The 1.2-liter Mini One B38A12A turbo engine was produced by the company from 2014 to 2017 and was installed on the base versions of the third generation Mini models in the back of the F55, F56 and F57. This is the only power unit from the B38 family that was not installed on BMW cars.
B38/B48-series family: B38A12A, B38A15A, B48A20A, B48A20B.
Specifications
| Production years | 2014-2017 |
| Displacement, cc | 1198 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 75 (One First) 102 (One) |
| Torque output, Nm | 150 (One First) 180 (One) |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R3 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 78 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83.6 |
| Compression ratio | 11.0 |
| Features | Valvetronic |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | on both shafts |
| Turbocharging | Continental 7633795 |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.25 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 6 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mini One First 2015) — city — highway — combined |
6.4 4.2 5.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 128 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mini Cabrio 3 (F57) in 2016 – 2017;
- Mini Hatch F55 in 2014 – 2017, Hatch 3 (F56) in 2014 – 2017.
Disadvantages of the Mini B38A12A engine
- So far, the main complaints are related to the vagaries of direct injection and soot on the valves;
- The weak point of the engine is the thermal module, which here replaces the thermostat;
- Periodically, problems are thrown up by Vanos phase regulators or the Valvetronic system;
- Sometimes the thrust bearing is destroyed due to the large axial clearance on the crankshaft.
Frequently asked questions about the Mini B38A12A
How much power does the Mini B38A12A make?
Power output of the Mini B38A12A, hp: 75 (One First); 102 (One). Torque, Nm: 150 (One First); 180 (One).
How much oil does the Mini B38A12A take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.25 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mini B38A12A have a timing belt or chain?
The Mini B38A12A uses a timing chain.
Is the Mini B38A12A turbocharged?
Yes, the Mini B38A12A is turbocharged (Continental 7633795).
Does the Mini B38A12A need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Mini B38A12A has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Mini B38A12A last?
The typical lifespan of the Mini B38A12A is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mini B38A12A?
Mini One First 2015: city 6.4, highway 4.2, combined 5.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mini B38A12A installed on?
Mini Cabrio 3 (F57) in 2016 - 2017; Mini Hatch F55 in 2014 - 2017, Hatch 3 (F56) in 2014 - 2017.
What are the common problems of the Mini B38A12A?
So far, the main complaints are related to the vagaries of direct injection and soot on the valves. The weak point of the engine is the thermal module, which here replaces the thermostat. All known problems.
