The 4-cylinder N20B20 turbo engine began to be installed on BMW cars in 2011. The engine replaced the N53B25 and N53B30 units. The block of the new motor is made of aluminum alloy and contains two balance shafts. Steel-coated engine cylinders, forged crankshaft with four offset counterweights, 144.35mm long cranks.
The cylinder head of the engine is similar to the N55, with composite camshafts and TVDI direct fuel injection, contains the Valvetronic 3 and Double-Vanos system.
N20 family: N20B16, N20B20.
Specifications
| Production years | 2011-2018 |
| Displacement, cc | 1997 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 156/5000 184/5000 218/5500 245/5000 |
| Torque output, Nm | 240 270 310 350 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 90.1 |
| Compression ratio | 10 – 11 |
| Features | Valvetronic III |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | double VANOS |
| Turbocharging | twin-scroll |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 5/6 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for 320i F30) — city — highway — combined |
8.8 5.6 6.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~220 000 |
| Weight, kg | 157 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW 3-Series F30 in 2011 – 2016;
- BMW 5-Series F10 in 2011 – 2016;
- BMW X1 E84 in 2011 – 2015;
- BMW X3 F25 in 2011 – 2017;
- BMW Z4 E89 in 2011 – 2016;
- BMW 1-Series F20 in 2012 – 2017;
- BMW 3-Series GT F34 in 2013 – 2016;
- BMW 2-Series F22 in 2014 – 2016;
- BMW 4-Series F32 in 2014 – 2016;
- BMW X4 F26 in 2014 – 2017;
- BMW X5 F15 in 2016 – 2018 (xDrive40e).
Disadvantages of the N20B20 engine
Malfunctions in the BMW N20B20 engine are the appearance of vibrations, increased fuel consumption and floating speed.
- The main cause of unit vibrations is dirty injectors. In most cases, the problem is resolved quickly.
- If the speed is floating, the condition of the idle valve and throttle valve should be inspected – they can become very dirty and cause a malfunction in the operation of the power unit.
- When there is an increase in fuel consumption, the problem may be hidden in a malfunction of the air mass meter. This is one of the main reasons to be ruled out in the first place.
It should be borne in mind that when operating the BMW N20B20 engine, it is better not to save on working fluids. It is advisable to fill up with high-quality gasoline and oil recommended by BMW. With regular diagnostics and maintenance, the BMW N20B20 engine will work reliably.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW N20B20
How much power does the BMW N20B20 make?
Power output of the BMW N20B20, hp: 156/5000; 184/5000; 218/5500; 245/5000. Torque, Nm: 240; 270; 310; 350.
How much oil does the BMW N20B20 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the BMW N20B20 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW N20B20 uses a timing chain.
Is the BMW N20B20 turbocharged?
Yes, the BMW N20B20 is turbocharged (twin-scroll).
Does the BMW N20B20 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the BMW N20B20 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the BMW N20B20 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW N20B20 is ~220 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the BMW N20B20?
320i F30: city 8.8, highway 5.6, combined 6.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the BMW N20B20 installed on?
BMW 3-Series F30 in 2011 - 2016; BMW 5-Series F10 in 2011 - 2016; BMW X1 E84 in 2011 - 2015; BMW X3 F25 in 2011 - 2017; BMW Z4 E89 in 2011 - 2016; BMW 1-Series F20 in 2012 - 2017 and 5 more (see the full list above).
What engines are related to the BMW N20B20?
N20 family: N20B16.
