The BMW M50 engine is one of the brand’s first modern inline-six engines utilizing 21st-century engine technology. Compared to other BMW inline-six engines of the past, like the M20, the M50 was not only technically advanced for the time, but also reliable, capable, and easy to work on. It was also featured in some of the most iconic BMW models from the 90s, including the E36 3-Series and E34 5-Series. As a result, the M50 truly became the blueprint for BMW’s inline-six engines for decades to come, also cementing the formula as BMW’s bread and butter. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the M ..read more

While the N20 is often considered a stout and reliable engine, early versions of the engine have a major flaw with the design of the timing chain guides. The plastic guides are known to disintegrate, allowing excess slack in the timing chain, plastic particles in the oil filter, and excess timing chain wear. The N20 timing chain failure issue can even lead to complete engine failure in some instances. While there is no doubt that timing chain failure is an issue on the N20, it is believed by many BMW enthusiasts, and BMW themselves, that the issue is inflated online. BMW N20 Engine Credit: HLW ..read more

The BMW N63 isn’t an engine known for reliability. At least in the early years of its production. With the introduction of later N63TU, TU2, and TU3 variants, reliability got much better than the pre-technical updated variant. One of the most significant issues with the early N63 engine was fuel injector failure. The Piezoelectric injectors that the N63 used were notoriously troublesome in other BMW engines like the N54 and early N55s as well. To add insult to injury, they are also incredibly expensive to replace. Fuel injector failure was so common on early N63 engines that even BMW had to a ..read more

The 5-Series is one of the most iconic models that BMW has ever released. With a history spanning more than 50 years, the 5-Series is the go-to luxury family-friendly sedan with plenty of performance too. With eight total generations, it can be hard to decide which year 5er is the right one to purchase. That’s why I made this guide. After a lot of research and recounting my own personal 5-Series experience, 2001-2003 (E39), 2008-2010 (E60), 2013-2017 (F10), and 2020-2023 (G30) are the best years available for the BMW 5-Series. While there weren’t any terrible years for the 5er, 2004-2007 and ..read more

In the eyes of many enthusiasts, the E46 represents the pinnacle of the 3-Series formula, and for a good reason. The wide array of solid, reliable engine options, unparalleled chassis dynamics, and timeless looks all culminate to produce one of the best BMW models of all time. However, the E46 isn’t without its issues, with some being more serious than others.  Credit: Douglas McCaffery Some of the E46’s common problems include cracking rear subframes, cooling system problems, DISA valve failure, and rust. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the most common BMW E46 problems in detail, exp ..read more

The BMW M60 engine marked a return to the V8 formula for the Bavarian marque. Prior to the M60, BMW’s most recent V8 offering was carbureted. For the first modern V8 in their catalog, BMW knocked it out of the park with the M60, remaining a popular engine in BMW enthusiast circles to this day. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the M60 V8 and how it stacks up to the V8 engines that BMW produced after it. We’ll also cover general engine specs, design basics, the best performance upgrades, common problems, and everything else that you need to know about the BMW M60 engine.  If you’re inte ..read more

If you’ve ever thought about pulling the trigger on a BMW E46, there’s no doubt that you’ve heard of the infamous ‘subframe cracking’ issue that plagued every model of the E46 from 1999 to 2006. While the issue actually has to do with the E46’s rear axle carrier panel and its inability to withstand the torsional load created by the E46’s subframe and differential, the fact still stands that it is a serious issue that every prospective and current E46 owner needs to know about. In this article, we’ll look at what causes the E46’s subframe issues, discuss some of the most common symptoms, and ta ..read more

It’s no secret that the 3-Series chassis is a fan favorite for budget track car builds. With other 3-Series options climbing in price to a ridiculous degree, the E46 chassis remains one of the most affordable options for someone looking to have some fun on the track. E46s are also well-balanced, produce ample power, and are extremely reliable, making them the perfect track day starter car. Since the National Auto Sport Association’s Spec E46 class is the most respected E46-specific racing series and has set out tried and true guidelines for building a well-rounded E46 track car, I’ll be refere ..read more

Today’s guide will cover a bit of DIY, specifically focused on how to perform an oil change on your M52 or M54-powered E46. Performing an E46 oil change yourself is one of the easiest ways to save money on BMW maintenance, especially when compared to the dealer. While certified BMW repair centers typically charge around $100-$150, you can get the whole job done for around $65-$70 and 30 minutes of your time if you already have some tools lying around. This oil change guide is applicable across the entire North American E46 model range and can pretty much be applied to any BMW fitted with eithe ..read more

It might come as a surprise to some that 2023 was the best year for BMW sales in the U.S., ever. I found that pretty shocking considering all of the…unique styling choices, questionable new model entries, and general lack of enthusiasm from enthusiasts online. But I guess that’s why you don’t buy into everything you read on the forums. According to the numbers, BMW is on top of their game, and I’m starting to see why.  From EVs to likely the last generation of ICE vehicles, BMW’s 2024 lineup is seriously impressive. It’s clear that they have kept their ear firmly to the tire-scorched grou ..read more