The BMW M44B19 engine is a 4-cylinder engine that replaced the M42B18 engine and was produced from 1996 to 2001. This power unit has taken a leading position in the BMW four-cylinder engine program and compared to the M42, many design changes have been made on the M44 both in the engine itself, in the control system and in the outlet system.
In this engine, the cylinder diameter was increased to 85 mm and new pistons were used, a new crankshaft with a stroke of 83.5 was installed, and connecting rods were lightened.
All this is covered with a new cylinder head, with a redesigned valve drive. The hydraulic lifters remained, the diameter of the intake / exhaust valves remained the same (33 / 30.5 mm). Characteristics of standard M44 camshafts: phase 240/244, lift 9.7 / 9.7. The pump was improved, from now on it stopped flowing. The intake was completely redesigned, the intake manifold received a DISA length change system. The engine management system has been replaced with Bosch DME M5.2.
Specifications
| Production years | 1996-2001 Munich Plant |
| Displacement, cc | 1895 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 140 /6000 rpm |
| Torque output, Nm | 180 /4300 rpm |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 85 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83.5 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 0W-30 / 0W-40 / 5W-30 / 5W-40 / 10W-40 / 15W-50 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for 318is E36) — city — highway — combined |
11.0 6.1 8.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW 3-Series E36 in 1996 – 2000;
- BMW Z3 E36/7 in 1996 – 1999.
Disadvantages of the M44B19 engine
- Knock in the motor. The main reason for the problem so characteristic of the M44 lies in a worn camshaft or hydraulic lifters and rocker arms.
- RPM fluctuation. It is necessary to diagnose the mass air flow sensor air duct for cracks and depressurization. You also need to check the mass air flow sensor itself, idle valve, throttle and lambda probe. In addition to all this, the problem may be hidden in the deterioration of the camshaft rotation.
- Loss of power during acceleration. The reason is clogged nozzles. They need to be cleaned.
- Increase in operating temperature. First of all, you need to check the radiator, thermostat, pump, cooling system and its plastic pipes for air congestion.
- No ignition. Take a look at the fuel pump, ignition coil, overvoltage conductors and spark plugs.
It must be remembered that the timing belts on the M44 are not very reliable. In addition, the age of the unit is already decent. Although the motor itself is quite stable and has a resource of 300 thousand km or more. However, today there is not a single copy that would not have reached this mark, and therefore, alas, there will be no absolutely problem-free operation.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW M44B19
How much power does the BMW M44B19 make?
Power output of the BMW M44B19, hp: 140 /6000 rpm. Torque, Nm: 180 /4300 rpm.
How much oil does the BMW M44B19 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.0 liters. Recommended oil: 0W-30 / 0W-40 / 5W-30 / 5W-40 / 10W-40 / 15W-50.
Does the BMW M44B19 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW M44B19 uses a timing belt.
Is the BMW M44B19 turbocharged?
No, the BMW M44B19 is naturally aspirated.
Does the BMW M44B19 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the BMW M44B19 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the BMW M44B19 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW M44B19 is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the BMW M44B19?
318is E36: city 11.0, highway 6.1, combined 8.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the BMW M44B19 installed on?
BMW 3-Series E36 in 1996 - 2000; BMW Z3 E36/7 in 1996 - 1999.






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