BMW N54/N55 Engine: Clogged or Leaky Fuel Injector Issues

BMW Supertech Auto Repair North Vancouver Steering WheelBMW owners are probably aware that their N54 and N55 engines have been designed to provide optimal performance. BMW vehicles are a blend of high-performance and eye-catching design. Your BMW does not have a run-of-the-mill engine, as a result, it takes highly qualified experts, like the Red Seal Certified mechanics at Supertech Auto Repair North Vancouver, to repair BMW engine problems and keep them operating as they did when you first purchased your vehicle. If your BMW engine is well-maintained and serviced, when there is an engine issue, you’ll most likely notice a drop in performance. You may notice that your engine may stall, produce strange odours, or an increase in fuel consumption. These could be symptoms of a problematic BMW fuel injector which could result in possible engine failure if you do not deal with them properly. 

Your BMW Fuel Injector

Basically, your BMW fuel injector sprays the spark plugs and ignition coils with gasoline to ignite on start-up and every revolution that follows. Consequently, when it’s clogged or experiencing leaks, your car won’t start easily or even drive. Therefore, it is imperative that your fuel injector is always in optimal condition. What’s more, if you have fuel injector issues like an internal leak and ignore the warning signs, you could experience costly engine failure or even an engine fire.

Possible BMW Fuel Injector Issues

A Clogged Fuel Injector

An avoidable result of BMW N54/N55 ignitions is carbon builds up inside the engine. Normally, the carbon is burned off when the engine is running and heated up to high temperatures. However, as the engine begins to cool down, the carbon is not burned off and starts to accumulate inside the engine and the injectors. Consequently, the injectors get clogged and are unable to work properly, resulting in inefficient fuel spray patterns. An improper spray pattern may cause the spark plugs to either get soaked with fuel too much or not enough. The result of this issue will be misfires and cold-start-ups.

A Leaky Fuel Injector

Leaky fuel injectors are the result of the way BMW has positioned them. When they begin to leak the spark plugs can become extremely wet which makes their ignition more difficult when we attempt to start the engine. This issue can also cause misfires on startup and even while driving.

Possible Solutions for Your Fuel Injectors

To reduce the possibility of experiencing these problems you can install high-quality aftermarket oil catch cans that will help reduce carbon buildup. Also, you can use fuel cleaners to help release the carbon build-up in your engine and fuel injectors, and create better running conditions. However, the most effective way to remove carbon build-up is walnut blasting. Walnut blasting, should be performed every 50,000 kms.

To reduce carbon build-up and clean your fuel injectors you can also warm up the engine at low speeds, and then go for a ride on the highway where you maintain the RPMs at 4500 for about 20 minutes three or four times.

Additionally, the BMW N54 fuel injectors are under warranty for 10 years or 190,000 kms since BMW recognizes that this part has issues. Consequently, if your fuel injectors are leaking, you can replace them.

What Does Index Mean For BMW Injectors

  1. Evolution of Injector Design: BMW has updated the design of their fuel injectors over time to improve performance and address issues in earlier versions. Each new version is assigned a new index number. For example, an injector with index 12 would be a newer design than one with index 11.
  2. Compatibility and Replacement: The index number is crucial when replacing injectors. It’s generally recommended to use injectors with the same index number as the original ones in your engine. However, in some cases, newer index injectors can be backward compatible with older versions.
  3. Performance and Efficiency: Higher index numbers often reflect improvements in fuel delivery accuracy, spray pattern, and overall efficiency. These improvements can lead to smoother engine performance, better fuel economy, and reduced emissions.
  4. Identification and Authenticity: The index number helps identify genuine BMW parts. This is particularly important as there are many aftermarket options available which might not meet the same standards.

If you’re looking to replace BMW fuel injectors, it’s important to know the index number of the injectors currently in your vehicle. You should consult with a BMW specialist or reference your vehicle’s specific documentation to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. Remember that mixing injectors of different indexes in the same engine is generally not recommended due to potential variances in fuel delivery and spray patterns.

Major Updates on BMW’s Fuel Injectors:

Back in 2016, BMW introduced a notable change in their fuel injector lineup. This change was particularly targeted at the S63 V8 engines found in models like the E70 X5M and E71 X6M. However, this new injector, bearing the part number #13538648937, wasn’t initially listed in the standard ETK BMW catalog.

Clarifying the Confusion: #13538648937 vs. #13538616079:

There has been some confusion in the BMW community regarding the injectors #13538648937 and #13538616079. Both belong to the Index 12 category. Despite having different part numbers, they essentially serve the same function. The distinction came down to a material upgrade initially exclusive to the #937 model, which included enhancements like an internal filter and better thermal compensation. This upgrade was later incorporated into the #079 model as well (Source – FCP EURO).

Cost Implications and Usage:

One of the most significant differences between these injectors is their cost. The newer #937 injector emerged as a more budget-friendly option,offering the same enhancements and performance quality as the #079 but at a reduced price.

Broad Compatibility Across BMW Models:

Despite the original TSB targeting S63 V8 engines, the #937 injector’s compatibility extends across all BMW models requiring Index 12 injectors. This includes those with N54 and N63 engines, positioning the #937 as a versatile and potentially more favorable option.

List of BMW Models Using Index 12 Injectors:

Several BMW models rely on Index 12 injectors. Some of the most commonly affected models include:

  • BMW X5 (2010-2013)
  • BMW X6 (2008-2014)
  • BMW 335i (2007-2010)
  • BMW 135i (2008-2010)
  • BMW 550i (2011-2013)
  • BMW Z4 (2009-2016)

Why Trust Supertech Auto for Your BMW Repairs

Your BMW fuel injector repairs are always performed using the same computers and modules that technicians at your local BMW authorized dealer would use. What’s more, at Supertech Auto, we replace your vehicle parts with genuine OEM parts and your vehicle’s manufacturer-authorized fluids to ensure your factory warranty is kept current. Additionally, we back up our work with our 3-year/60, 000 Km Nationwide Warranties.

Visit Supertech Auto Repair North Vancouver for Your Next BMW Service and Repairs 

If you haven’t serviced your BMW vehicle for some time, we recommend that you visit Supertech Auto Repair North Vancouver. Our Red Seal Certified mechanics will use the latest diagnostic tools to determine the condition of your BMW vehicle and inform you about any potential issues that may lead to more serious and costlier problems. Schedule your BMW for regular maintenance and trusted repairs at competitive prices. By entrusting us with your BMW, you can be sure that it will perform like new for many years. For exceptional BMW service and repairs, contact us online or call us at 604-980-9801 to book your appointment. We’ve built our company by removing the frustration from auto repair.