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“Thanks to EngineMarket, I saved over £1,200 on my engine replacement and got matched with a great local specialist within the hour.”
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BMW M3 Engine ReplacementCompare Prices & Save
Get quotes today from trusted UK BMW M3 engine specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used engines - supply & fit available nationwide.
E46 M3 3.2 Straight-Six Engines - from £2,500 to £7,500
-> Rebuilt units from £3,200 · Common codes: S54B32, S54B30
E9x M3 4.0 V8 Engines - from £3,500 to £9,500
-> Rebuilt units from £4,500 · Common codes: S65B40, S65B44
F80 & G80 M3 Twin-Turbo Engines - from £4,500 to £14,000
-> Rebuilt units from £5,500 · Common codes: S55B30, S58B30
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How It Works
3 Simple Stepsto Finding the Best BMW M3 Replacement Engine
Get Instant Quotes from BMW Engine Specialists Across the UK - 100% free, no obligation. Most replacements completed within 3-5 days.
Most replacements completed within 3-5 days.
12-Month Warranty
Supply & Fit Available
Nationwide Delivery
Trusted UK Suppliers
Live UK Engine Market Data
What Are UK Drivers Paying for BMW M3 Engine Replacement?
The table below shows typical UK rebuilt engine replacement costs across different BMW M3 variants, covering known failure causes, engine codes, fuel types, and engine sizes.
Average Market Prices
- BMW M3 (E36) M3 Evolution1995-1999£3,000-£6,500VANOS failureS50B32Petrol 3.2L
- BMW M3 (E36) M31992-1995£2,500-£5,500VANOS failureS50B30Petrol 3.0L
- BMW M3 (E46) M32001-2006£3,500-£8,000VANOS failureS54B32Petrol 3.2L
- BMW M3 (E46) M3 CSL2003-2004£5,000-£12,000VANOS failureS54B32Petrol 3.2L
- BMW M3 (E90) M3 Saloon2007-2011£5,500-£11,000Rod bearing failureS65B40Petrol 4.0L
- BMW M3 (E92) M3 Coupe2007-2013£5,500-£11,000Rod bearing failureS65B40Petrol 4.0L
- BMW M3 (E93) M3 Convertible2008-2013£5,500-£11,000Rod bearing failureS65B40Petrol 4.0L
- BMW M3 (E90) M3 GTS2010-2011£8,000-£16,000Rod bearing failureS65B44Petrol 4.4L
- BMW M3 (F80) M32014-2018£5,000-£10,000Crank hub failureS55B30Petrol 3.0L
- BMW M3 (F80) M3 Competition2016-2018£5,500-£11,000Crank hub failureS55B30Petrol 3.0L
- BMW M3 (F80) M3 CS2017-2018£6,000-£13,000Crank hub failureS55B30Petrol 3.0L
- BMW M3 (G80) M32021-2026£7,000-£14,000Spun crank hubS58B30Petrol 3.0L
- BMW M3 (G80) M3 Competition2021-2026£7,500-£16,000Spun crank hubS58B30Petrol 3.0L
- BMW M3 (G80) M3 Competition xDrive2021-2026£8,000-£17,000Spun crank hubS58B30Petrol 3.0L
Last updated: 22 May, 14:59
Customer Reviews
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Models We Cover
BMW M3 Engine ReplacementAll Variants Covered
From the classic E36 M3 to the high-performance G80 M3 Competition xDrive, our network of UK BMW M3 engine specialists helps you compare rebuilt, reconditioned and used engine prices. Typical price range for a rebuilt unit with 12-month warranty - supply & fit available nationwide.
Classic Generation (E30, E36, E46)
Specs200hp
Years1986-1991
Rebuilt£6,000-£12,000
V8 Generation (E90, E92, E93)
Turbo Generation (F80, G80)
Variant Directory
Diesel Variants
None available for this model.
Petrol Variants
M3M3 CSM3 CSLM3 CompetitionM3 Competition M xDriveM3 Competition xDriveM3 ConvertibleM3 CoupeM3 E30M3 E36M3 E36 EvolutionM3 E46M3 E90M3 E92M3 E93M3 F80M3 G80M3 G81 TouringM3 GTSM3 IndividualM3 M PerformanceM3 PureM3 SaloonM3 Touring
Performance Variants
M3 CS (E46)M3 CS (F80)M3 CSL (E46)M3 CRT (E90)M3 DTM (E92)M3 GTS (E92)M3 Pure (F80)M3 UK Limited Edition (E46)
Engine Codes
BMW M3 Engine CodesFull Technical Specifications & Replacement Guide
Every engine code fitted to the BMW M3 across all generations, with technical specs, compatible variants and trims, known failure points, and average rebuilt prices from UK specialists. Select any engine code to compare quotes.
Petrol Engines
Extracted from detailed petrol and performance engine families across BMW M3 variants.
Can't find your engine code?
Can’t find your engine code? Enter your registration number above - we’ll instantly identify the exact unit, its technical specifications, and live replacement prices from UK BMW M3 engine specialists. Every rebuilt engine comes with a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty.
Common Problems
BMW M3 Engine Problems
What It Costs to Fix & When Replacement Makes Sense
Every rebuilt engine includes a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty.
1. BMW M3 S65 V8 Rod Bearing Failure
The E9x M3’s Achilles Heel
Affected Models
BMW M3 E90 Saloon, E92 Coupé, E93 Convertible (2007-2013, S65B40 & S65B44)
Typical Failure Mileage
50,000 - 90,000 miles
Root Cause
Insufficient bearing clearance from the factory leads to oil film breakdown at high rpm. The result is metal-to-metal contact, bearing material shedding into the oil, and eventual seizure or rod failure.
Repair Options & Estimated Costs (UK ranges)
| Repair Tier | Dealer Price | Specialist Price | What It Involves | Longevity / Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Preventative - Bearing Replacement (before knocking starts) Minor | £2,800 - £4,500 | £1,800 - £2,800 | Replacement of rod bearings with uprated aftermarket units (e.g., ACL or King), new bolts, oil flush | Permanent fix when done preventatively. 80k+ mile lifespan on new bearings |
Intermediate - Crank Polish & Bearings (early knock) Intermediate | £5,000 - £7,500 | £3,500 - £5,000 | Crank inspection and polishing, uprated bearing replacement, oil system flush | Viable only if crank surface undamaged. Adds 40k-60k miles |
Full Replacement - Rebuilt / Reconditioned S65 Best Value | £12,000 - £18,000 | £6,500 - £11,000 | Complete rebuilt engine with uprated bearings, new timing components, bench tested, 12‑month warranty | 100k+ mile lifespan. Only permanent solution if crank or block damaged |
Our Recommendation
Best next step for bmw m3 s65 v8 rod bearing failure
If your S65 is silent and below 70k miles, invest in preventative bearing replacement through a specialist. This costs £1,800-£2,800 and saves a £6,500+ replacement. If you already hear knocking, stop driving immediately. A full rebuild or replacement is usually required once the crank is scored. On a car worth £12,000-£25,000, spending £6,500-£11,000 on a rebuilt S65 with uprated bearings makes financial sense compared to scrapping the vehicle.
Don't Let Engine Failure Write Off Your BMW M3
From S65 rod bearing death rattle to S55 crank hub slip and S54 VANOS failure, every M3 generation has a known vulnerability. But these weaknesses are predictable and manageable. EngineMarket connects you with trusted UK BMW M3 specialists who supply rebuilt engines with upgraded components designed to eliminate the original failure point - not just put you back to factory spec. All units carry a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty with nationwide delivery and supply & fit options. Compare prices today and get back on the road without the main dealer premium.
Compare BMW M3 Engine Replacement Prices Now →BMW M3 Engine Problems
What It Costs to Fix & When Replacement Makes Sense
Affected Models
BMW M3 E90 Saloon, E92 Coupé, E93 Convertible (2007-2013, S65B40 & S65B44)
Typical Failure Mileage
50,000 - 90,000 miles
Root Cause
Insufficient bearing clearance from the factory leads to oil film breakdown at high rpm. The result is metal-to-metal contact, bearing material shedding into the oil, and eventual seizure or rod failure.
Preventative - Bearing Replacement (before knocking starts)
Dealer
£2,800 - £4,500
Specialist
£1,800 - £2,800
Replacement of rod bearings with uprated aftermarket units (e.g., ACL or King), new bolts, oil flush
Permanent fix when done preventatively. 80k+ mile lifespan on new bearings
Intermediate - Crank Polish & Bearings (early knock)
Dealer
£5,000 - £7,500
Specialist
£3,500 - £5,000
Crank inspection and polishing, uprated bearing replacement, oil system flush
Viable only if crank surface undamaged. Adds 40k-60k miles
Full Replacement - Rebuilt / Reconditioned S65
Dealer
£12,000 - £18,000
Specialist
£6,500 - £11,000
Complete rebuilt engine with uprated bearings, new timing components, bench tested, 12‑month warranty
100k+ mile lifespan. Only permanent solution if crank or block damaged
Our Recommendation
Best next step for bmw m3 s65 v8 rod bearing failure
If your S65 is silent and below 70k miles, invest in preventative bearing replacement through a specialist. This costs £1,800-£2,800 and saves a £6,500+ replacement. If you already hear knocking, stop driving immediately. A full rebuild or replacement is usually required once the crank is scored. On a car worth £12,000-£25,000, spending £6,500-£11,000 on a rebuilt S65 with uprated bearings makes financial sense compared to scrapping the vehicle.
Don't Let Engine Failure Write Off Your BMW M3
From S65 rod bearing death rattle to S55 crank hub slip and S54 VANOS failure, every M3 generation has a known vulnerability. But these weaknesses are predictable and manageable. EngineMarket connects you with trusted UK BMW M3 specialists who supply rebuilt engines with upgraded components designed to eliminate the original failure point - not just put you back to factory spec. All units carry a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty with nationwide delivery and supply & fit options. Compare prices today and get back on the road without the main dealer premium.
Compare BMW M3 Engine Replacement Prices Now →Disclaimer: All prices are indicative UK market ranges based on historical quote data and repair requests from our network of engine specialists. Dealer pricing is estimated based on published main dealer labour rates and genuine OEM parts pricing. Specialist pricing reflects actual quote data from EngineMarket’s UK network. Actual costs vary depending on damage severity, vehicle condition, variant, and workshop location within the UK. Use our free comparison tool to get tailored quotes for your specific BMW M3 and engine code. Every engine supplied through EngineMarket carries a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty - always confirm exact terms with your chosen supplier.
12-Month Warranty
Upgraded Components
Nationwide UK Delivery
Save vs Main Dealer Price
Replacement Engine Options
BMW M3 Engine TypesOptions, Costs & What to Expect
Every engine type for your BMW M3 is available through our UK network, with typical price ranges varying by variant, engine code (S54, S65, S55, S58) and budget.
All engine types include a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty when sourced through EngineMarket. Prices are typical UK market ranges based on historical quote data from our network and depend on exact engine code, variant, mileage and supplier. Use our free comparison tool above - enter your registration to get tailored quotes for your specific BMW M3 within hours.
Engine Sizes
BMW M3 Engines by SizeFind the Right Displacement for Your Variant
Every displacement fitted to the BMW M3 is listed below, with compatible engine codes, production years, power outputs, and common failure notes - organised by fuel type.
BMW M3 Petrol Engine Sizes
The original M3 engine, developed from BMW Motorsport’s Formula 1-derived M12/13 unit. Produced specifically for the E30 M3 to meet Group A touring car homologation requirements, this four-cylinder engine defined the M3’s high-revving character and remains a favourite among classic collectors.
| Engine Code(s) | S14B23, S14B25 |
| Compatible Models (UK) | E30 M3 (1986-1991), E30 M3 Evolution, E30 M3 Sport Evolution |
Common Failure Points
Watch for these known weak points
Throttle linkage wear, rocker arm failure at high rpm, cooling system leaks
Not sure which engine size your BMW M3 needs? Enter your registration number above - we'll identify the exact displacement, engine code and compatible replacement options instantly. All engines supplied through EngineMarket include a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty from UK BMW M3 specialists.
BMW M3 Engines Fuel Type
BMW M3 Engines by Fuel Type
Choose your BMW M3 engine by fuel type to compare realistic replacement prices, known issues, and compatible UK supply options - from the four-cylinder E30 to the latest twin-turbo G80.
BMW M3 Petrol Engines
BMW M3 Petrol Engines
Every BMW M3 ever sold in the UK has been petrol-powered, spanning four-cylinder homologation units, legendary straight-sixes, a unique V8, and modern twin-turbo sixes.
Common Engine Families
S14 - Four-cylinder (E30 M3), high-revving Group A homologation engine
S50 - Straight-six (E36 M3), single and dual VANOS, 286-321 hp
S54 - Straight-six (E46 M3), 8,000 rpm redline, individual throttle bodies
S65 - V8 (E90/E92/E93 M3), 8,400 rpm, derived from M5 V10
S55 - Twin-turbo straight-six (F80 M3), closed-deck crankcase, crank hub weakness
S58 - Twin-turbo straight-six (G80 M3), 3D-printed core, 473-550 hp
Found In
E30 M3 (1986-1991) - S14B23, S14B25
E36 M3 (1992-1999) - S50B30, S50B32
E46 M3 (2000-2006) - S54B32
E90/E92/E93 M3 (2007-2013) - S65B40, S65B44
F80 M3 (2014-2018) - S55B30
G80 M3 / G81 M3 Touring (2021-present) - S58B30
Known For
High-revving naturally aspirated character across all pre-F80 generations
S65 rod bearing failure - the most searched M3 engine problem in the UK
S55 crank hub slip - catastrophic timing loss on early F80s
S54 VANOS failure and rod bearing wear on E46 M3
Excellent specialist support network across the UK
Typical Models (UK)
E30 M3, E36 M3 Evolution, E46 M3 CSL, E92 M3 V8, F80 M3 Competition, G80 M3 xDrive
Not sure which fuel type your BMW M3 has? Enter your registration number above to instantly identify your engine code, fuel system and compatible replacement options - all backed by a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty from UK BMW M3 specialists.
Engine Years
BMW M3 Engines by YearWhat Was Fitted & When
This timeline covers every UK-market BMW M3 generation from 1986 to the present, organised so owners can quickly identify their engine code, variant, and compare rebuilt engine prices from UK specialists.
1986 - 1991 - E30 M3: The Homologation Legend
Major Engine Change
The original M3 was born from Group A touring car regulations, requiring 5,000 road-going examples. Its four-cylinder engine shared DNA with the legendary M1 supercar.
Key Changes
First M3 generation, built exclusively as a two-door coupe
S14 engine derived from BMW M1's M88 straight-six (two cylinders removed)
Evolved from 2.3L to 2.5L in final Sport Evolution models
Over 17,900 units produced - well above homologation requirements
Known For
High-revving 10.5:1 compression four-cylinder character
Homologation special with DTM racing pedigree
Rocker arm failures at sustained high rpm (track use)
Cooling system leaks common on higher-mileage units
Main Engines
S14B23 - 2.3L Petrol (E30 M3, E30 M3 Evolution)
S14B25 - 2.5L Petrol (E30 M3 Sport Evolution)
Popular Models
BMW M3 E30 (1986-1991)
BMW M3 Evolution
BMW M3 Sport Evolution
Engine Codes Covered
S14B23S14B25
Common Replacement Enquiries
BMW M3 S14 engine replacement cost
E30 M3 engine for sale UK
S14B23 rebuilt engine price
Get quotes for 1986-1991 BMW M3 E30 replacement engines
1986 - 1991 - E30 M3: The Homologation Legend
Major Engine Change
The original M3 was born from Group A touring car regulations, requiring 5,000 road-going examples. Its four-cylinder engine shared DNA with the legendary M1 supercar.
Key Changes
First M3 generation, built exclusively as a two-door coupe
S14 engine derived from BMW M1's M88 straight-six (two cylinders removed)
Evolved from 2.3L to 2.5L in final Sport Evolution models
Over 17,900 units produced - well above homologation requirements
Known For
High-revving 10.5:1 compression four-cylinder character
Homologation special with DTM racing pedigree
Rocker arm failures at sustained high rpm (track use)
Cooling system leaks common on higher-mileage units
Main Engines
S14B23 - 2.3L Petrol (E30 M3, E30 M3 Evolution)
S14B25 - 2.5L Petrol (E30 M3 Sport Evolution)
Engine Codes Covered
S14B23S14B25
Popular Models
BMW M3 E30 (1986-1991)
BMW M3 Evolution
BMW M3 Sport Evolution
Common Replacement Enquiries
BMW M3 S14 engine replacement cost
E30 M3 engine for sale UK
S14B23 rebuilt engine price
Get quotes for 1986-1991 BMW M3 E30 replacement engines
Year Finder
Not sure which year your BMW M3 was built?
Not sure which year your BMW M3 was built? Enter your registration number and we'll identify the exact engine, model year, and compatible replacement options instantly - all backed by a minimum 12‑month warranty from UK BMW M3 specialists.
FAQ
BMW M3 Engine ReplacementFrequently Asked Questions
Question 1
Is the BMW M3 S65 V8 rod bearing failure really that common, and can it be prevented?
Yes, S65 rod bearing failure is well-documented across E90/E92/E93 M3s. The issue stems from excessively tight bearing clearances from the factory, which restricts oil flow when cold. Preventative replacement is highly recommended.
Key points
- • Failure typically occurs between 50,000-90,000 miles, often without warning
- • Cold starts and high revs before oil reaches temperature accelerate wear significantly
- • Uprated aftermarket bearings (ACL, King) with correct clearance eliminate the factory flaw
- • A spun bearing usually destroys the crankshaft, requiring full engine replacement
- • Specialist preventative replacement costs £1,800-£2,800 - far less than a £6,500+ rebuild
Question 2
What is the S55 crank hub issue on the F80 M3, and does every car need the fix?
The factory S55 crank hub is friction-fit only, not keyed. Under high torque or sudden load, the hub can spin relative to the crankshaft, destroying valve timing and bending valves. Not every car fails, but tuned cars are at much higher risk.
Key points
- • Stock cars can fail too - documented failures below 20,000 miles on unmodified engines
- • The hub controls camshaft timing; a slip causes piston-to-valve contact, ruining the engine
- • Aftermarket keyed or pinned hub kits (VTT, Insane, Mosselman) permanently fix the weakness
- • Preventative installation costs £1,600-£2,400 from a UK specialist
- • If the hub has already spun, you need a complete rebuilt S55 with new valves
Question 3
How much does an E46 M3 S54 VANOS rebuild cost, and is it worth doing?
S54 VANOS failure is inevitable on higher-mileage E46 M3s. A seal-only rebuild costs £700-£1,200, while a full VANOS unit overhaul with reinforced parts runs £1,500-£2,500. It is absolutely worth doing preventatively.
Key points
- • VANOS rattle and loss of low-end torque are the earliest warning signs
- • The factory oil pump disc hub can shear, sending debris through the engine
- • Upgraded Viton seals and reinforced hubs make the VANOS permanent
- • A failed VANOS that contaminates the oil system often destroys rod bearings too
- • Combined VANOS and rod bearing refresh is the smartest E46 M3 ownership move
Question 4
Which BMW M3 generation has the most reliable engine?
The G80 M3's S58 engine has proven exceptionally reliable - Auto Bild's 100,000km endurance test found almost no mechanical wear. The E36's S50 and E46's S54 are also robust when maintained, though both have known weak points.
Key points
- • G80 M3 S58: Near-flawless 62,000-mile test, no cylinder wear or leaks
- • E36 M3 S50: Strong engine but VANOS and oil pump nut need attention
- • E46 M3 S54: Reliable if VANOS and rod bearings are addressed proactively
- • E90 M3 S65: The least reliable due to rod bearing and throttle actuator issues
- • S85 and S65 V8s share the same bearing clearance flaw from the factory
Question 5
What is the correct engine oil for my BMW M3, and why does it matter for rod bearings?
BMW M3s require 10W-60 oil - a thick, high-performance lubricant designed specifically for M engines. Using the wrong oil or skipping changes dramatically accelerates rod bearing wear, especially in S54 and S65 engines.
Key points
- • Genuine BMW M TwinPower Turbo 10W-60 is the factory-specified oil for S54, S65, and S85 engines
- • The thick oil protects bearings under high load and at extreme temperatures
- • Cold oil is viscous; always keep revs below 3,000rpm until the engine reaches operating temperature
- • Annual or 6,000-mile oil changes are strongly recommended for high-performance M engines
- • Specialist rebuilds always include an oil system flush to remove bearing debris
Question 6
Is it worth replacing the engine on a high-mileage BMW M3, or should I sell the car?
On an E46, E90, or F80 M3 worth £12,000-£35,000, a rebuilt engine with upgraded components is almost always worth it - especially when the alternative is selling a non-running car at a massive loss.
Key points
- • A non-running M3 with engine failure sells for 30-50% of market value
- • A rebuilt S54 costs £4,500-£8,000; an S65 £6,500-£11,000; an S55 £5,500-£10,000
- • Rebuilt engines include failure-specific upgrades the factory never fitted
- • A documented specialist rebuild adds value to discerning buyers
- • On a G80 M3 worth £50,000+, an engine replacement is always justified
Question 7
How long does a rebuilt BMW M3 engine last, and what warranty do I get?
A correctly rebuilt M3 engine using upgraded components should last 100,000+ miles - often longer than the factory original. All engines supplied through EngineMarket carry a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty.
Key points
- • Specialist rebuilds include uprated rod bearings, VANOS fixes, or crank hub solutions
- • Mr Vanos, a UK leader, offers 2 years / 20,000 miles warranty on road-use engines
- • A rebuilt S65 with ACL bearings addresses the factory clearance flaw permanently
- • S55 engines with keyed crank hubs eliminate the spun hub risk entirely
- • Always confirm exact warranty terms with your chosen supplier before purchase
Question 8
Can I fit a used BMW M3 engine from a breaker, or should I buy rebuilt?
A used engine is cheaper (£2,000-£5,500) but carries the same factory flaws that caused the original failure. A rebuilt engine costs more but eliminates those weaknesses. For S65 and S55 engines especially, rebuilt is strongly advised.
Key points
- • Used S65 engines still have the same rod bearing clearance problem waiting to fail
- • Used S55 engines still have the same friction-fit crank hub weakness
- • A used engine has unknown service history and no warranty on internal wear
- • Rebuilt engines include upgraded components and bench testing before delivery
- • For E46 M3s, a used S54 is viable if VANOS and bearings were recently done
Question 9
What causes the BMW M3 S54 to overheat, and when does it need a head gasket?
The S54 runs high compression and generates significant heat. Head gasket failure typically occurs between cylinders 3-4 or 4-5, allowing combustion gases into the coolant system. Early detection prevents engine damage.
Key points
- • Coolant loss, misfire on cold start, and pressurised expansion tank are early signs
- • A specialist head gasket replacement costs £1,800-£2,800
- • If the engine has overheated badly, the head may warp - requiring full replacement
- • Many owners combine head gasket work with VANOS and rod bearing refresh
- • Upgraded MLS head gaskets are available for performance builds
Question 10
How do I know which BMW M3 engine code my car has, and why does it matter?
Your M3's engine code is stamped on the cylinder block and listed in your V5C logbook. It matters because S54 (E46), S65 (E9x), S55 (F80), and S58 (G80) engines have completely different failure patterns, parts, and replacement costs.
Key points
- • E46 M3 = S54B32 (3.2L straight-six) - VANOS and rod bearing issues
- • E90/E92/E93 M3 = S65B40 (4.0L V8) - rod bearing and throttle actuator failures
- • F80 M3 = S55B30 (3.0L twin-turbo) - crank hub weakness
- • G80 M3 = S58B30 (3.0L twin-turbo) - generally reliable, early oil pump concerns
- • Enter your registration above to instantly identify your exact engine code
Why Choose Us
Why UK BMW M3 Owners Trust EngineMarket
Join thousands of UK drivers who compare BMW M3 engine prices through our network of trusted specialists - every rebuilt and reconditioned unit backed by a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty and nationwide delivery.
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Compare engine prices for BMW M3 in the UK and get competitive quotes from garages near you.
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