Hey… did you know that tuning isn’t only about making cars more obnoxious and louder? It’s actually mostly about improving performance, be it power and torque or fuel efficiency. All to gain full confidence when accelerating, overtaking or merging onto a highway, as well as to save fuel under regular driving conditions.

Yep, you read that correctly: by having your BMW engine tuned, you can make it less thirsty. Not only that, with a proper tune, you are also looking at potential increases in reliability.

But how do you go about BMW ECU tuning? Read on to find out the most important aspects of it and see which bimmer engines are good performance improvement candidates.

What Makes a BMW Engine Good for a Tune Up?

There are only a handful of “ingredients” that determine whether or not an engine is right for tuning. That being said, each of them is very important, so if you are considering a BMW tune, take a look at the list below.

1. Aspiration type – turbocharged engines are much more tuneable than naturally aspirated ones, because there are more parameters that can be controlled to affect the performance.
2. Design durability – what you want from a good tuning platform is plenty of OEM reliability. The tune itself will help improve the longevity, but the more robust an engine is from the factory, the more safety margins you’ll have.
3. Engine condition – for tuning, a BMW engine has to be well maintained, according to a regular checkup schedule, along with timely oil and filter changes, and spark plug inspections.

Based on those three aspects, it’s easier to specify which power plants are better suited for tuning than others. So, what are they?

BMW Engines Perfect for Tuning

In the world of various BMW performance upgrades, there are a couple of designs that are definitely tune-worthy. They are characterized by respectable durability margins and reasonable factory power output. Additionally, they are relatively well thought out, at least in most cases.

Let’s dive deeper into the specifics of the abovementioned engines.

BMW B58 Engine Specs and Reliability

The largest of the Bavarians’ modular power plant family, the BMW B58 engine is their latest representative of the inline-six breed introduced in 2015. Depending on the variant and application, it pumps out 322–382 HP and 450–500 Nm of torque. It has forged aluminum piston rods and crankshaft, as well as a closed deck block.

This means the design is very robust from the get-go and it can handle power gains well. It also greatly aids the reliability of the BMW B58 engine, giving it a long-lasting potential, which can be improved even more with appropriate BMW B58 tune… But more on that later.

The BMW B58 engine is used on almost all current production 40i bimmers, including:

• BMW 340i (F30/F31/F34)
• BMW 440i (F32/F33/F36)
• BMW M240i (F22/F23)
• BMW 540i (G30/G31)
• BMW M340i (G20/G21)
• BMW M440i (G22)
• BMW M240i (G42)

BMW B48 Engine Specs and Reliability

Another representative of the modular family, the BMW B48 engine comes in the shape of a more compact four-banger. The Bavarians managed to squeeze out 154–255 HP and 250–400 Nm of torque from it. Thanks to the modularity of the designs, the very same forged piston rods that go into the B58 are also used in B48. In addition, similarly to its bigger brother, the inline-four also has a closed deck aluminum engine block.

Although the B engines are all relatively new, their hefty internal components bode really well for their base longevity. They also make for a solid tuning platform.

In what cars can you find the BMW B48 engine?

• BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, and 5 Series 20i, 30i or 30e models after 2014
• MINI Cooper S (F56)
• Toyota Supra (J29)

BMW B46 Engine Specs and Reliability

Despite the BMW B46 engine being almost identical to the B48, it’s still worth explaining the different numbering. After all, you might’ve already come across this designation. BMW B46 is basically a version of B48 that complies with the American SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) requirements. The changes include distinct air intake, sensors, catalytic converters, and factory tune adjusted to those parts.

From the perspective of BMW ECU tuning or reliability, there are no significant differences between the two. The B46 was installed basically in the same models as B48, only destined for the US market.

BMW B38 Engine Specs and Reliability

The smallest and the first engine of the modular B family, this inline-three was introduced in 2013 along with the BMW i8 hybrid. The two versions it comes in (1.2 and 1.5 L) are available with outputs of 74–228 hp and 150–320 NM of torque.

Although it might seem like a lot of horses out of such a tiny engine, thanks to its durable construction, you still have some room for extra power gains. But, most importantly, engine tuning can help you take some load off of it.

As the lowest-displacement member of the family, B38 engine was meant for the lower trims of BMWs and the budget cars like:

• F20/F21 BMW 118i (2015–2019)
• F30/F31 BMW 318i LCI (2015–2019)
• F40 BMW 118i (2019–present)
• F44 BMW 218i Gran Coupé (2019–present)
• F22/F23 BMW 218i (2015–present)
• F45/F46 BMW 218i Active Tourer/Gran Tourer (2014–present)

BMW N54 Engine Specs and Reliability

Introduced in 2006, the BMW N54 was the Bavarians’ first turbocharged gasoline engine. It took advantage of two turbos to produce 302–335 hp and 400–450 Nm of torque. Similarly to the later B58 engine, it used forged internal components (piston rods and crankshaft), but its engine block was of open deck design.

The BMW N54 engine is able to handle increased boost pressures really well and has a lot of potential for longevity improvements with ECU tuning. Below you’ll find a short list of models that were powered by this power plant:

• BMW 335i (E90/E91/E92/E93)
• BMW 535i (E60/E61)
• BMW 135i (E82/E88)
• BMW X6 xDrive35i (E71)
• BMW Z4 sDrive35i (E89)
• BMW 740i (F01)
• BMW 335is (E92/E93)
• BMW 1 Series M Coupe (E82)
• BMW Z4 sDrive35is (E89)

BMW N55 Engine Specs and Reliability

An evolution of the previous design, the BMW N55 engine was produced from 2009 and gradually replaced the N54 in many applications. It was rated at 302–365 hp and 400–465 Nm of torque, depending on the version. Instead of two turbos, BMW used only one twin-scroll turbocharger, which made the motor lighter than the N54.

Similarly to its predecessor, the BMW N55 engine is quite strong and tolerates power increases well. This means that along with taking a few years off of it, with tuning you’ll be able to gain some extra “juice,” to help you overtake other cars swiftly.

• BMW 535i (F10/F11/F07)
• BMW 335i (E90/E91/E92/E93)
• BMW 135i (E82/E88)
• BMW X3 xDrive35i (F25)
• BMW 335i (E70)
• BMW 335i (F30/F31)
• BMW X6 xDrive 35i (E71)
• BMW X1 xDrive35i (E84)
• BMW 435i (F32/F33/F36)

BMW N20 Engine Specs and Reliability

If you are into Bavarian engines, you might think that the BMW N20 isn’t really suitable for tuning. Although it had its share of problems right after its inception, they have mostly been solved. Moreover, one of the issues that troubled this design was related to high intake air temperatures it experienced. Which is something that can be easily remedied by a proper ECU tune that will lower how hot the engine is running overall.

Introduced in 2011, this turbo inline-four was a replacement for a naturally aspirated straight-six N53 engine. It came in two displacement versions (1.6 and 2.0 L) and produced 168–241 hp and 250–350 Nm of torque.

As a predecessor of the B48, it was installed in a similar range of cars (with the exception of 30i BMW models) until it was replaced by the latter after 2017. Examples of N20-powered vehicles include:

• BMW 220i/228i (F22)
• BMW 320i/328i (F30) 
• BMW 320i/328i GT (F34)      
• BMW 420i/428i (F32) 
• BMW 520i/520Li/525Li/528i (F10)

BMW Engines Good for Tuning – Honorable Mentions

Apart from the power plants described up to this point, there are also other BMW engines that are really well-suited for ECU tuning. They are at the bottom of the list not because of their small potential, but due to the fact that they already are extremely powerful in their stock form.

However, if you wanted to, their durable internal components offer great safety reserves for additional power gains. So, which of these designs are a perfect match for engine tuning?

• BMW S55 – a performance version of the N55 introduced in the BMW M3 (F80), with different variants producing 275–493 hp and up to 600 Nm of torque. Manufactured from 2014 to 2021.
• BMW S63 – the strongest engine currently offered in the Bavarian lineup, this twin-turbo 4.4 L V8 powers the top-of-the-line M cars, like BMW M5 (F90) and M8 (F91/92/93), as well as their Competition variants. Produced from 2009, this power plant makes up to 635 hp and 750 Nm of torque.
• BMW S58 – based on the B58 but heavily revised, this engine debuted in BMW X3 M (F97) and X4 M (F98) in 2019. Currently still in production and used on models like the latest BMW M3 (G80), it pumps out 453–503 hp and 550–650 Nm of torque.

How to Tune a BMW Engine Safely?

There are many variables that have to be taken into account when tuning an engine. If you were to try changing any parameters within your BMW’s ECU, you would be at risk of damaging or even destroying the engine. Because of this, a remote tuning service like Awaken Performance by BimmerTech is your best bet.

During an online coding session, their technician does everything for you: they introduce necessary ECU changes and make your engine work at a lower operating temperature. As a result, it also drinks less gasoline (if you don’t change your driving style), and delivers power more smoothly. All while increasing the longevity of your car.

How to Take Care of a BMW Engine after Tuning?

After you’ve decided to give BMW ECU tuning a go, just don’t neglect the maintenance of your car. Use the best quality fuels (octane rating higher than 93 in US and at least 98 in Europe) and motor oils, and regularly inspect everything. And, most importantly, enjoy your car as if it was brand new, again!

About Post Author

Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post Top 7 BMW Engines for Tuning: How to Tune & Is It Safe? appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

Anyone who enjoys driving always wants to maximize the pleasure that they get from behind the wheel. For plenty of people that means making sure that the performance they achieve from their car is as good as it can possibly be. Sure, for some this includes making some pretty major modifications. But we’re not all experienced home mechanics or can afford to make big changes to our BMWs.

There are, however, some simple ways that we can make them run a little better, accelerate a little faster and create an altogether more exciting driving experience.

Lose a little weight

It sounds obvious, but it’s surprising how many people constantly drive round carrying excess weight in their cars. It might be snow shovels and other equipment stored in the trunk all year round or that set of golf clubs that just seems easier to leave in the car. So only carry the essentials you need for the journey – and some people even recommend only ever having a maximum of half a tank of gas for weight-saving reasons.

Put in some premium synthetic oil

Oil is like the lifeblood of your engine. It performs more functions than you might ever imagine. For example, it doesn’t simply lubricate all of the moving parts of your engine, it also cleans them and even helps to cool down its operating temperature. So, it makes perfect sense to use the highest quality oil you can find, and this is invariably a synthetic kind. It may cost a little more than natural oil, but it’s worth it.

Stiffen up the suspension

There’s a trade-off to be done here. If you want to greatly improve your BMW’s handling and cornering at speed, you’re going to have to settle for a firmer ride. But if that’s something you’re prepared to do then it’s well worth getting the shockers and springs replaced. While you’re about it, it’s also an idea to ask the suspension shop to swap any rubber bushes with polyurethane ones instead. They last longer and add to the firmer control.

Replace your spark plugs and air filter

These are both operations that are easy for the home mechanic to carry out. The principle behind doing this is simple. The stronger the spark igniting the gas, the better the combustion will be, and old spark plugs soon become corroded and less efficient. And, just like humans, engines need plenty of oxygen to perform at their best. Old air filters get clogged up with dust, dirt and other particles which stops a percentage of that oxygen getting through.

Get better tires

Tires are what keep your BMW car in contact with the road. So, fitting the best that you can is obviously going to be a big contributor to how it handles. Choose the right ones for the conditions in your area and the type of driving that you generally do, and you’ll soon feel the benefit. The best can be expensive though. So you might want to look into a good tire payment plan that’s going to help you spread the cost.

Tweak your ECU

Pretty much all the functions of engines these days are controlled by an electronic control unit. By loading different software, you can dramatically change the way that your car performs, you just need a garage that has the equipment to do this. One word of warning – this may well invalidate the warranty from some manufacturers if it subsequently develops an engine fault, even if it’s not been directly caused by the ECU.

It also goes without saying that taking good care and scheduling regular maintenance for your auto is also going to improve its performance. Then you also have the choice of making even more radical changes if you have the money and the inclination.

But, for most drivers, just following these six tips should do the job very well indeed.

About Post Author

Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post 6 Surefire Ways To Pep Up Your Car’s Performance appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

Are you a car enthusiast looking for the best ways to upgrade the speed of your car? As you head to a BMW performance shop for car parts, look to options that add efficiency and durability. By making these factors a priority, your BMW will be able to perform at a high level.

As they say at CarBahn Autoworks, “With the best car parts, your car will gain power and be more mobile.” When you strive for top-quality upgrades, you can customize your car to meet your exact needs.

Today, we’ll discuss some of the best ways you can make your BMW go faster.

Set Up A Large Diameter Throttle Body

One of the best things you can do for your BMW is to set up a large diameter throttle body. A throttle body helps to regulate the airflow going into your car’s engine. The LDTB is a central part of your car since its engine needs air to ignite more efficiently.

When you install an LDTB with large flaps, it allows more air to flow into your engine. With throttle bodies that deliver air at a higher rate, your car will be able to speed up faster.

Before you head to a BMW performance shop, think about making installing an LDTB part of your plans. You’ll stand to be on track to increase the overall performance of your BMW.

Look To Upgrade Your Air Intake System

Air intake systems contain a pipe with an air filter at the end. What this system does is that it allows your car’s engine to bring in more air. BMW engines run on a mixture of air and fuel. These elements allow for your car to breathe easier and run more efficiently.

As you enhance your car’s air intake system, you’ll want to ensure that your engine receives cold air. By helping your car take in more cold air, you can increase its power. With more power comes a faster speed for your BMW.

Work To Upgrade The Fuel System Of Your Car

While at a BMW performance shop, you can complement your car’s air intake system by upgrading its fuel system. Below is a list of high-flow fuel system parts you’ll need to help enhance the performance of your BMW:

• Filters
• Injectors
• Pumps

You’ll also need a sizable gas line to help your car consume more fuel in each cylinder. These parts help provide your BMW with the appropriate air/fuel ratio it needs for a faster speed. With the latest fuel system, you’ll be able to enhance your BMW’s performance.

Look To Upgrade Your Exhaust System

You can also enhance your car’s speed by upgrading its exhaust system. The exhaust system is another prime component that helps determine the overall performance of your BMW.

With a new or aftermarket BMW performance exhaust, you can ease the flow of the exhaust. What this measure does is that it helps reduce the amount of engine restriction. It also frees up some of the power in your car’s engine. With these efforts, your BMW stands to gain a faster speed and reach its potential.

Invest In New Electric Fans For Your Car

Each BMW car has a fan that pulls air through the radiator. It works to keep the engine at a cool and functioning temperature. Some older BMW cars have mechanical fans that draw power away from the engine.

If you have an older BMW model, replacing your old fan with an electric one can help benefit you. A new electric fan will help free up some of your BMW’s horsepower. Taking measures like these can help you gain more speed while on the road.

Tune The ECU System Of Your Car

ECU tuning is a software update that removes factory restraints on a car to improve its performance. Below are two ways you can tune a BMW engine:

Tuning Box

A tuning box works by changing the signal between the software and the fuel injection system. These efforts help increase the amount of fuel injection and enable the engine to boost pressure.

Full Engine Management System

A FEMS can serve you well if you have highly tuned cars or require maximum tunability measures. Here are some ways a FEMS helps boost performance:

• Ensures the right engine fuel amount
• Inspects your engine speed and load
• Provides ignition spark
• Tracks engine temperature

Either measure helps your BMW gain fuel efficiency and speed in the process.

Choose A BMW Performance Shop That Will Enhance The Potential Of Your Car

As you seek parts at a BMW performance shop, look to make productiveness a priority. Like CarBahn Autoworks recommends, “Upgrades that focus on efficiency will help maximize your car’s speed and power.” With the best upgrades, your BMW will perform at a high level.

About Post Author

Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post The Best Ways To Make Your BMW Go Faster appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.