BMW 1 3 Series E87 E90 120i 320i N46 Exhaust Manifold Catalytic Converter Cat

BMW 1 3 Series E87 E90 120i 320i N46 Exhaust Manifold Catalytic Converter Cat is an original exhaust system component designed for BMW 1 Series E87 and 3 Series E90 petrol engines. Combining the manifold and catalytic converter into a single assembly ensures stable exhaust parameters, proper engine operation, and compliance with the factory characteristics of the N46 unit. This used OEM component is a sensible choice for professional repairs or replacing a damaged factory part.

Specifications and technical data

• SKU: 7532997
• Mark: BMW (Genuine OE)
• Condition: Used
• OEM Part Number: 7532997
• Substitutable numbers: 18407525460, 7525460, 120i 320i, catalyst, 7532997
• Category: Manifolds & Headers

Purpose and function in the exhaust system

This exhaust manifold integrated with a catalytic converter is designed for BMW N46 family petrol engines used in 1 Series E87 and 3 Series E90 models. The component is responsible for:

• collecting exhaust gases from individual cylinders and discharging them evenly,
• maintaining the correct backpressure in the exhaust system,
• working in conjunction with lambda sensors and the engine control unit,
• reducing harmful exhaust components in the integrated catalytic converter.

Thanks to the factory manifold geometry, proper exhaust flow dynamics are maintained, which translates into engine refinement and stable performance across typical RPM ranges.

Construction and fitment for BMW 1 and 3 Series

The exhaust manifold with catalytic converter is an OEM design, prepared for installation at the factory mounting points of the N46 engine cylinder head. This means:

• compatibility with the original BMW exhaust system,
• fitment for standard heat shields and mounts,
• compatibility with factory sensors and lambda probes,
• retention of the standard exhaust routing under the vehicle.

This solution facilitates installation and avoids the modifications often required with universal replacements. Exhaust manifolds in this configuration are crucial for the proper operation of the engine management system, which is why using an original component is important for both durability and diagnostics.

Benefits of using a pre-owned manifold with catalytic converter

Choosing a used exhaust manifold with catalytic converter for BMW 1 and 3 Series allows for a significant reduction in repair costs while maintaining the factory design. Such a component is particularly recommended when:

• the original manifold has cracked or suffered thermal deformation,
• the catalytic converter in the vehicle is mechanically damaged,
• there are leaks around the manifold causing power loss or engine control unit errors,
• a complete replacement of the manifold-catalytic converter assembly is necessary.

By using an original, pre-owned component, you maintain factory fitment for the N46 unit, which simplifies future service and reduces the risk of compatibility issues.

Application in service and exhaust system tuning

The exhaust manifold with catalytic converter in this configuration is suitable for both standard repairs and exhaust system modifications where the stock engine architecture is to be preserved. This is particularly important for daily-driven vehicles where the priority is:

• stable engine operation across the full RPM range,
• compliance with factory ECU maps,
• maintaining appropriate exhaust emission levels,
• no need for interference with the electrical installation and sensors.

For users interested in a broader context of exhaust system upgrades and selecting used components, it is worth checking out the guide: performance exhaust systems and used manifolds with catalytic converters.

Expanding the repair – other BMW Exhaust Manifolds

If you are planning a comprehensive repair or upgrade of the engine area in your BMW and need other components from the same group, such as additional manifolds, connecting sections, or mounting hardware, check out the available parts in the BMW Exhaust Manifolds category.