BMW S54 engine

In this dossier

• VersionsEach version, and every model that had it
• Watch out 2 warningsKnown faults and what to check
• OwningMaintenance and what owners say

The story

History: facts, each with its source

The S54 is the high-performance six of the E46 M3. Unlike the M54 its block is cast iron, it redlines at 8,000 rpm, and a scavenging oil pump keeps it fed in hard corners. US and Canadian cars make 333 hp and 262 lb-ft.¹

BMW Tuning says the S54 has aged well, and that most of its flaws are wear rather than design.²

• Displacement: 3.2L (3,246 cc)¹
• Block: Cast iron¹

Sources

1. Wikipedia (M54, with the S54)
2. BMW Tuning (S54 problems)