This 2.0 turbo BMW N20 4 cylinder engine was developed in 2011 to serve to replace N53, a 3.0L 6-cylinder N53. Since then, during the production period from 2011-to 2017 The N20 engine has proven its reliability as a turbo engine, with only some imperfections.

The most frequent problems with the reliability of the BMW N20 engine

Overall all, this BMW N20 is a very robust drivetrain that has no bmw n20 engine problems. However the turbocharged engines in general are more complicated, so there is a greater chance of problems occurring. Of course, they have typical issues that can arise for every other type of engine.

Timing Chain problems

As with other BMW engine models The timing chain serves as the weakest link of the engine. This issue was resolved for N20 engines made after the year 2015. In the event that your vehicle was built before 2015 it is a higher chance that you could be affected by a timing chain issue.

In the average, if you’re not covered by warranty on your car, fixing timing chain parts could cost around $1,500 if consult an expert mechanic. If you’re a DIY-er then you could complete the work yourself for about $500 that’s the price of the parts. The problem is most often seen in vehicles that have driven longer than 50,000 miles.

The signs of a broken timing chain

The most frequent symptoms the assistance of which you’ll be able to determine if there is a failure of your timing chain are:

Noisy whining sounds coming made by engines of your vehicle. (These are more pronounced when you accelerate).

Too much slack.

Marks, scratches or damage to the chain.

Problems with gaskets in the housings of oil filters

This could be the second most frequently-reported problem with N20 engines. The gasket and valve cover are both rubber parts which are very prone for wear and tear due to the time and use on the part of your vehicle. They crack over time, which results in damage and leaks of oil. Repairs can cost anything between $100 and $500 based on the labor and parts expenses. This is usually the case within 5 to six years of ownership, or at least 60,000 miles. Certain vehicles will last until 100,000 miles before they begin to experience gasket issues.

The most common symptoms

The most typical sign to detect oil filter issues is leaks of oil under the cover for the engine to the left of your car’s engine. The reason to focus on the left side is due to the normal tilt of engines in the N20 to the left.

Valve Cover

If you see visible oil leaks, notice smoke or detect burning smells. You may be experiencing issues in the cover on the N20 engine. The turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is equipped with an gasket for the valve cover made of rubber. And a valve cover made of plastic and both are prone to break down over long period of time. With the force of heating up the engine, the two components start to break and, when they do, they’ll tend to leak the oil.

The symptoms are similar to those of the gaskets for the housing of the oil filter as they are both related. Repairs can cost as much as $400 in the average. The issue is likely to occur on vehicles that have been driven for over 50k miles.

How do you properly maintain an BMW N20 engine

All engines must undergo routine maintenance procedures such as the servicing of ignition components as well as fluid replacements. The ignition and spark plug coils are among (bmw b48 reliability) the first components that comprise your N20 engine that you must carefully be watching.

Spark coils and plugs for ignition

Both play an important role in gasoline engines since. They’re the main components responsible for the fuel air mixture and also for the power. If they’re worn and tear as a result of their age as well as mileage may eventually stop functioning according to your preferences and begin slowing down.

You’re driving an old N20 engine The spark plugs must be replaced every 50,000 to 65,000 miles. If you’re running an engine that has been modified, you are advised to change them every 20,000-25,000 miles intervals.

The ignition coils on your engine perform best when changed every 60,000 to 70,000 miles. Both of these parts are inexpensive and need to be observed carefully. Spark plugs cost $60 each and can cost between $130 and $150 to fix by an auto mechanic, whereas the ignition coils are more expensive. Costing about $150 and $250plus with labor.

N20 Engine oil

Newer N20 engines are required to change their oil at least every 10,000 miles. In the case of older N20 engines the recommended interval for changing oil is between 5,000 and 8000 miles. Make sure to check the owner’s guide before changing your oil to ensure it has the correct viscosity level. The ideal oil to use for on an N20 engine is 5w-30 or 5w-40.