BMW 528i 2011-2016 Exhaust Specifications
BMW 528i 2011-2016

BMW 528i 2011-2016 Exhaust Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2011-2016 BMW 528i exhaust system. Learn about components, torque specs, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the N20 turbocharged engine.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the exhaust specifications for the 2011-2016 BMW 528I, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific exhaust specifications by entering keywords such as 'catalytic converter', 'muffler', or 'exhaust pipe diameter'.

Navigate through the exhaust documentation sections by using the table of contents or clicking on the section headers in the sidebar.

Key Specifications

Exhaust Pipe Diameter

2.25 inches

Catalytic Converter Length

12.5 inches

Muffler Weight

12.5 lbs

Maximum Flow Rate

450 CFM

Backpressure at 5000 RPM

1.2 psi

Available Specifications

Exhaust System Components

Detailed breakdown of the primary components of the exhaust system, including materials, dimensions, and functional roles.

Catalytic Converter
  • Material: Stainless steel with ceramic honeycomb substrate
  • Dimensions: 12.5 inches in length, 5.5 inches in diameter
  • Efficiency: Reduces harmful emissions by up to 90%
  • Operating Temperature: 400°C to 800°C
Muffler
  • Material: Aluminized steel with internal baffles
  • Dimensions: 24 inches in length, 8 inches in width
  • Noise Reduction: Reduces exhaust noise by 20-30 dB
  • Weight: 12.5 lbs

Note: The muffler is designed to minimize backpressure while optimizing sound dampening.

Exhaust Pipes
  • Material: 409-grade stainless steel
  • Diameter: 2.25 inches (main pipe), 1.75 inches (secondary pipes)
  • Wall Thickness: 1.5 mm
  • Corrosion Resistance: Rated for 10+ years under normal conditions

Exhaust System Performance

Technical details on the performance characteristics of the exhaust system, including flow rates, backpressure, and emissions compliance.

Flow Rate
  • Maximum Flow Rate: 450 CFM (cubic feet per minute)
  • Optimal Flow Rate: 350 CFM at 3000 RPM
  • Backpressure: 1.2 psi at 5000 RPM
  • Pressure Drop: 0.8 psi across the catalytic converter
Emissions Compliance
  • Compliance: Meets Euro 5 and EPA Tier 2 standards
  • CO2 Emissions: 150 g/km
  • NOx Emissions: 0.05 g/km
  • Particulate Matter: 0.005 g/km

Note: The system includes an oxygen sensor for real-time emissions monitoring.

Exhaust System Maintenance

Guidelines for maintaining the exhaust system, including inspection intervals, common issues, and replacement recommendations.

Inspection Intervals
  • Visual Inspection: Every 10,000 miles
  • Emission System Check: Every 20,000 miles
  • Catalytic Converter Efficiency Test: Every 50,000 miles
  • Muffler Integrity Check: Every 30,000 miles
Common Issues
  • Corrosion: Check for rust, especially in high-humidity areas
  • Leaks: Inspect for cracks or holes in the pipes
  • Noise: Excessive noise may indicate a failing muffler
  • Performance Drop: Reduced power could signal a clogged catalytic converter

Note: Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of the exhaust system by up to 50%.

Component Specifications

General Specifications

System Type
Twin-pipe exhaust system with dual tailpipes
Material
Stainless steel
Weight
Approximately 22.5 kg
Emission Standard
EU5 compliant
Part Number
18307585277

Exhaust Manifold

Material
Cast iron
Bolt Torque
25 Nm
Gasket Part Number
11627548921
Heat Shield Part Number
11627548922
Notes
Ensure proper alignment during installation to avoid leaks

Catalytic Converter

Type
Three-way catalytic converter
Part Number
18307585278
Operating Temperature
400-800°C
Efficiency
>95%
Replacement interval
120,000 miles or 10 years
Notes
Monitor for clogging or damage to prevent engine performance issues

Oxygen Sensors

Upstream Sensor Part Number
11787558023
Downstream Sensor Part Number
11787558024
Operating Voltage
0.1-0.9 V
Replacement interval
100,000 miles
Notes
Ensure proper wiring and connector integrity during replacement

Muffler

Type
Dual-chamber muffler
Part Number
18307585279
Noise Level
<72 dB
Material
Stainless steel
Notes
Inspect for rust or damage during routine maintenance

Exhaust Pipes

Diameter
60 mm
Material
Stainless steel
Length
Approximately 2.5 meters
Clamp Part Number
18307585280
Notes
Ensure proper alignment and secure clamping to prevent leaks

Exhaust Flanges

Material
Stainless steel
Bolt Torque
30 Nm
Gasket Part Number
18307585281
Notes
Inspect for warping or damage during disassembly

Exhaust Hangers

Material
Rubber with steel core
Part Number
18307585282
Quantity
4
Notes
Replace if cracked or deteriorated to prevent excessive movement

Exhaust Valve

Type
Electronically controlled exhaust flap
Part Number
18307585283
Operating Voltage
12 V
Notes
Ensure proper electrical connections and functionality during diagnostics

Diagnostic Specifications

Backpressure Limit
<0.5 bar
Oxygen Sensor Response Time
<100 ms
Catalytic Converter Efficiency Threshold
>90%
Notes
Use BMW-specific diagnostic tools for accurate readings

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the exhaust system

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Inspect exhaust system for leaks, damage, and corrosion
  • Check oxygen sensor functionality
  • Verify catalytic converter efficiency

Perform visual and functional checks during routine maintenance

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Replace oxygen sensors if necessary
  • Inspect and tighten exhaust clamps and hangers
  • Check exhaust valve operation

Ensure all components are securely fastened and functioning properly

100,000 miles
84 months
  • Replace catalytic converter if efficiency is below threshold
  • Inspect and replace exhaust hangers if deteriorated
  • Perform full exhaust system diagnostic

Follow BMW-recommended procedures for component replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the exhaust system configuration for the 2011-2016 BMW 528i?

The 2011-2016 BMW 528i features a dual exhaust system with a single turbocharger. The system includes a catalytic converter, resonator, and muffler. The exhaust pipes are made of stainless steel with a diameter of 60mm, designed to optimize exhaust flow and reduce backpressure.

Q2

What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the exhaust system?

BMW recommends inspecting the exhaust system every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. Key checks include inspecting for leaks, corrosion, and ensuring all mounting brackets and hangers are secure. The catalytic converter should also be checked for proper function during routine emissions testing.

Q3

Can I replace the stock exhaust with an aftermarket system?

Yes, but it is crucial to ensure the aftermarket system complies with local emissions regulations and does not void the vehicle's warranty. BMW recommends using genuine or BMW-approved parts to maintain performance and avoid potential issues with the vehicle's ECU and emissions systems.

Q4

What are the torque specifications for exhaust manifold bolts?

The exhaust manifold bolts on the 2011-2016 BMW 528i should be torqued to 23 Nm (17 ft-lbs) in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow the manufacturer's tightening sequence.

Q5

How do I identify a failing catalytic converter?

Symptoms of a failing catalytic converter include reduced engine performance, increased exhaust emissions, a sulfur-like smell, and the illumination of the check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) such as P0420 or P0430 may also indicate catalytic converter inefficiency.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW Exhaust System Repair Manual

Coming Soon

Official BMW repair manual for the 2011-2016 528i exhaust system, including step-by-step procedures and torque specifications.

Exhaust System Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide on maintaining and troubleshooting the exhaust system, including common issues and solutions.

Genuine BMW Exhaust Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Catalog of genuine BMW exhaust components, including part numbers and compatibility information for the 2011-2016 528i.

Emissions Compliance and Regulations

Coming Soon

Detailed information on emissions standards and how they apply to the 2011-2016 BMW 528i exhaust system.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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