The BMW S55 engine is a true powerhouse that has set the bar for high-performance engines in the automotive industry. With its twin-turbocharged technology, advanced valvetronic system, and double VANOS, the S55 is a force to be reckoned with on the road. But like all great things, it has its flaws. From crank hub failures to cooling system issues, the S55 engine is not without its weaknesses. So, buckle up and get ready for a thrilling ride as we explore the origins, strengths, weaknesses, and special features of the BMW S55 engine.
The BMW S55 is a high-performance engine that was introduced in 2014 and is used in a variety of BMW models, including the M3 and M4. It is a direct successor to the BMW S65 engine, which was used in the previous generation M3 and was known for its high-revving characteristics and impressive performance.
B. Brief history of the engine The development of the S55 engine began in the mid-2000s, with the goal of creating an engine that would offer even better performance than the previous generation S65 engine, while also meeting increasingly stringent emissions regulations. The S55 engine was finally introduced in 2014, and it quickly gained a reputation as one of the best high-performance engines on the market.
C. Overview of the article This article will provide an in-depth look at the BMW S55 engine, including its origins, strengths, weaknesses, and special features. We will discuss the technology behind the engine, its performance capabilities, and its fuel efficiency. We will also examine some of the common issues that can arise with the engine, such as cooling system problems, crank hub failure, and carbon buildup. Finally, we will take a look at some of the unique features of the engine, including its water injection system, lightweight construction, and high-precision fuel injection system.
II. Origins
A. BMW N55 engine
- The BMW N55 engine was introduced in 2009 and was used in a variety of BMW models, including the 135i, 335i, and 535i. It was a direct successor to the BMW N54 engine and featured a single twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, and Valvetronic variable valve lift.
- Evolution to the S55 The S55 engine is based on the N55 engine, but it has been extensively modified to provide even better performance. The S55 features two twin-scroll turbochargers, a revised Valvetronic system, and a high-precision fuel injection system. These modifications help to increase power output and improve throttle response.
B. Technology behind the S55 engine
- Twin-turbocharging The S55 engine features two twin-scroll turbochargers, which work together to provide instant power delivery and high levels of boost. The use of twin-turbocharging helps to eliminate turbo lag and provides a smooth and linear power delivery.
- Valvetronic The S55 engine also features a revised Valvetronic system, which allows for variable valve lift and timing. This technology helps to improve engine efficiency and performance, while also reducing emissions.
- Double VANOS The S55 engine also features a double VANOS system, which allows for variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. This technology helps to improve torque and power throughout the entire rev range.
III. Strengths
A. High power output The BMW S55 engine is known for its impressive power output, which ranges from 425 to 500 horsepower depending on the specific application. This power output is achieved through the use of advanced turbocharging and fuel injection technology.
B. Linear power delivery The S55 engine is also known for its smooth and linear power delivery, which provides instant throttle response and a thrilling driving experience.
C. Performance capabilities The S55 engine is capable of propelling the BMW M3 and M4 from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, making it one of the fastest engines on the market. It is also capable of reaching top speeds of over 155 mph.
D. Fuel efficiency Despite its high power output, the S55 engine is also relatively fuel-efficient, thanks to its advanced
The S55 engine is designed to deliver a high level of performance while also being fuel-efficient. However, like any engine, it has its weaknesses that need to be addressed. In this article, we will discuss the weak points of the BMW S55 engine, as well as its special features.
IV. Weak Points
A. Cooling System The cooling system in the BMW S55 engine is one of its weak points. The S55 engine generates a lot of heat, and if the cooling system is not properly maintained, it can cause serious damage to the engine. One of the most common issues with the cooling system is the failure of the electric water pump. This failure can lead to overheating and potentially catastrophic engine failure. The water pump is responsible for circulating the coolant throughout the engine and keeping the engine at the correct operating temperature. If the water pump fails, the coolant will not circulate, and the engine will overheat.
Causes of issues: The main cause of the electric water pump failure is the use of a plastic impeller. Over time, the plastic impeller can crack and break, which can cause the water pump to fail. Additionally, the cooling system can become contaminated with debris, which can cause blockages in the cooling system and lead to overheating.
Solutions: The best way to avoid issues with the cooling system is to perform regular maintenance. This includes replacing the water pump and thermostat every 60,000 miles or so. Additionally, it is important to use high-quality coolant and keep the cooling system clean and free of debris.
B. Crank Hub Failure Another common issue with the BMW S55 engine is crank hub failure. The crank hub is responsible for connecting the crankshaft to the camshaft, and if it fails, it can cause serious damage to the engine. The S55 engine uses a pressed-on crank hub, which means that the hub is not bolted on, but rather pressed onto the end of the crankshaft. This design can be problematic, as the hub can fail and cause the timing chain to slip.
Causes of issues: The main cause of crank hub failure is the design of the hub itself. The pressed-on design can lead to the hub coming loose and eventually failing. Additionally, high levels of stress on the engine can exacerbate the problem.
Solutions: One solution to crank hub failure is to use a bolt-on hub, which is more secure than the pressed-on hub. Additionally, it is important to perform regular maintenance on the engine to ensure that it is not under too much stress.
C. Carbon Buildup Carbon buildup is a common issue with direct-injection engines like the BMW S55. Direct injection can cause carbon buildup on the intake valves, which can lead to decreased performance and potentially serious engine damage.
Causes of issues: Carbon buildup is caused by the direct injection of fuel into the engine. The fuel does not pass over the intake valves, which can lead to carbon buildup over time. Additionally, short trips and stop-and-go driving can exacerbate the problem.
Solutions: To prevent carbon buildup, it is important to perform regular maintenance on the engine. This includes using high-quality fuel and oil, performing regular oil changes, and using fuel additives that can help keep the intake valves clean.
V. Special Features
The BMW S55 engine is not just about power and performance, but also includes a number of special features that contribute to its unique character. Here we’ll take a closer look at the water injection system, lightweight construction, and high-precision fuel injection system.
A. Water Injection System
- Description of System The water injection system is a special feature included in the BMW M4 GTS, which is powered by the S55 engine. This system injects a fine mist of water into the intake manifold under heavy load and high engine temperatures. The water evaporates, reducing the temperature of the air/fuel mixture and allowing for higher boost pressures without detonation.
- Advantages The main advantage of the water injection system is increased power output. By reducing the temperature of the air/fuel mixture, the engine can run at a higher boost pressure, which means more power. The system also reduces the risk of detonation, which can cause engine damage.
- Limitations The main limitation of the water injection system is that it requires a separate tank for water, which must be refilled periodically. This adds weight to the car and can be an inconvenience for the owner. The system also requires additional plumbing and electronic controls, which can increase the complexity of the engine.
B. Lightweight Construction
- Description of Construction The S55 engine is built with lightweight materials to reduce weight and increase performance. The engine block is made of a lightweight aluminum alloy, and the cylinder head is made of a magnesium alloy. The oil sump is also made of a lightweight material to further reduce weight.
- Advantages The main advantage of the lightweight construction is improved performance. A lighter engine means less weight for the car to carry, which can improve acceleration, handling, and fuel efficiency. The lightweight construction also reduces the weight over the front wheels, which can improve the car’s balance and handling.
- Limitations The main limitation of the lightweight construction is increased cost. The materials used in the construction are more expensive than traditional materials, which can increase the cost of the engine. The lightweight construction also requires careful engineering to ensure the engine is strong enough to withstand the stresses of high performance.
C. High-Precision Fuel Injection System
- Description of System The S55 engine is equipped with a high-precision fuel injection system that uses solenoid injectors instead of traditional mechanical injectors. The system can inject fuel at very precise intervals and in very precise quantities, which improves engine performance and fuel efficiency.
- Advantages The main advantage of the high-precision fuel injection system is improved performance and fuel efficiency. The system can inject fuel more precisely than traditional systems, which improves combustion and reduces emissions. The system also allows for more precise control over the engine, which can improve throttle response and drivability.
- Limitations The main limitation of the high-precision fuel injection system is cost. The system is more expensive than traditional systems, which can increase the cost of the engine. The system also requires careful tuning to ensure optimal performance, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
VI. Conclusion
A. Summary of strengths and weaknesses
The BMW S55 engine is a high-performance powerplant that has many strengths, but also a few weaknesses that owners should be aware of. The engine’s strengths include its high power output, linear power delivery, performance capabilities, and fuel efficiency. On the other hand, its weaknesses include the cooling system, crank hub failure, and carbon buildup.
The cooling system has been known to have issues with overheating and coolant leaks, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. Crank hub failure is another common problem that can cause catastrophic engine failure if not fixed. Carbon buildup is also an issue, which can cause poor engine performance and increased fuel consumption.
B. Significance of the BMW S55 engine in the automotive industry
The BMW S55 engine is a significant achievement in the automotive industry, representing the pinnacle of BMW’s engineering and design capabilities. It has set new standards in performance and efficiency, and has been praised by critics and enthusiasts alike for its impressive power output and smooth power delivery.
The S55 engine has also been used in a number of high-performance BMW models, including the M3, M4, and M2 Competition, cementing its reputation as one of the best performance engines on the market today.
C. Future of the S55 engine
Despite its strengths and weaknesses, the BMW S55 engine is expected to remain a popular choice among high-performance car enthusiasts for years to come. While BMW has recently introduced a new engine for its M3 and M4 models, the S58 engine, the S55 engine is still used in other models and has a strong following.
As with any high-performance engine, it is important to keep up with maintenance and address any issues promptly to ensure the longevity of the engine. However, with proper care and attention, the BMW S55 engine can provide a thrilling driving experience and continue to be a top choice for performance car enthusiasts.
