The 1.6-liter Mini Cooper N12B16A engine was assembled at a factory in England from 2006 to 2010 and installed on the mass versions of the Mini in the back of the R56, as well as the Clubman station wagon in the back of the R55. A similar power unit was installed on Peugeot-Citroen cars under its EP6 index.
Prince-series family: N12B14A, N12B16A, N16B16A, N14B16A, N14B16C, N18B16A, N18B16C.
Specifications
| Production years | 2006-2010 |
| Displacement, cc | 1598 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 90 (One) 120 (Cooper) |
| Torque output, Nm | 150 (One) 160 (Cooper) |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 77 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 85.8 |
| Compression ratio | 11.0 |
| Features | DOHC, Valvetronic |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | on both shafts |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.2 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mini Cooper 2009) — city — highway — combined |
7.8 4.6 5.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~230 000 |
| Weight, kg | 115 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mini Cabrio R57 in 2009 – 2010;
- Mini Clubman R55 in 2007 – 2010;
- Mini Hatch R56 in 2006 – 2010.
Disadvantages of the Mini N12B16A engine
- The main problem of these power units is oil burn and intake coking.
- A rather modest resource here is the timing chain and especially its tensioner.
- Also, the Valvetronic system and Vanos-type phase regulators serve relatively little.
- All engines of this family are famous for regular oil and antifreeze leaks.
- The weak points of such motors include a thermostat, a water pump and lambda probes.
Frequently asked questions about the Mini N12B16A
How much power does the Mini N12B16A make?
Power output of the Mini N12B16A, hp: 90 (One); 120 (Cooper). Torque, Nm: 150 (One); 160 (Cooper).
How much oil does the Mini N12B16A take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.2 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mini N12B16A have a timing belt or chain?
The Mini N12B16A uses a timing chain.
Is the Mini N12B16A turbocharged?
No, the Mini N12B16A is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mini N12B16A need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Mini N12B16A has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Mini N12B16A last?
The typical lifespan of the Mini N12B16A is ~230 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mini N12B16A?
Mini Cooper 2009: city 7.8, highway 4.6, combined 5.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mini N12B16A installed on?
Mini Cabrio R57 in 2009 - 2010; Mini Clubman R55 in 2007 - 2010; Mini Hatch R56 in 2006 - 2010.
What are the common problems of the Mini N12B16A?
The main problem of these power units is oil burn and intake coking. A rather modest resource here is the timing chain and especially its tensioner. All known problems.
