The 1.6-liter BMW N40 (N40B16) was built in Britain from 2001 to 2005 for the 316i, 316Ci and 316ti of the E46 3-Series in some European countries. It was intended for markets with tax benefits for small engines: it is essentially an N42 without Valvetronic, producing 116 hp and 150 Nm.
Specifications
| Production years | 2001-2005 |
| Displacement, cc | 1596 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 116 |
| Torque output, Nm | 150 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84.0 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 72.0 |
| Compression ratio | 10.2 |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | double VANOS |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for BMW 316ti 2003) — city — highway — combined |
9.8 5.3 6.9 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~120 000 |
| Weight, kg | 132 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW 3-Series E46 in 2001 – 2005;
- BMW 3-Series Compact E46 in 2001 – 2004.
Disadvantages of the BMW N40 engine
- The timing chain stretches after about 100,000 km, and its tensioner often lasts half as long; overheating makes the plastic guides break and fall into the sump;
- Overheating also hardens the valve stem seals, leading to oil consumption of over a liter per 1,000 km at high mileage; the crankcase ventilation membrane also has a short life;
- The many seals of the Double VANOS hydraulics often leak before 100,000 km;
- Oil leaks from the valve cover, oil filter housing and vacuum pump are common.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW N40
How much power does the BMW N40 make?
The BMW N40 develops 116 hp and 150 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the BMW N40 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the BMW N40 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW N40 uses a timing chain.
Is the BMW N40 turbocharged?
No, the BMW N40 is naturally aspirated.
Does the BMW N40 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the BMW N40 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the BMW N40 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW N40 is ~120 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the BMW N40?
BMW 316ti 2003: city 9.8, highway 5.3, combined 6.9 L/100 km.
What cars was the BMW N40 installed on?
BMW 3-Series E46 in 2001 - 2005; BMW 3-Series Compact E46 in 2001 - 2004.
What are the common problems of the BMW N40?
The timing chain stretches after about 100,000 km, and its tensioner often lasts half as long; overheating makes the plastic guides break and fall into the sump. Overheating also hardens the valve stem seals, leading to oil consumption of over a liter per 1,000 km at high mileage; the crankcase ventilation membrane also has a short life. All known problems.
