BMW S55 Engine Specs, Reliability, Tuning

The BMW S55 engine has made a lasting impression on the automotive community through its reliability and tunability. The high-performance powerplant, a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six, was specifically developed for BMW’s M3 and M4 models. This was a major shift from the naturally aspirated engines that had long been a hallmark of the M brand. Known for its balance of power, responsiveness, and advanced engineering, the S55 quickly earned a reputation as one of the most potent and versatile engines in the automotive world.

I enjoyed owning two vehicles with the S55 engine: the 2015 BMW M4 Base and the 2018 BMW M4 Competition. Neither vehicle had any issues, nor did any of my friends whose cars had these engines. On the other hand, my 5-series, which had an N55 motor, developed a major oil leak towards the end. The N55 is that the S55 and N55 share the same engine block, but more later.

BMW S55 Engine History

When officially introduced in 2014, the S55 engine was a significant leap for BMW. This period marked a pivotal moment for BMW as it transitioned from the naturally aspirated V8 engine found in the previous generation M3 (E92) to a more modern, turbocharged inline-six configuration.

The decision to develop the S55 was driven by the need to comply with stricter emissions regulations and the growing demand for engines that could deliver high performance and improved fuel efficiency. This transition met these requirements and set a new standard for high-performance automotive engines, particularly motorsport engines.

The S55 engine is a derivative of BMW’s N55 engine, widely praised for its efficiency and performance in non-M models. However, the S55 took the N55’s foundation and elevated it to new heights, incorporating a host of enhancements designed to meet the rigorous demands of M enthusiasts.

These enhancements included a strengthened block, upgraded internals such as forged pistons and connecting rods, and advanced turbocharging technology. The S55 also features an advanced air-to-water intercooler system and twin-scroll turbochargers, all contributing to the S55’s remarkable performance characteristics.

Technical Specifications

The BMW S55 engine is built around an inline-six-cylinder layout, a configuration that BMW has long favored for its smooth power delivery and inherent balance. This engine architecture provides a compact design that is both lightweight and capable of delivering high performance, which is crucial for maintaining the dynamic handling characteristics that BMW M cars are known for.

Central to the S55’s design is its turbocharged configuration, featuring a twin-turbo setup that significantly enhances the engine’s power output and efficiency. Using two turbochargers allows for quicker response times, reducing turbo lag and providing a more immediate power delivery across the rev range. The engine’s displacement is 3.0 liters, which strikes an ideal balance between performance and efficiency, enabling the S55 to produce substantial power while maintaining reasonable fuel consumption.

1. Performance Figures

The BMW S55 engine is renowned for its impressive performance figures, which place it among the top performers in its class. Depending on the model and variant, the S55 engine produces a power output ranging from 425 horsepower in the standard versions to 503 in the most potent variants, such as those in the BMW M4 GTS and M4 CS, leaving enthusiasts in awe of its capabilities.

Torque delivery is equally impressive, with the S55 generating between 406 lb-ft and 442 lb-ft of torque. This robust torque output ensures strong acceleration and the ability to sustain high speeds easily. The engine’s redline is set at a maximum of 7,600 RPM, allowing for a broad and usable powerband that provides exhilarating performance at low and high engine speeds.

Internal Components and Materials

The S55 engine features several high-performance internal components that contribute to its durability and ability to withstand the rigors of high-output operation. One key component is the lightweight crankshaft, which reduces rotational mass and improves the engine’s responsiveness.

Additionally, the engine is equipped with forged pistons and connecting rods, which offer greater strength and resilience under the high pressures and temperatures experienced during performance driving. These forged components are essential for maintaining reliability and performance over time.

An advanced air-to-water intercooler system manages cooling, helping maintain optimal intake air temperatures, enhancing performance, and preventing heat soaking during extended periods of hard driving. The S55 also utilizes twin-scroll turbochargers designed to optimize exhaust gas flow, reduce turbo lag, and improve overall efficiency. The twin-scroll design allows the engine to build boost pressure faster, resulting in better throttle response and increased power output across the rev range.

The BMW S55 engine has various advanced technologies that enhance its performance, efficiency, and drivability. Among these is BMW’s Valvetronic system, which provides fully variable valve timing. This technology allows the engine to adjust the valve lift and timing continuously, optimizing power delivery and fuel efficiency under different driving conditions.

In conjunction with Valvetronic, the S55 also features BMW’s Double-VANOS system, allowing variable camshaft timing. This system further refines the engine’s responsiveness and efficiency by adjusting the timing of the intake and exhaust valves based on engine load and speed.

Fuel delivery is managed by a high-precision direct fuel injection system, which ensures optimal fuel atomization and combustion. This system contributes to the engine’s high power output and efficiency by delivering fuel directly into the combustion chambers at high pressure, allowing for more precise control over the combustion process.

These advanced technologies work together to make the S55 engine a benchmark in high-performance engines, offering a rare power, efficiency, and reliability combination.

BMW M Models Equipped with the S55 Engine

The BMW S55 engine is prominently featured in several high-performance M models, each known for delivering a thrilling driving experience. Below are the key BMW M models that were equipped with the S55 engine:

• BMW M3 (F80): The F80 M3 marked a significant shift in BMW’s M3 lineage by adopting the S55 engine, moving away from its predecessor’s naturally aspirated V8. The S55 engine endowed the M3 with a potent mix of power, precision, and efficiency, making it a standout in the sports sedan segment. The F80 M3 is renowned for balancing track-ready performance and everyday usability.
• BMW M4 (F82/F83): The M4, available as both a coupe (F82) and convertible (F83), was the first BMW model to debut with the S55 engine. The M4 utilized the engine’s impressive power and torque to deliver exhilarating performance characterized by sharp handling and rapid acceleration. The F82/F83 M4 became a flagship model for BMW’s M division, embodying the brand’s commitment to driving excellence.
• BMW M2 Competition (F87): Introducing the S55 engine to the M2 Competition transformed this compact sports coupe into a true performance machine. The F87 M2 Competition, equipped with the same powerplant as the M3 and M4, offered an agile and engaging driving experience, making it one of the most celebrated models in BMW’s lineup. The S55 engine’s power and torque, combined with the M2’s compact size and agile handling, made the M2 Competition a favorite among automotive enthusiasts and a strong contender in the high-performance compact sports coupe segment.
• BMW M2 CS: The M2 CS represents the pinnacle of the M2 series, combining the raw power of the S55 engine with enhanced aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and refined handling dynamics. It is a limited-edition model that showcases BMW’s engineering prowess, delivering a driving experience that’s both thrilling and precise.

Special Editions and Variants

Beyond the standard M models, the S55 engine also powered several special editions and variants, each designed to push the boundaries of performance:

• M4 GTS: The M4 GTS is a track-focused variant of the M4, featuring a water injection system that boosts the S55 engine’s output to 493 horsepower. This limited-edition model also extensively uses lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber, and has a stripped-down interior to reduce weight, making it a formidable performer on the racetrack.
• M4 CS: Positioned between the standard M4 and the M4 GTS, the M4 CS offers a perfect blend of everyday usability and track-ready performance. With an upgraded version of the S55 engine producing 454 horsepower, the M4 CS delivers enhanced acceleration and handling, making it a highly sought-after variant.
• M4 DTM Champion Edition: Celebrating BMW’s success in the DTM racing series, the M4 DTM Champion Edition is a highly exclusive model that shares many of the performance enhancements found in the M4 GTS. The S55 engine in this edition is tuned to deliver the same 493 horsepower as the GTS, and the car is equipped with race-inspired features, including a roll cage and carbon-ceramic brakes.

Comparison to the N55 Engine

The S55 engine is often compared to its predecessor, the N55 engine, as both share the same 3.0-liter inline-six layout and turbocharged design. However, several key differences set the S55 apart:

• Performance Differences: The S55 engine features a twin-turbo setup, compared to the N55’s single twin-scroll turbocharger. This allows the S55 to produce significantly more power and torque, with output ranging from 425 to 503 horsepower, whereas the N55 typically produces around 300 horsepower in its most powerful configurations.
• Design Enhancements: The S55 engine was designed with a stronger block, forged internals, and a more advanced cooling system, allowing it to handle higher boost pressures and deliver sustained performance under extreme conditions. Additionally, the S55 incorporates a lightweight crankshaft and a dual-injection system (port and direct injection), which were not present in the N55.
• Technological Advancements: The S55 engine benefits from BMW’s latest technologies, such as the Valvetronic variable valve timing system and the Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. These technologies help improve the engine’s responsiveness, efficiency, and overall performance compared to the N55.

Overall, the S55 represents a significant evolution from the N55. It delivers higher performance, greater reliability, and more advanced technology, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of BMW’s modern M lineup.

The BMW S55 engine, in its factory configuration, delivers an exhilarating driving experience that perfectly aligns with the M division’s reputation for performance excellence. Straight from the factory, the S55 engine produces between 425 and 503 horsepower, depending on the model and variant. This power is coupled with a torque output ranging from 406 lb-ft to 442 lb-ft, providing robust acceleration and a wide powerband that makes the engine highly responsive at various speeds.

The acceleration characteristics of the S55-powered models are particularly impressive, with the BMW M3 and M4 capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in just around 4 seconds or less. The twin-turbo setup ensures minimal turbo lag, allowing for quick throttle response and linear power delivery, making the driving experience thrilling and predictable.

Regarding handling, the S55 engine’s lightweight design contributes to the vehicle’s balanced weight distribution, enhancing agility and cornering precision. The power, torque, and sophisticated suspension tuning combination ensure that the S55-equipped models provide a dynamic and engaging driving experience on the road or the track.

1. Aftermarket Tuning

The S55 engine’s robust design and advanced technology make it a popular choice among tuning enthusiasts looking to extract even more performance from their vehicles. There are several popular tuning options and performance upgrades available for the S55, each offering different levels of power gains and driving characteristics:

• ECU Tuning: One of the most common and effective modifications is ECU tuning, which involves reprogramming the engine control unit to optimize the engine’s performance. By adjusting parameters such as boost pressure, fuel delivery, and ignition timing, tuners can significantly increase the engine’s power output. It’s common to see power gains of 50 to 100 horsepower with a well-executed ECU tune.
• Upgraded Turbos: For those seeking even more power, upgrading the factory twin-turbochargers to larger or more efficient units can provide substantial gains. Aftermarket turbo kits for the S55 can push power levels well beyond 600 horsepower, though such modifications often require supporting upgrades to the fuel system, cooling system, and exhaust.
• Common Performance Upgrades: Other popular upgrades include high-flow exhaust systems, which reduce backpressure and enhance the engine’s sound, and performance intakes, which increase airflow to the engine. These modifications boost power and improve throttle response and overall engine efficiency.

While tuning the S55 engine can yield impressive performance gains, it’s important to consider potential reliability concerns. Higher power levels place additional stress on engine components, particularly the cooling system and crankshaft, which may require reinforcement to maintain long-term reliability.

1. Reliability and Known Issues

Despite its high-performance pedigree, the S55 engine is generally regarded as reliable, particularly when properly maintained. However, like any high-performance engine, the S55 has its issues. Some of the most commonly reported problems include:

• Crank Hub Failures: One of the most significant concerns with the S55 engine is the potential for crank hub failures. The crank hub is responsible for timing the engine’s valvetrain, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage if it fails. This issue has led many owners to invest in aftermarket crank hub solutions that reinforce the component and reduce the risk of failure.
• Cooling System Challenges: Given the S55’s high power output, the engine generates significant heat, which can strain the cooling system. Some owners have reported issues with the water pump or intercooler, particularly when the engine is tuned for higher performance. Upgrading the cooling system, including the intercooler and radiator, can help mitigate these risks.
• Longevity and Durability: Overall, the S55 engine is built to withstand the demands of high-performance driving. However, its longevity is closely tied to how well it is maintained. Regular oil changes using high-quality synthetic oil ensure the engine’s longevity. Additionally, it’s important to monitor the condition of the turbos and other critical components, especially if the engine has been tuned.
• Maintenance Tips and Best Practices: To maintain the reliability and performance of the S55 engine, owners should adhere to BMW’s recommended maintenance schedule, which includes regular oil changes, inspection of the cooling system, and timely replacement of worn items like spark plugs and filters. Frequent maintenance may be necessary to ensure that tuned engines remain in optimal condition.

By understanding the stock performance, potential for tuning, and common issues associated with the S55 engine, enthusiasts can make informed decisions about maximizing their enjoyment of this powerful and versatile powerplant.

Motorsport Heritage

The BMW S55 engine has proven its worth on the road and established a formidable presence in competitive motorsport. One of the most notable applications of the S55 engine is in the BMW M4 DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters), where it powered BMW’s factory race cars in one of the world’s most prestigious touring car championships.

• Overview of Motorsport Applications:
  • The BMW M4 DTM, equipped with a highly tuned version of the S55 engine, competed in the DTM series from 2014 to 2020. The S55 was modified extensively to meet racing demands, including enhancements for durability, power output, and efficiency.
  • Beyond DTM, the S55 engine also saw action in various GT and endurance racing series. Privateer teams and customer racing programs utilized S55-powered vehicles in competitions such as the VLN series at the Nürburgring and the 24 Hours of Spa.
• Success in Racing and Motorsport Achievements:
  • The BMW M4 DTM, driven by some of the world’s top racing talents, achieved significant success in the DTM series. In 2014, BMW clinched the DTM Constructors’ Championship, demonstrating the S55 engine’s competitiveness and reliability under the most demanding conditions.
  • The engine’s robust performance in endurance racing, particularly in long-distance events like the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, further cemented its reputation. The S55-powered cars consistently delivered strong performances, often finishing at or near the top of their classes.

Influence on BMW’s Motorsport Legacy

The S55 engine has been pivotal in enhancing BMW’s already illustrious motorsport legacy. Its performance on the track added to BMW’s tally of victories and influenced the development of future BMW engines and technologies.

• Contribution to BMW’s Reputation in Motorsport:
  • BMW has long been associated with excellence in motorsport, and the S55 engine has contributed to this reputation by powering cars that achieved significant success in high-profile racing series. The engine’s balance of power, reliability, and adaptability made it a favorite among drivers and engineers alike, further solidifying BMW’s standing as a leader in motorsport engineering.
  • The success of S55-powered cars in DTM and other racing series underscored BMW’s commitment to engineering vehicles that could compete and win at the highest levels. This success also helped to market BMW’s M division, enhancing the brand’s appeal among enthusiasts and consumers who associate BMW with cutting-edge performance.
• Technologies Developed from Racing Experience:
  • The rigorous demands of motorsport provided BMW engineers with invaluable data and experience that directly influenced the development of production engines. Lessons learned from the S55’s racing performance, such as thermal management, material stress limits, and the optimization of turbocharging systems, were applied to improve the engine’s design and functionality in road-going models.
  • Innovations in engine cooling, turbocharger durability, and software management systems were often developed or refined in the crucible of racing. Initially proven on the track, these technologies trickled down to enhance the performance and reliability of BMW’s consumer vehicles.
  • The S55 engine’s racing pedigree also influenced the development of its successor, the S58 engine, which powers the latest generation of BMW M cars. The S58 incorporates many technological advancements and lessons learned from the S55’s motorsport endeavors, ensuring that BMW’s M cars remain at the forefront of high-performance automotive engineering.

In conclusion, the S55 engine profoundly impacts BMW’s motorsport legacy. It powered some of BMW’s most successful race cars and contributed to developing cutting-edge technologies that define the brand’s engineering excellence. The S55’s motorsport heritage is a testament to BMW’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance, both on the track and on the road.

S55 Engine in the Context of BMW’s Evolution

While the BMW S55 engine was a remarkable piece of engineering in its own right, it eventually passed the torch to its successor, the S58 engine. The S58 was introduced in 2019 and is currently found in the latest generation of BMW M cars, such as the G80 M3, G82 M4, and the X3 M and X4 M models. This new engine builds upon the foundations laid by the S55, incorporating a range of enhancements that push performance and efficiency to even greater heights.

• Overview of the S58 Engine as the Successor:
  • The S58 engine is a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six, similar in layout to the S55 but featuring numerous technological and engineering advancements. It represents the next step in BMW’s evolution of high-performance engines, designed to meet increasingly stringent emissions standards while delivering even more power and torque.
• Key Improvements and Differences from the S55:
  • Increased Power Output: The S58 engine offers a significant performance boost over the S55, with power outputs ranging from 473 horsepower in standard versions to 503 horsepower in the Competition models. This increase is achieved through enhanced turbocharging, more efficient airflow, and improved engine management systems.
  • Revised Turbocharger Setup: While the S55 utilized twin-scroll turbochargers, the S58 features larger turbos with an improved compressor design. This allows for higher boost pressures and better efficiency, resulting in a more responsive engine with reduced turbo lag and a broader powerband.
  • Improved Cooling and Oil Systems: The S58 engine benefits from an upgraded cooling system, including a more efficient intercooler and additional oil coolers, which help maintain optimal performance during prolonged high-speed driving or track use.
  • Enhanced Structural Integrity: The S58 engine’s block is reinforced with a closed-deck design, offering greater strength and rigidity than the S55’s open-deck construction. This improvement allows the engine to withstand higher pressures and stresses, making it more durable under extreme conditions.
  • Emissions and Efficiency: The S58 also incorporates the latest emissions technologies, including a particulate filter and improved catalytic converters, which help the engine meet the latest Euro 6d emissions standards. Despite its increased power, the S58 is more fuel-efficient and cleaner than the S55.

Legacy and Influence on Future BMW Engines

The S55 engine occupies a significant place in the history of BMW’s M division, not only for its achievements during its production run but also for its lasting impact on the design and development of future BMW engines.

• How the S55 Shaped the Design and Development of Future BMW Engines:
  • The S55 engine served as a critical learning platform for BMW’s engineers, providing insights into turbocharging, cooling, and materials that would influence the design of future engines. Its success demonstrated the viability of high-output turbocharged engines in maintaining the performance heritage of the M division, even as regulations and consumer demands shifted toward more efficient and environmentally friendly powertrains.
  • The experience gained from optimizing the S55 for road and track use helped BMW refine its approach to engine development, leading to more robust and versatile designs in subsequent engines. The focus on balancing power, reliability, and efficiency in the S55 directly informed the design principles used in the S58 and other future engines.
• Its Place in the History of BMW M Engines:
  • The S55 is regarded as a pivotal engine in BMW M’s history. It marked a significant shift from the naturally aspirated engines that had defined previous M models, embracing turbocharging without compromising the driving dynamics and performance that M cars are known for. This transition was crucial in ensuring that BMW M cars remained competitive in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
  • The S55’s success across multiple models and special editions, including the M3, M4, and M2 Competition, cemented its legacy as one of BMW’s most versatile and celebrated engines. Its influence can be seen in the continued use of inline-six turbocharged engines in BMW’s M lineup, a configuration that has become synonymous with the brand’s performance vehicles.
  • Beyond its technical achievements, the S55 also played a key role in maintaining and enhancing the M division’s reputation for engineering excellence. The engine’s power, responsiveness, and adaptability combination ensured that BMW M cars remained at the forefront of the high-performance segment, appealing to driving enthusiasts worldwide.

In conclusion, the S55 engine’s legacy is one of innovation and adaptation, ensuring that BMW’s M division thrives in an era of changing technologies and regulations. Its influence on the design and development of future BMW engines, particularly the S58, underscores its importance in the ongoing evolution of BMW’s high-performance powertrains. As such, the S55 will always be remembered as a cornerstone of BMW’s engineering prowess and a defining element of the brand’s modern identity.

BMW S55 Engine: Bottom Line

The BMW S55 engine stands out as a landmark in the evolution of BMW’s M division, combining cutting-edge technology with the brand’s renowned engineering precision. Introduced in 2014, the S55 brought turbocharging to BMW M’s high-performance inline-six engines, delivering an impressive blend of power, torque, and efficiency. With 425 to 503 horsepower outputs, the S55 powered some of BMW’s most iconic models, including the M3, M4, and M2 Competition, each becoming benchmarks in their respective segments.

Key features such as the twin-turbo setup, advanced cooling systems, and technologies like Valvetronic and Double-VANOS contributed to the S55’s reputation as a powerful yet reliable engine capable of delivering thrilling performance both on the road and on the track. Its versatility and adaptability were further demonstrated through its use in special editions like the M4 GTS and M4 CS, showcasing the engine’s potential when pushed to its limits.

1. Final Thoughts

The S55 engine’s impact on driving enthusiasts and the broader automotive industry is profound. For many, it represented the perfect balance between raw power and everyday usability, offering a driving experience that was both exhilarating and accessible. The introduction of the S55 marked a turning point for BMW, proving that turbocharged engines could meet and exceed the performance expectations set by their naturally aspirated predecessors.

As part of BMW M cars’ legacy, the S55 holds a special place, bridging the gap between the brand’s storied past and its innovative future. Its influence is evident in the development of the S58 engine, which builds on the S55’s foundations to push the boundaries of performance even further. The S55 will be remembered as an engine and a symbol of BMW’s commitment to driving pleasure, engineering excellence, and the relentless pursuit of automotive perfection.

For enthusiasts and collectors alike, the S55-powered BMWs will remain cherished icons. They embody the spirit of driving that has made BMW M a legend in the automotive world.