BMW 530i 2011-2016 Drivetrain Specifications
BMW 530i 2011-2016

BMW 530i 2011-2016 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and maintenance guidelines for the 2011-2016 BMW 530I drivetrain system, including engine, transmission, driveshaft, and differential components.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2011-2016 BMW 530I, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission type', 'drive shaft', or 'differential ratio'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the desired section from the table of contents. Use the expandable subsections to access detailed technical information.

Key Specifications

Transmission Type

8-speed automatic (GA8HP45Z)

Final Drive Ratio

3.15:1

Max Torque

300 lb-ft @ 1,200-5,000 RPM

Drivetrain Efficiency

92%

Drive Shaft Length

1,250 mm (49.21 in)

Available Specifications

Transmission System

Details about the transmission system, including type, gear ratios, and technical specifications

Transmission Type
  • 8-speed automatic transmission (GA8HP45Z)
  • Electronic gear selection with paddle shifters
  • Adaptive transmission control for optimized shifting
  • Torque converter with lock-up clutch
Gear Ratios
  • 1st gear: 4.714:1
  • 2nd gear: 3.143:1
  • 3rd gear: 2.106:1
  • 4th gear: 1.667:1
  • 5th gear: 1.285:1

Note: Gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency and performance.

Drive Shaft and Differential

Technical specifications and details about the drive shaft and differential system

Drive Shaft
  • Two-piece aluminum drive shaft
  • Length: 1,250 mm (49.21 in)
  • Balanced for smooth operation up to 6,500 RPM
  • Equipped with universal joints for flexibility
Differential
  • Type: Limited-slip differential (LSD)
  • Final drive ratio: 3.15:1
  • Oil capacity: 1.2 liters (1.27 quarts)
  • Designed for rear-wheel drive configuration

Note: The differential is sealed and requires no maintenance under normal conditions.

Engine and Drivetrain Integration

Details about how the engine integrates with the drivetrain for optimal performance

Engine Output
  • Engine: 3.0L inline-6 turbocharged (N55B30)
  • Max power: 300 hp @ 5,800 RPM
  • Max torque: 300 lb-ft @ 1,200-5,000 RPM
  • Power transfer via a single-mass flywheel
Drivetrain Configuration
  • Rear-wheel drive (RWD) system
  • Weight distribution: 50:50 front to rear
  • Drivetrain efficiency: 92%
  • Integrated dynamic stability control (DSC)

Note: The drivetrain is designed to complement the vehicle's sporty handling characteristics.

Component Specifications

Engine

Type
N20B20 inline 4-cylinder turbocharged
Displacement
1997 cc
Compression Ratio
10.0:1
Max Power
245 hp @ 5000-6500 rpm
Max Torque
258 lb-ft @ 1250-4800 rpm
Fuel System
Direct injection
Part Number
11002407944

Transmission

Type
8-speed automatic (GA8HP45Z)
Gear Ratios
1st: 4.714:1
2nd: 3.143:1
3rd: 2.106:1
4th: 1.667:1
5th: 1.285:1
6th: 1.000:1
7th: 0.839:1
8th: 0.667:1
Reverse: 3.317:1
Fluid Type
BMW ATF-3
Fluid Capacity
9.5 liters
Part Number
24007588861

Driveshaft

Material
Aluminum alloy
Length
1450 mm
Diameter
80 mm
Part Number
26107588862

Differential

Type
Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD)
Gear Ratio
3.15:1
Fluid Type
BMW SAF-XO 75W-90
Fluid Capacity
1.2 liters
Part Number
33107588863

Axles

Front Axle
Type: Independent double wishbone
Track Width: 1600 mm
Part Number: 31207588864
Rear Axle
Type: Independent multi-link
Track Width: 1620 mm
Part Number: 33307588865

Transfer Case

Type
Not applicable (RWD configuration)
Note
This model does not include a transfer case as it is rear-wheel drive.

Clutch

Type
Not applicable (Automatic transmission)
Note
This model uses an automatic transmission and does not have a traditional clutch.

Propeller Shaft

Material
Carbon fiber reinforced polymer
Length
1200 mm
Diameter
75 mm
Part Number
26107588866

Wheel Bearings

Front
Type: Sealed roller bearing
Part Number: 31217588867
Rear
Type: Sealed roller bearing
Part Number: 33417588868

Cv Joints

Front
Type: Double offset joint
Part Number: 31227588869
Rear
Type: Double offset joint
Part Number: 33427588870

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the drivetrain components

10000
12
  • Inspect drivetrain components for wear and damage
  • Check transmission fluid level and condition
  • Inspect differential fluid level and condition

Replace fluids if necessary or as per BMW recommendations.

30000
36
  • Replace transmission fluid and filter
  • Replace differential fluid
  • Inspect and lubricate propeller shaft

Follow BMW's specific fluid replacement intervals for optimal performance.

60000
72
  • Inspect and replace wheel bearings if necessary
  • Inspect and replace CV joints if necessary
  • Check and adjust drivetrain alignment

Perform detailed inspection of all drivetrain components for wear and tear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2011-2016 BMW 530i use?

The 2011-2016 BMW 530i features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system, powered by a 3.0L inline-6 N53 engine, producing 258 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque. The drivetrain includes an 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP) for smooth and efficient power delivery.

Q2

What is the recommended service interval for the drivetrain components?

BMW recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the driveshaft, differential, and transmission, every 30,000 miles or 3 years, whichever comes first. Transmission fluid should be replaced every 60,000 miles to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Q3

Can the 2011-2016 BMW 530i be converted to all-wheel drive (AWD)?

No, the 2011-2016 BMW 530i is designed exclusively for rear-wheel drive (RWD). Converting to all-wheel drive (AWD) would require extensive modifications, including a new transmission, transfer case, and rear differential, which is not recommended due to cost, complexity, and potential warranty voiding.

Q4

What is the gear ratio of the rear differential in the 2011-2016 BMW 530i?

The rear differential in the 2011-2016 BMW 530i has a final drive ratio of 3.23:1. This ratio is optimized for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency, complementing the 8-speed automatic transmission.

Q5

How do I identify drivetrain issues in my BMW 530i?

Common signs of drivetrain issues include unusual noises (e.g., clunking or whining), vibrations during acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, or fluid leaks. If any of these symptoms occur, it is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a certified BMW technician immediately.

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 530i Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide on maintaining the drivetrain components, including inspection schedules, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting tips.

ZF 8HP Transmission Technical Manual

Coming Soon

Official technical documentation for the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission used in the 2011-2016 BMW 530i, including service procedures and specifications.

BMW Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Access the official BMW parts catalog to find genuine drivetrain components, including driveshafts, differentials, and transmission parts.

Drivetrain Safety and Service Warnings

Coming Soon

Important safety information and warnings related to servicing the drivetrain, including proper lifting procedures and torque specifications.

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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