M54 vs B58
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
B58
BEST
89/100
+3 points over M54
0
/ 100
BEST
M54
BMW
0
/ 100
BEST
B58
BMW
Specifications
M54
B58
Brand
BMW
BMW
Verdict
BEST
BEST
Reliability
86
89
Years
2000--2006
2015--present
Displacement
2979 cc
2998 cc
Layout
I6
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Turbo
Power
170--231 hp
326--387 hp
Known Issues
6
7
Total Risk Cost
€300--€700
€2,100--€8,050
Character
M54
"The last of the simple BMW straight-sixes: smooth, linear and very long-lived (around 330,000 km with proper care). Nothing on it is known to destroy the engine; the bills are age-related plastics and seals - crankcase ventilation, cooling system, DISA flap, VANOS seals and oil leaks."
B58
"Arguably BMW's best modern petrol: a smooth, strong 3.0 turbo six from the 340i to the Toyota Supra, with no engine-destroying pattern fault. What does go wrong is bolt-on: coolant loss (expansion tank, water pump), the PCV diaphragm in the valve cover (oil smoke) and, on 2018-2022 engines, a plastic part in the oil pump. Forged crankshaft, closed-deck block; strong tuning base."
Issues Comparison
M54 6
● MODERATE
Cooling system plastics — water pump, thermostat, expansion tank
● MODERATE
DISA valve failure (intake manifold flap)
● MODERATE
Double VANOS — solenoid and seal wear
● MODERATE
Crankcase ventilation (CCV) valve and hoses — oil consumption, false air
○ MINOR
Oil leaks — valve cover, oil filter housing and oil pan gaskets
○ MINOR
Camshaft / crankshaft position sensor failure — stalling, rpm hunting
B58 7
▲ HIGH
Oil pump plastic ring cracks — oil pressure loss (2018-2022 engines)
● MODERATE
Coolant loss — expansion tank or cap, electric water pump, low-temperature circuit
● MODERATE
PCV diaphragm in the valve cover and valve cover gasket — oil smoke, oil leaks
○ MINOR
VANOS solenoid wear
○ MINOR
Crankshaft guide bearing wear — early manual F30 340i (service action)
○ MINOR
Oil filter shears off in its housing
○ MINOR
Plastic charge pipe crack