BMW 330i 2012-2018 3.0L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
BMW 330i 2012-2018

BMW 330i 2012-2018 3.0L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for all major bolts on the 3.0L engine found in the 2012-2018 BMW 330i (F30 generation). Includes cylinder head, main bearing, rod bearing, and other critical bolt torques.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Cylinder Head

Fasteners related to the cylinder head and its components. Includes head bolts, valve cover bolts, and related sensors.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Important Notes
Tighten cylinder head bolts in the specified sequence. Final tightening requires two 90 degree angle steps after the initial torque.
2

Valve Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten valve cover bolts in a criss-cross pattern. Do not overtighten.
3

Camshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Tighten carefully to avoid damaging the sensor.
4

VANOS Solenoid Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten carefully to avoid damaging the solenoid.
5

Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten rocker arm bolts evenly to prevent binding.

Engine Block

Fasteners associated with the engine block and its main components. Includes main bearing bolts, oil pan bolts, and related sensors.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Important Notes
Tighten main bearing bolts in the specified sequence, using an angle tightening sequence after the initial torque.
2

Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten oil pan bolts in a criss-cross pattern. Do not overtighten.
3

Crankshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Tighten carefully to avoid damaging the sensor.
4

Knock Sensor Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Tighten to prevent false readings.

Connecting Rods

Fasteners for connecting rods.

1

Connecting Rod Nuts

M9 x 1.0
Important Notes
Tighten connecting rod nuts in the specified sequence using an angle tightening sequence after initial torque.

Flywheel

Fasteners for the flywheel.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
60 ft-lbs (81 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten flywheel bolts in a star pattern.

Timing Components

Fasteners related to timing components, including the tensioner and sprockets.

1

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the tensioner is properly positioned before tightening.
2

Camshaft Sprocket Bolt

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
100 ft-lbs (136 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten carefully to ensure proper alignment.

Front Engine

Fasteners for the front of the engine, including the crankshaft pulley, water pump, and drive belt components.

1

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a crankshaft holding tool to prevent rotation while tightening.
2

Water Pump Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten the water pump bolts evenly to avoid leaks.
3

Water Pump Pulley Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten the pulley bolts evenly to avoid runout.
4

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten the housing bolts evenly to ensure a leak-free seal.
5

Serpentine/Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure correct tensioner position before tightening.
6

Drive Belt Idler Pulley Bolt

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the idler pulley is properly aligned before tightening.

Intake Exhaust

Fasteners related to the intake and exhaust systems.

1

Throttle Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten throttle body bolts evenly to prevent warping.
2

Intake Manifold Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten intake manifold bolts in a criss-cross pattern to prevent leaks.
3

Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten exhaust manifold bolts evenly to ensure proper seal.

Fuel System

Fasteners related to fuel system components.

1

Fuel Injector Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten carefully to avoid damaging fuel injectors.

Lubrication

Fasteners related to oil system components.

1

Oil Filter Housing Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten to ensure leak-free seal.
2

Oil Drain Plug Bolt

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Use new washer if recommended, tighten to proper torque to prevent leaks.

Ignition

Fasteners related to the ignition system.

1

Spark Plugs

M14 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper sealing and prevent thread damage.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

Why are correct torque specifications important for my BMW 330i's 3.0L engine?

Correct torque ensures proper clamping force, preventing leaks, component failure, and potential damage. Over-tightening can strip threads or deform parts, while under-tightening can lead to loosening and leaks. In the 3.0L engine, proper torque is critical for things like head bolts to maintain proper compression and prevent head gasket failures.

Q2

What happens if I don't use a torque wrench?

Without a torque wrench, you're relying on guesswork, which is risky. You could easily overtighten, causing damage, or undertighten, leading to leaks and failures. For instance, undertightening the oil pan drain plug can lead to oil loss, while overtightening can damage the threads on the oil pan.

Q3

Should I use new bolts when working on my 3.0L engine?

For many critical applications, like cylinder head bolts and connecting rod bolts, new bolts are recommended by BMW. These are often 'torque-to-yield' bolts, meaning they stretch slightly upon installation and should not be reused to maintain proper clamping pressure. Reusing such bolts can cause leaks or even engine damage.

Q4

What should I do if I accidentally overtighten a bolt?

If you overtighten a bolt, especially in aluminum components, you risk damaging the threads or the part. In this situation you should not loosen and retighten to the correct torque, as the bolt may have been stretched or the component damaged. You should remove the bolt carefully, and inspect the bolt and the threads for damage. It's best to replace the bolt and if you suspect thread damage, use a thread repair kit or seek a professional repair.

Q5

Where can I find the specific torque specs for my 2012-2018 BMW 330i's engine components?

Always consult the official BMW repair manual for your specific model and engine. These manuals provide the most accurate and up-to-date torque specifications. Online resources and forums can be helpful, but cross-reference information with a verified source. Be aware that generic torque specs may not always be correct.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/2" drive)

A calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening bolts to specified torque values.

  • Click-type or digital
  • Wide torque range suitable for engine components
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8" drive)

A smaller torque wrench is useful for smaller bolts and tighter areas.

  • Click-type or digital
  • Lower torque range
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive set of metric sockets in various sizes is required to fit the different bolt heads on the engine.

  • Standard and deep sockets
  • Sizes ranging from 8mm to 19mm and above
Learn more

Socket Extensions

Extensions help reach bolts in deep or confined spaces on the engine.

  • Various lengths
  • 1/2" and 3/8" drive
Learn more

Universal Joint Adapter

A universal joint adapter allows the socket to be used at an angle when straight access is not possible.

  • 1/2" and 3/8" drive
  • Flexible joint
Learn more
Service Procedures

Cylinder Head Bolt Tightening Procedure

The procedure to tighten the cylinder head bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque, using correct tightening sequence. These are usually torque-to-yield bolts.

  • 1. Clean the threads on the bolts and in the engine block.
  • 2. Install the cylinder head, ensuring the dowels are correctly aligned.
  • 3. Install the new cylinder head bolts and tighten by hand in the correct sequence.
  • 4. Using the correct torque wrench, tighten all bolts to the first torque specification in the recommended sequence.
  • 5. Using the correct torque wrench, tighten all bolts to the second torque specification in the recommended sequence.
  • 6. Apply the recommended angle tightening procedure in the recommended sequence.
View full procedure

Intake Manifold Bolt Tightening Procedure

The procedure to tighten the intake manifold bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque using the correct tightening sequence.

  • 1. Clean the threads on the bolts and the manifold.
  • 2. Position the intake manifold correctly on the engine.
  • 3. Install the bolts and tighten by hand.
  • 4. Using the correct torque wrench, tighten the bolts to the specified torque in the correct sequence.
  • 5. Double check the bolts are correctly torqued in the sequence provided.
View full procedure

Exhaust Manifold Bolt Tightening Procedure

The procedure to tighten the exhaust manifold bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque using the correct tightening sequence.

  • 1. Clean the threads on the bolts and the manifold.
  • 2. Position the exhaust manifold correctly on the engine.
  • 3. Install the bolts and tighten by hand.
  • 4. Using the correct torque wrench, tighten the bolts to the specified torque in the correct sequence.
  • 5. Double check the bolts are correctly torqued in the sequence provided.
View full procedure

Main Bearing Cap Bolt Tightening Procedure

The procedure to tighten the main bearing cap bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque, using correct tightening sequence. These are usually torque-to-yield bolts.

  • 1. Clean the threads on the bolts and in the engine block.
  • 2. Install the main bearing caps, ensuring the correct orientation.
  • 3. Install the bolts and tighten by hand in the correct sequence.
  • 4. Using the correct torque wrench, tighten all bolts to the first torque specification in the recommended sequence.
  • 5. Using the correct torque wrench, tighten all bolts to the second torque specification in the recommended sequence.
  • 6. Apply the recommended angle tightening procedure in the recommended sequence.
View full procedure

Connecting Rod Bolt Tightening Procedure

The procedure to tighten the connecting rod bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque, using correct tightening sequence. These are usually torque-to-yield bolts.

  • 1. Clean the threads on the bolts and in the connecting rod.
  • 2. Install the connecting rod cap, ensuring the correct orientation.
  • 3. Install the bolts and tighten by hand in the correct sequence.
  • 4. Using the correct torque wrench, tighten all bolts to the first torque specification in the recommended sequence.
  • 5. Using the correct torque wrench, tighten all bolts to the second torque specification in the recommended sequence.
  • 6. Apply the recommended angle tightening procedure in the recommended sequence.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Engine Oil Leak from Oil Filter Housing

2016-03-15

Some 3.0L engines may experience oil leaks from the oil filter housing due to improper torque of the housing bolts during prior service.

2012-2016 BMW 330i

Resolution: Remove the oil filter housing and replace the gasket. Ensure bolts are torqued to the correct specification (typically 22 Nm) in the correct sequence. Do not over-torque.

Cylinder Head Bolt Stretch Issues

2017-11-20

Certain model year 3.0L engines may experience cylinder head bolt stretch during operation if the head was not re-torqued correctly after installation, causing coolant leaks or other related issues.

2014-2017 BMW 330i

Resolution: Inspect the cylinder head bolts for signs of stretch. If any issues are suspected, remove the head and install new bolts using the recommended tightening procedure including torque and angle tightening specifications. Refer to TIS.

VANOS System Bolt Loosening

2018-05-10

Bolts associated with the variable valve timing (VANOS) system might loosen if not torqued correctly, resulting in timing issues, rough engine running or fault codes.

2015-2018 BMW 330i

Resolution: Check VANOS system bolts for correct torque. Refer to TIS to locate specific bolts and their torque values. Retorque bolts as per the manufacturer's guidelines if required.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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