BMW's M54 engine was a solid step forward in the development of power, efficiency, and lower emissions, but that lower emissions came at a price. The factory thermostat is electronically controlled to keep the engine running between 80-103°C, whereas we like to maintain 80°C or less for maximum power. Additionally, the mechanical failsafe doesn't open up until the coolant temperature reaches 110°C, or 230°F, which is about the point when we turn our race cars off and park them - it's no wonder so many M54 engines get overheated and killed!
The AAF M54 Competition Thermostat Plate Kit is designed to give the control of proper engine operating temperature back to the owner/builder by replacing the stock electronic thermostat with a manual unit (replaces BMW part no. 11 53 7 509 227). This allows the engine to run at the proper, and much safer, operating temperature, improving engine longevity, reduces stress from high-temp. operation, reduces heat soak, and increases power!
Kit includes:
- Modified thermostat housing
- Aluminum intermediate plate
- Mechanical thermostat - 80°C
- Thermostat O-ring
- Seal ring
- Stainless steel bolt (4)
- Stainless steel washer (4)
Cover on the sensor plug harness may require removal to clear the fan once installed. A trouble code will show up in your engine computer due to the absence of the electronic control, but this is only visible to a diagnostic tool, and does not show on the instrument cluster.
A 80°C replacement thermostat can be found below in the related products. Other temps available, see the 80°C listing for other options.
Notice of Emissions Non-Compliance. This product is intended only for vehicles that may never be used, or registered or licensed for use, upon a public highway. Removing, disabling, or altering emissions equipment on a pollution-controlled road vehicle is illegal. Installing devices or software that trick, disable, or modify emissions controls and monitors on a pollution-controlled road vehicle is also illegal. This product is sold only for racing, competition, track, hobby, or other off-road use. It is not legal for installation or use in California on any pollution controlled motor vehicle. It is not legal for installation or use on any pollution controlled motor vehicle in any state, province, or jurisdiction governed by, or which has adopted, CARB or EPA regulations. Some suppliers have shipping exceptions to certain states or territories, requiring extra delivery time. We will advise you of any delays.
BMW Fitments:
3 Series
E46 (99-05) > 323Ci
E46 (99-05) > 323i
E46 (99-05) > 325Ci
E46 (99-05) > 325i
E46 (99-05) > 325xi
E46 (99-05) > 328Ci
E46 (99-05) > 328i
E46 (99-05) > 330Ci
E46 (99-05) > 330i
E46 (99-05) > 330xi
5 Series
E39 (97-03) > 525i
E39 (97-03) > 528i 99-00
E39 (97-03) > 530i
5 Series
E60 / E61 (04-10) > 525i M54 (2004-2005)
E60 / E61 (04-10) > 530i M54 (2004-2005)
X3 Series
E83 X3 (04-10) > X3 2.5i M54 (2004-2005)
E83 X3 (04-10) > X3 3.0i M54 (2004-2006)
X5 Series
E53 X5 (00-06) > X5 3.0i M54
Z Series
E36/7 / E36/8 Z3 (96-02) > Z3 2.3
E36/7 / E36/8 Z3 (96-02) > Z3 2.5
E36/7 / E36/8 Z3 (96-02) > Z3 2.8 99-00
E36/7 / E36/8 Z3 (96-02) > Z3 3.0
Z Series
E85 / E86 Z4 (03-08) > Z4 2.5i M54
E85 / E86 Z4 (03-08) > Z4 3.0i M54