 2010 donor car with 201,600 km, and 28 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2005, 142,200 km — 2.158,00 €, reduced from 3.450,00 €. It comes from a 2005 donor car with 142,200 km, and 6 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.

BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2011, 80,900 km — 1.916,00 €, reduced from 2.800,00 €. It comes from a 2011 donor car with 80,900 km, and 16 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.

BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2008, 157,900 km — 2.463,00 €, reduced from 3.650,00 €. It comes from a 2008 donor car with 157,900 km, and 18 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.

BMW E60 530i N52B30 Engine 2006, 190,400 km — 2.506,00 €, reduced from 3.400,00 €. It comes from a 2006 donor car with 190,400 km, and 13 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.

BMW E90 330i N52B30 Engine 2009, 120,600 km — 2.341,00 €, reduced from 3.500,00 €. It comes from a 2009 donor car with 120,600 km, and 19 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.

Will it fit my X5 30i?

Will the N52B30 fit my BMW E70 X5 30i?

The N52B30 is the original engine for the BMW E70 X5 30i, which makes it the straightforward choice. The second X5 was built 2006–2013, and the N52B30 was produced 2004–2015, 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 E70 X5 30i?

We have 128 N52B30 engines in stock, priced from 1.861,00 € to 2.949,00 €. 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.

Engine swaps and upgrades for the X5 30i

These engines were fitted to other versions of the E70 at the factory, which makes them the most practical upgrades: the body was designed around them and many parts are shared.

Can I fit the M57D30TU2 in my X5 30i?

It is a full conversion: the M57D30TU2 runs on diesel and the N52B30 on petrol, so the fuel system, wiring, engine control unit, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 28 hp and 280 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe an engine swap must be inspected and registered.

Can I fit the N55B30 in my X5 30i?

Yes, it is one of the more common upgrades. Both are petrol inline-6 engines, so the mounting points are similar, but the N55B30 needs its own wiring and engine control unit, the matching gearbox or clutch, and often a different sump, cooling and exhaust. The gain is 48 hp and 100 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe an engine swap must be inspected and registered.

Can I fit the N62B48 in my X5 30i?

It is a conversion rather than a replacement: the N62B48 is a V8 and your N52B30 an inline-6, so mounts, sump, cooling, exhaust, wiring and the engine control unit all change. The gain is 109 hp and 190 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe an engine swap must be inspected and registered.

Fitting a replacement engine in the X5 30i

1. 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.
2. Reset VANOS adaptations. Clear the VANOS adaptations so the ECU learns the camshaft positions of the new engine.
3. Teach the Valvetronic limit stops. Run the Valvetronic learning routine so the ECU knows the eccentric shaft limits.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.

The full fitting and first-start procedure.

X5 30i engine questions

What is the BMW N52B30 engine?

The BMW N52B30 is a 3.0 liter (2,996 cc) petrol engine from the N52 family. It has an inline 6, DOHC, 24 valve layout with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and makes 190 kW (258 HP) with 310 Nm of torque. BMW built it from 2005 to 2011 and it meets the Euro 4 emission standard.

You find the N52B30 in the BMW E90 330i, BMW E92 330i, BMW E60 530i, BMW E85 Z4 3.0si, BMW E87 130i and BMW E70 X5 3.0si. What we list: BMW N52 naturally aspirated petrol engines for E90, E60 and Z4.

At Autowerke Engines every N52B30 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.

See all N52 Engines · Search N52B30 in the shop

How do I know a used N52B30 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. You can ask for extra photos, a close-up of the code stamp or a short video before you order.

On a petrol engine like the N52B30, 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.

See all N52 Engines · Search N52B30 in the shop

Will the N52B30 engine fit my BMW E70 X5 3.0si?

Yes, if your BMW E70 X5 3.0si was built with the N52B30. BMW used this 3.0 liter (2,996 cc) petrol engine with 190 kW (258 HP) in the E70 X5 3.0si from about 2005 to 2011.

In our records the N52B30 is the engine for the E70 X5 3.0si, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.

Your car has all-wheel drive or is an X model, so the sump, the oil pickup and some brackets can differ from the rear-drive cars. Tell us the full model so we send the right set-up.

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 N52 Engines · Search N52B30 in the shop

Can you check if an N52B30 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 N52B30, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW E90 330i, BMW E92 330i, BMW E60 530i, BMW E85 Z4 3.0si and BMW E87 130i and more.

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.

See all N52 Engines · Search N52B30 in the shop

How much does a used BMW N52B30 engine cost?

A used BMW N52B30 engine in our yard usually costs between 1.800 € and 2.950 €. 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 N52 Engines · Search N52B30 in the shop

Will the N52B30 engine fit my BMW E85 Z4 3.0si?

Yes, if your BMW E85 Z4 3.0si was built with the N52B30. BMW used this 3.0 liter (2,996 cc) petrol engine with 190 kW (258 HP) in the E85 Z4 3.0si from about 2005 to 2011.

In our records the N52B30 is the engine for the E85 Z4 3.0si, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.

Also tell us if your E85 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 N52 Engines · Search N52B30 in the shop

Does a used N52B30 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 N52 Engines · Search N52B30 in the shop

What should I replace when I fit a used N52B30 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.

See all N52 Engines · Search N52B30 in the shop

What is the difference between the N52B30 and other N52 engines?

The N52B30 makes 190 kW (258 HP) and 310 Nm. The other N52 engines are: N52B25 with 160 kW (218 HP) and 250 Nm (2005 to 2011).

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.

See all N52 Engines · Search N52B30 in the shop

What comes with a used N52B30 engine?

Each N52B30 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.

See all N52 Engines · Search N52B30 in the shop

Delivery, warranty and payment

Every X5 30i 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.

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.

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.

All E70 engines · N52 engine guide · Send us your VIN