7" Race Intercooler for BMW F2x, F3x, F87, M135i, M235i, 335i, 435i, M2 N55 F-Series INCLUDING Parts Approval Certificate

A properly built FBO (Full Bolt-On) setup requires more than just a high-flow downpipe, upgraded charge pipes, and a custom ECU calibration. When running increased boost pressure, an upgraded intercooler becomes an essential component for controlling intake air temperatures and maintaining reliable engine performance.

Designed for BMW N55-powered vehicles, this high-performance race intercooler delivers improved thermal efficiency, excellent resistance to heat soak, and consistent cooling performance during demanding driving conditions.

Why a Larger Intercooler Matters

During the development of multiple performance packages for BMW N54 and N55 engines, extensive testing was performed with different intercooler designs to determine the ideal balance between cooling capacity, airflow efficiency, and pressure drop.

As boost pressure increases, compressed charge air temperatures rise significantly. When intake temperatures become excessive, the ECU begins reducing ignition timing to protect the engine from knock and misfires. This safety intervention can result in noticeable power reduction.

Depending on the ECU calibration, ignition corrections typically begin when intake temperatures approach approximately 50°C (120°F).

With the factory intercooler or smaller aftermarket solutions, these temperatures can often be reached after only a few aggressive acceleration runs, especially in warmer weather conditions.

This upgraded intercooler uses a large Bar & Plate core designed to absorb heat gradually while maintaining stable intake temperatures during extended high-load driving. The result is improved consistency, reduced heat soak, and dependable performance even under demanding conditions.

Engineered for BMW N55

Building on the success of the proven 7.5-inch Bar & Plate intercooler developed for the BMW N54 platform, engineers created an equally effective cooling solution specifically optimized for N55-powered vehicles.

The result is a 7-inch Race Intercooler featuring the same proven core technology while offering simplified installation and improved compatibility.

Unlike the larger N54 version, this intercooler installs without requiring trimming or modification of the plastic components located behind the front bumper.

Multiple prototype cores were evaluated during development, with the final design delivering the best combination of cooling performance, efficient airflow characteristics, and minimal pressure loss for BMW N55 applications.

Weighing approximately 13.5 kg (29.8 lbs), this intercooler is designed for enthusiasts who prioritize maximum thermal performance rather than minimizing front-end weight. Even in ambient temperatures around 30°C (86°F), it maintains stable intake air temperatures during repeated acceleration.

Proven Performance Testing

Test Vehicle

BMW M235i equipped with a Full Bolt-On Stage 2 setup running on 98 RON fuel.

Test Conditions

• Ambient temperature: approximately 10°C
• Initial intake air temperature: 17.2°C
• Final intake air temperature: 22.2°C
• Acceleration performed from 3rd through 6th gear, ending at 5,700 RPM in 6th gear

During the complete acceleration run, intake air temperature increased by only 5°C, demonstrating the intercooler's exceptional resistance to heat soak and its ability to maintain efficient charge air cooling.

Back-to-Back Comparison

Before installation of the 55Parts Race Intercooler, the test vehicle was equipped with a popular aftermarket intercooler from a well-known German manufacturer.

Using identical ambient conditions and the same acceleration procedure from 4th to 6th gear, the competing intercooler recorded an intake temperature increase of approximately 15°C.

The significantly lower temperature increase achieved by this upgrade demonstrates the superior thermal efficiency of the 335i race intercooler design during sustained high-load operation.

Vehicle Compatibility

Please note that this intercooler is not designed as a direct plug-and-play solution for convertible models.

The included Teilegutachten (Parts Approval Certificate) covers a wide range of BMW F-Series applications, including:

• BMW F20/F21
• BMW F22/F23
• BMW F30/F31/F34
• BMW F87
• BMW M135i
• BMW M235i
• BMW 335i
• BMW 435i
• BMW M2 N55

The approval documentation includes applicable vehicle type designations and EC type approval numbers.

Package Contents

• 1 × 7-inch Bar & Plate intercooler
• 1 × Teilegutachten (Parts Approval Certificate)

Design & Construction

Manufactured around a high-density Bar & Plate core, this intercooler is engineered to provide exceptional thermal capacity while maintaining low pressure loss throughout the intake system.

Precision-produced aluminum end tanks optimize airflow distribution across the entire core, ensuring efficient heat transfer and consistent performance during demanding driving conditions.

The robust construction makes this upgrade an excellent choice for high-performance street vehicles, tuned BMW platforms, and cars that regularly experience prolonged heavy engine loads.

For drivers searching for a reliable race intercooler solution capable of supporting increased boost levels while maintaining stable intake temperatures, this 7-inch Bar & Plate design provides the ideal combination of cooling performance, durability, and airflow efficiency.