Is it possible to replace the engine in a BMW with a larger one?

BMW driver question

I own a BMW 3. It drives very nicely with the current power, but I would still like to add 50 hp. How much does it cost to replace the engine and can you guys find me an engine or do I have to look on my own? What is the best engine to put in so that I don’t have to replace the exhaust, steering and other components? Please reply.

The question is about BMW 3 E46 touring with 316,115 km. The following advice applies to all BMW combustion cars.

BMW 318i E46 | By Charles01 (Own work)[CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Response from BM Cars service

Replacement of the engine in your BMW E46 with a larger (more powerful) one is technically possible, but it entails a number of consequences that you should know about before deciding on the replacement. A larger engine with more power and torque for its proper operation requires the simultaneous replacement of the following components:

• transmission system: clutch, gearbox, driveshaft, rear axle,
• cooling system: radiator, fan,
• braking system: calipers, discs, pads,
• exhaust system: catalytic converter, muffler.

The above components must be matched to the engine’s power and torque. We assume, of course, that a complete engine is replaced, including accessories, controller and immobilizer (with a new set of keys).

Given the above requirements, it is necessary to calculate whether such an operation makes economic sense.

Among the workshops engaged in swaps (replacements) of engines, there are also those that replace the engine itself, without replacing the above-mentioned components. However, the durability of such a solution is questionable. It resembles more the design of a vehicle for a 1-mile race than for normal daily use.

We offer new engines, as well as original and proprietary replacements for all components.

We invite you to take advantage of our service.

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BMW 318i E46 | By Alexander Lindquist[CC BY-ND 2.0]