CSF BMW F90 M5/F92 M8 High-Performance Charge Coolers

CSF #8178 High-Performance Charge Coolers are a liquid-to-air charge-air cooling upgrade developed for the BMW F90 M5 and F9X M8 platform, designed to improve cooling capacity while maintaining a direct-fit installation.

Each charge cooler uses a custom-designed liquid-to-air intercooler core developed with CFD analysis and testing. CSF states that the core volume is approximately 100% larger per cooler than the OEM charge-air coolers, providing greater cooling capacity for high-performance applications.

The OEM crimped plastic end tanks are replaced by larger cast end tanks with 100% TIG-welded construction. The system also incorporates seamless air inlet tanks with integrated charge pipes, replacing the OEM plastic charge-pipe arrangement.

Each cooler features dual 1/8 NPT ports integrated into the air outlet end tank, providing provisions for E85 or methanol injection systems. OEM-style quick-connect water connections and sensor ports are retained for compatibility with the factory cooling system.

CSF developed the system using 3D scanning and rapid prototyping technology to maximize available surface area and achieve precise fitment. The #8178 is supplied as a complete left/right set with installation hardware and uses a drop-in fit design with no modifications necessary.

In CSF's testing, the upgraded charge coolers significantly reduced intake air temperatures and improved 60–130 mph acceleration by approximately 0.30 seconds. This testing was conducted on a modified Stage 3 F90 M5, so the result should be considered test-specific rather than a guaranteed gain for every vehicle.

The system fits the BMW F90 M5 Sedan, F91 M8 Convertible, F92 M8 Coupe and F93 M8 Gran Coupe, with exact application depending on vehicle specification and model year.