The BMW M40B16 engine – a low-volume in-line 4-cylinder engine of the BMW M40 series, was released in 1988 and was developed on the basis of the M40B18, in which a crankshaft with a smaller stroke and other pistons were installed, the connecting rods remained the same.
M40 1.6 differ from 1.8 and the intake manifold, throttle valve, spark plugs and ECU. The cylinder head has not changed, still the same 8-valve single camshaft (SOHC), with hydraulic valve clearance compensators. The diameter of the intake valves is 42 mm, exhaust 36 mm. Characteristics of the M40 camshafts: phase 244/244 rise 10.6/10.6 mm.
The timing belt drive, the belt itself is not very reliable and does not have the proper width, as a result of which it has a low resource. On average, the replacement of the timing belt and roller on the M40 is required every ~ 40 thousand km, otherwise, if it breaks, the engine bends the valve.
This motor was used on BMW cars with the 16i index.
M40 family: M40B16, M40B18.
Specifications
| Production years | 1988-1994 Steyr Plant |
| Displacement, cc | 1596 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 100 /5500 rpm 102 /5500 rpm |
| Torque output, Nm | 141 /4250 rpm 143 /4250 rpm |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 72 |
| Compression ratio | 9.0 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 1 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km — city — highway — combined |
10.2 6.1 7.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~275 000 |
| Weight, kg | ~132 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW 3-Series E30 in 1988 – 1994, 3-Series E36 in 1990 – 1994;
- Bertone Freeclimber 2 in 1992 – 1993.
Disadvantages of the M40B16 engine
- The most famous engine problem in the accelerated development of the camshaft cams;
- The timing belt with a roller needs to be replaced every 40,000 km; if it breaks, the valves bend;
- The nozzles here get dirty quickly, the engine starts to blunt, traction dips appear;
- The reason for floating speed is usually air leakage, throttle contamination, idle valve;
- Due to the wear of plastic flanges, the level of antifreeze drops and the engine overheats.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW M40B16
How much power does the BMW M40B16 make?
Power output of the BMW M40B16, hp: 100 /5500 rpm; 102 /5500 rpm. Torque, Nm: 141 /4250 rpm; 143 /4250 rpm.
How much oil does the BMW M40B16 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the BMW M40B16 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW M40B16 uses a timing belt.
Is the BMW M40B16 turbocharged?
No, the BMW M40B16 is naturally aspirated.
Does the BMW M40B16 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the BMW M40B16 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the BMW M40B16 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW M40B16 is ~275 000 km with proper maintenance.
What cars was the BMW M40B16 installed on?
BMW 3-Series E30 in 1988 - 1994, 3-Series E36 in 1990 - 1994; Bertone Freeclimber 2 in 1992 - 1993.
What are the common problems of the BMW M40B16?
The most famous engine problem in the accelerated development of the camshaft cams. The timing belt with a roller needs to be replaced every 40,000 km; if it breaks, the valves bend. All known problems.
What engines are related to the BMW M40B16?
M40 family: M40B18.
