BMW 540i 2011-2016

BMW 540i 2011-2016 Fuel System Specifications

Detailed technical guide for the fuel system of the 2011-2016 BMW 540I, including fuel type, pressure, injector, and pump specifications for the N55B30 engine.

Updated Oct 4, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the fuel specifications for the 2011-2016 BMW 540I, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific fuel specifications by entering keywords such as 'octane rating', 'fuel capacity', or 'emission standards'.

Navigate through the fuel documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each section is clearly labeled for easy access.

Key Specifications

Fuel Type

Premium unleaded gasoline (91 AKI/95 RON)

Fuel Tank Capacity

18.5 gallons (70 liters)

Fuel Pump Pressure

5.8 bar (84 psi)

Combined Fuel Economy

24 mpg (9.8 L/100 km)

CO2 Emissions

220 g/km

Available Specifications

Fuel Type and Quality

Details on the recommended fuel type, quality standards, and octane rating for optimal performance

Recommended Fuel Type

Premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI (95 RON) or higher
Minimum octane rating of 89 AKI (91 RON) is acceptable but may reduce performance
Do not use diesel, E85, or any fuel with more than 10% ethanol
Fuel must meet BMW-approved quality standards (e.g., TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline)

Fuel Additives

Avoid using aftermarket fuel additives unless approved by BMW
BMW-approved additives may be used for cleaning the fuel system
Additives must not contain metallic compounds or manganese-based substances
Follow manufacturer guidelines for additive usage

Note: Using unapproved additives may void the vehicle warranty.

Fuel System Specifications

Technical details about the fuel system, including capacity, pressure, and component specifications

Fuel Tank Capacity

Total fuel tank capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)
Reserve fuel capacity: 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters)
Fuel tank material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
Fuel tank design: Multi-chambered for improved safety and efficiency

Fuel Pump and Pressure

Electric fuel pump with a maximum pressure of 5.8 bar (84 psi)
Fuel pump flow rate: 150 liters per hour (39.6 gallons per hour)
Fuel pressure regulator integrated into the fuel pump module
Fuel filter integrated into the fuel pump assembly

Emission and Environmental Compliance

Information on emission standards, fuel efficiency, and environmental compliance

Emission Standards

Complies with Euro 5 and ULEV II emission standards
Equipped with a catalytic converter and oxygen sensors
Onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) system monitors emissions
Particulate filter not required for gasoline engines

Fuel Efficiency

City fuel economy: 20 mpg (11.8 L/100 km)
Highway fuel economy: 30 mpg (7.8 L/100 km)
Combined fuel economy: 24 mpg (9.8 L/100 km)
CO2 emissions: 220 g/km

Note: Fuel efficiency may vary based on driving conditions and maintenance.

Search Specifications

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Component Specifications

Fuel Type

Recommended Fuel: Premium unleaded gasoline (91 AKI or 95 RON)

Minimum Octane Rating: 89 AKI (87 RON)

Ethanol Content: Up to 10% ethanol (E10)

Notes: Using fuel with lower octane may reduce performance and fuel efficiency

Fuel Tank

Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)

Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)

Part Number: 16117183745

Pressure Rating: 3.0 bar (43.5 psi)

Notes: Includes integrated fuel pump and level sensor

Fuel Pump

Type: Electric in-tank fuel pump

Flow Rate: 120 liters per hour (31.7 gallons per hour)

Operating Pressure: 5.0 bar (72.5 psi)

Part Number: 16147183746

Voltage: 12V DC

Notes: Includes integrated fuel filter

Fuel injectors

Type: Direct injection (DI)

Flow Rate: 200 cc/min at 3.0 bar

Part Number: 13537585291

Spray Pattern: Multi-hole

Operating Pressure: 200 bar (2900 psi)

Notes: High-pressure injectors for precise fuel delivery

Fuel Filter

Type: Integrated with fuel pump

Filtration Rating: 10 microns

Replacement interval: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)

Part Number: 16147183746

Notes: Non-serviceable, replaced as part of the fuel pump assembly

Fuel Pressure Regulator

Type: Mechanical

Operating Pressure: 5.0 bar (72.5 psi)

Part Number: 13537585292

Location: Integrated into fuel rail

Notes: Maintains consistent fuel pressure for optimal performance

Fuel Rail

Material: Aluminum

Part Number: 13537585293

Pressure Rating: 200 bar (2900 psi)

Notes: High-pressure rail for direct injection system

Fuel System Capacity

Total System Capacity: 19.5 gallons (74 liters)

Usable Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)

Reserve Capacity: 1.0 gallon (3.8 liters)

Notes: Reserve capacity activates low fuel warning light

Fuel System Diagnostics

Diagnostic Trouble Codes

P0171
P0172
P0174
P0175
P0181
P0182

Diagnostic Tool: BMW ISTA/D or compatible OBD-II scanner

Notes: Codes indicate lean/rich conditions, fuel pressure issues, or sensor malfunctions

Fuel System Maintenance

inspection Interval: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

Maintenance Items

Check fuel lines for leaks
Inspect fuel pump operation
Verify fuel pressure
Check for fuel contamination

Notes: Regular maintenance ensures optimal fuel system performance

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the fuel system

30,000 miles

24 months

Inspect fuel lines and connections
Check fuel pump operation
Verify fuel pressure

Early detection of issues prevents fuel system damage

60,000 miles

48 months

Replace fuel filter (if applicable)
Inspect fuel injectors
Check for fuel contamination

Critical for maintaining fuel system efficiency

100,000 miles

84 months

Replace fuel pump assembly
Inspect fuel tank for damage
Verify fuel pressure regulator operation

Preventive replacement ensures long-term reliability

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of fuel is recommended for the 2011-2016 BMW 540i?

The 2011-2016 BMW 540i requires premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. Using lower octane fuel may result in reduced performance and engine knocking.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2011-2016 BMW 540i?

The fuel tank capacity of the 2011-2016 BMW 540i is 18.5 gallons (70 liters). This allows for a driving range of approximately 400-500 miles depending on driving conditions and fuel efficiency.

Can I use ethanol-blended fuel in the 2011-2016 BMW 540i?

Yes, the 2011-2016 BMW 540i can use ethanol-blended fuel with up to 10% ethanol (E10). However, fuels with higher ethanol content (e.g., E15 or E85) are not recommended as they can damage the fuel system and void the warranty.

What is the fuel economy of the 2011-2016 BMW 540i?

The 2011-2016 BMW 540i has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance.

How often should I replace the fuel filter in the 2011-2016 BMW 540i?

The fuel filter in the 2011-2016 BMW 540i is designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle under normal driving conditions. However, it should be inspected during routine maintenance and replaced if signs of clogging or contamination are detected.

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 Fuel System Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A comprehensive guide to maintaining the fuel system of your BMW 540i, including fuel filter replacement and fuel injector cleaning.

Understanding Octane Ratings

Coming Soon

Learn about octane ratings and why using the correct fuel is crucial for the performance and longevity of your BMW 540i engine.

Ethanol-Blended Fuels and Your BMW

Coming Soon

An in-depth look at the effects of ethanol-blended fuels on BMW vehicles and how to choose the right fuel for your 540i.

BMW Fuel Efficiency Tips

Coming Soon

Practical tips to improve the fuel efficiency of your BMW 540i, including driving habits and maintenance practices.

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