BMW acknowledges N54 engine turbo lag, releases software update

Posted Wed Nov 19 2008 4:43 AM by Ralph Hanson

BMW N54 engine cross section
Latest software will address turbo lag issue but may increase engine noise

In an effort to address specific noise concerns, BMW in the United States updated the turbocharged engine software on 335i/xi and 535i/xi models built from June 2006 through March 2008. However, the updated software caused a small amount of increased turbocharger lag under certain circumstances, which BMW confirmed is noticeable and now plans to address by releasing a new update.

Release of the new software to restore the original turbocharger response is planned for January 2009, and it will be available for vehicles produced from September 2007 through March 2008 when they are brought to an authorized BMW center for a repair that requires a programming update.

Owners with vehicles produced from June 2006 through September 2007 may also request installation of the January 2009 software update. However, BMW states that changing to new software may increase engine noise levels under certain circumstances.

Other vehicles that use the same N54 3.0L twin-turbo six, such as the X6, 135i, as well as 3-series and 5-series models produced from March onwards are not affected. Earlier this year, a global panel of judges awarded the 300hp N54 as engine of the year, picking it for its flexibility and mix of performance and fuel-economy.

Reader Comments

  • Wed Nov 19 2008 5:33 AM

    Jim says

    BMW denying that there is a problem with one of their vehicles? That's as predictable as the sun rising in the east.

  • Wed Nov 19 2008 1:10 PM

    NoNameDenton says

    Least they admitted it and are fixing it Toyota never admits anything

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