The definitive BMW engine fitment matrix: every engine code, every model, every chassis. Use this guide to identify your engine, cross-check compatibility, and find the correct replacement for your BMW.
This BMW fitment matrix lists every engine code, its family, and the models it was fitted to. Whether you have an N47, B47, N57, B57, N63, S63, or B58, you'll find the chassis, years, and key characteristics here. Use the VIN decoder or engine label to confirm your code, then cross-reference with the matrix to ensure correct fitment.
If you're unsure, use the BMW VIN decoder or check the engine label on your timing cover.
This comprehensive table lists every BMW engine code, its family, displacement, key models (with chassis codes), production years, and 2025 enquiry volume. All enquiry figures are [EM-VERIFIED] from our proprietary data.
| Engine Code | Family | Displacement | Common Models (Chassis) | Years | 2025 Enquiries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| N47D20C | N-series diesel | 2.0L | 3 Series (E90/F30), 1 Series (E87/F20), 5 Series (E60/F10), X1 (E84), X3 (E83/F25) | 2005–2019 | 1,450 [EM-VERIFIED] |
| B47D20A | B-series diesel | 2.0L | 3 Series (F30/G20), 1 Series (F20/F40), 5 Series (G30), X1 (F48), X3 (G01) | 2014–present | 930 [EM-VERIFIED] |
| N57D30 | N-series diesel | 3.0L | 3 Series (E90/F30), 5 Series (F10), X3 (F25), X5 (E70/F15), 7 Series (F01) | 2008–2018 | 830 [EM-VERIFIED] |
| B57D30 | B-series diesel | 3.0L | 5 Series (G30), 7 Series (G11), X3 (G01), X5 (G05) | 2015–present | 460 [EM-VERIFIED] |
| B58B30 | B-series petrol | 3.0L | 3 Series (G20), 5 Series (G30), 7 Series (G11), X5 (G05), Z4 | 2015–present | 540 [EM-VERIFIED] |
| N63B44 | N-series V8 petrol | 4.4L | 5 Series (F10), 7 Series (F01), X5 (E70/F15), X6 (E71) | 2008–2018 | 440 [EM-VERIFIED] |
| S63B44 | M-series V8 petrol | 4.4L | M5 (F10), M6 (F06), X5M (F85), X6M (F86) | 2011–present | 410 [EM-VERIFIED] |
| M54B30 | M-series petrol (older) | 3.0L | 3 Series (E46), 5 Series (E39), X3 (E83), X5 (E53), Z4 (E85) | 1999–2006 | ~200 [ESTIMATED] |
| N52B30 | N-series petrol | 3.0L | 3 Series (E90/E91/E92), 5 Series (E60/E61), X1 (E84), X3 (E83), X5 (E70) | 2004–2013 | ~200 [ESTIMATED] |
For a complete list of every BMW engine variant and detailed fitment, see the Engine Code Guide or use the Engine Compatibility Checker.
Use these three methods to identify your BMW engine and cross-reference it with the fitment matrix.
Open the bonnet and locate the engine code on the timing cover or a sticker on the cylinder head. The code will be clearly stamped, e.g., N47D20C or B58B30. This is the most direct method.
The 8th character of your BMW's VIN indicates the engine type. Use our BMW VIN decoder to get a full breakdown of your engine code and options.
The V5C logbook includes the engine number, which can be cross-referenced with BMW's engine list. This is a useful backup if the label is damaged.
If you're still unsure, the Engine Compatibility Checker can help match your vehicle details to the correct engine.
Getting the engine code right is critical — especially if you are considering a replacement. Installing the wrong engine variant can lead to:
Always verify the exact engine code against the chassis before buying a used or reconditioned unit. The Engine Compatibility Checker is the fastest way to confirm fitment.
For cost guidance, see our replacement cost by engine code page. And for failure details, visit the N47 timing chain failure page or N63 valve seal failure page.
BMW's engine naming conventions are logical but can be confusing across model years. Here are the most common mistakes:
Both are 2.0-litre diesels, but the N47 is pre-2015 with a rear-mounted timing chain; the B47 is the successor with a front-mounted chain. They are not interchangeable — the ECU, loom, and ancillaries differ.
Compare N47 vs. B47The 3.0-litre diesel family: N57 is older (E60, F10, E70), B57 is modern (G30, G11, G01). The B57 has a front chain and is much more reliable. They do not share mounting points or electrical architecture.
Compare N57 vs. B57Both are 4.4-litre V8s, but the S63 is the M-performance variant (M5, M6, X5M). The S63 has stronger internals, different turbos, and a different ECU map. Fitting an N63 into an M car will not work without major re-engineering.
Compare N63 vs. S63If you're still unsure, use the VIN decoder or contact a vetted BMW specialist for a definitive answer.
The 8th character of the VIN is the engine type code. For example, if it's 'N', you likely have an N-series engine. For a full breakdown, use our BMW VIN decoder.
Not without extensive modification. The ECU, wiring loom, emissions hardware, engine mounts, and even the subframe may differ. It's almost always more cost-effective to replace like-for-like.
Based on our enquiry and failure pattern data, the B58 inline-six petrol is considered the most reliable modern BMW engine. The B47 and B57 are also strong. The N47 and N63 are the most problematic.
Based on our internal quote data [EM-QUOTE], a reconditioned N47D20C supply-only ranges from £3,200 to £5,500, while a B47D20A ranges from £2,800 to £4,500. Fitting costs (R&R labour) are similar at £650–£910 for an independent specialist.
BMW's repair-or-scrap threshold is 70% of the vehicle's market value. If the fitted replacement cost exceeds 70% of what your BMW is worth, it may be financially wiser to scrap or sell the car rather than repair. Use the Repair vs. Replace Calculator to decide.
Yes, these are different power output versions: A = 116d/118d, C = 120d/320d, D = 123d/325d. The block is the same but the turbo, injectors, and ECU map differ. Always match the exact variant.
Getting the engine code right is the single most important step in any BMW engine project. The fitment matrix gives you the full picture – from N47 to B58, from E90 to G20. Use it alongside the VIN decoder and engine knowledge centres to make informed decisions.
If you're replacing an engine, always use a vetted BMW specialist and ensure the replacement is correctly coded to your vehicle's ECU. The 70% repair-to-value threshold should guide your decision – if the fitted cost exceeds 70% of your BMW's market value, consider scrapping or part-exchanging.
Use the Repair vs. Replace CalculatorReady to check your engine or get a quote? Compare prices from vetted BMW specialists.