The Solution to F-Series BMW S55 Oil Thermostat Issues
Even the most powerful beasts have their weaknesses, and the BMW S55 engine is no exception. Every time you start your S55 and put your foot down, you might notice a slight sluggishness in the engine. You’ve replaced all the brand performance parts, but it still feels inadequate. Today, let’s talk about what you might have overlooked—the Oil Thermostat.
1. What is the Oil Thermostat?
The oil thermostat is a crucial component in the engine’s oil cooling system. It controls the flow of oil between the engine and the oil cooler, regulating the oil temperature to ensure optimal performance.
2. How It Works
When the oil temperature is low, the thermostat remains closed, allowing the oil to circulate within the engine to warm up quickly. Once the oil temperature rises to a certain point, the thermostat opens, directing the oil to the oil cooler to dissipate excess heat. This prevents the oil from overheating, which can degrade its performance and lifespan.
3. What Causes S55 Failure and why It Matters ?
The stock oil thermostat in the S55 engine has a relatively high opening temperature. This can lead to excessively high oil temperatures during high-load or aggressive driving, negatively impacting engine performance and longevity. This is where a performance oil thermostat comes into play.
The primary culprit is the high operating temperature of the oil. When the oil gets too hot, it loses its lubricating properties, leading to increased friction and wear within the engine. Over time, this can result in engine failure and other serious issues.
4. The Solution: Jagrow Custom Performance Oil Thermostat
Replacing the stock oil thermostat with a custom performance oil thermostat from Jagrow can significantly improve the situation.
- Lower Oil Temperature
The custom oil thermostat opens at a lower temperature compared to the stock one. For example, while the stock thermostat might open around 110°C, the Jagrow thermostat can start opening at 73°C and fully open at 85°C. This allows the oil to enter the cooler sooner, effectively reducing the operating oil temperature.
- Optimized Oil Flow
By opening earlier, the custom oil thermostat ensures that the oil maintains better flow characteristics throughout the engine’s operation. This reduces the risk of oil viscosity breakdown due to high temperatures, ensuring consistent lubrication.
- Extended Oil Life
High temperatures can cause oil to oxidize and break down more quickly. By keeping the oil temperature in check, the custom thermostat extends the lifespan of the oil, reducing the frequency of oil changes and maintenance costs.
- Enhanced Engine Performance
With better temperature management, the engine benefits from improved lubrication and reduced internal friction. This translates to better power delivery and overall engine performance.
- Improved Compatibility with Upgrades
If you’ve already upgraded your S55 with a larger turbocharger or higher power output modifications, the stock oil thermostat may not be sufficient. The custom thermostat is designed to work better with these upgrades, ensuring stability and reliability even at higher power levels.
5. Considerations
- Low-Temperature Flow Issues
In colder environments, the custom oil thermostat might affect the oil’s flow characteristics during startup. This could potentially lead to insufficient lubrication and engine wear. It’s important to ensure proper warm-up procedures to mitigate this risk.
- Installation Compatibility
The custom oil thermostat needs to be compatible with your S55’s oil cooling system. Some installations might require additional modifications or adjustments to ensure proper fit and function.
The custom performance oil thermostat is a game-changer for the BMW S55 engine. By effectively managing oil temperature, it enhances engine performance, reliability, and longevity. Whether you’re a track enthusiast or simply want to get the most out of your S55, upgrading to a custom oil thermostat is a smart move. Say goodbye to sluggish performance and hello to a smoother, more powerful driving experience.