Original BMW Secondary Air Injection Control Valve for BMW E46 323i, 325i, 328i, and 330i (1999–2003)

The Original BMW secondary air injection control valve meters the air sent into the cylinder head during cold starts on 1999–2003 BMW E46 3 Series models with the M52 and M54 six-cylinder engines. It mounts to the side of the cylinder head and controls how much air the secondary air pump delivers at start-up. That extra air helps burn off unburned fuel while the engine and catalytic converter are still cold, which cuts carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon output. The valve also acts as a check valve, directing air into the exhaust stream and stopping exhaust gas from flowing back toward the air pump. Over time, carbon can build up inside and block the valve, which may mean it needs replacing. This valve is made in Spain.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

BMW's parts data names this part simply 'Valve' and shows the current number entering production in June 2005. It supersedes the earlier 11-72-7-540-469, and BMW rates the change as exchangeable retrospectively, so the newer valve can go on E46 cars that left the factory with the older number. The same valve serves the sedan, coupe, and convertible E46 six-cylinder cars, and it covers both the earlier M52 engine and the later M54, so one part number handles the whole span.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW
• Part number: 11-72-7-553-063
• BMW part name: Valve (secondary air injection control valve)
• Position: side of the cylinder head
• Production start: June 2005
• Supersedes 11-72-7-540-469, exchangeable retrospectively
• Engines: M52 and M54 six-cylinder
• Country of manufacture: Spain
• Sold individually
• Warranty: 24-month Original BMW parts warranty

Common Questions

What symptoms point to a failing secondary air valve?
A check engine light is the most common sign, with codes such as P0410 or P0411 stored. Some cars also show rough idle, hesitation, or reduced acceleration around cold starts.

My car has the older 11-72-7-540-469 valve. Will this one fit?
Yes. BMW rates this number as exchangeable retrospectively for the earlier valve.

Why replace it if the car still drives normally?
A failed valve raises emissions, which may only show up at an emissions test, and left unresolved it can affect the catalytic converter over time.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the fitment table below to confirm the exact year, make, model, submodel, and any application notes before ordering. With over 20 years of parts and fitment experience, PMB Performance can match this to your VIN.