The BMW B38 A15 A is a 1,499 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2014 as part of BMW's modular engine family. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and Valvetronic III variable valve lift. In standard tune it delivers 80–100 kW (109–136 PS), with torque outputs ranging from 220–280 Nm, providing responsive urban performance and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the F56 Mini Hatch, F20 1 Series, and F40 1 Series, the B38 A15 A was engineered for compact vehicle packaging and fuel-efficient driving characteristics. Emissions compliance is achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and gasoline particulate filter (GPF), enabling Euro 6 compliance across all production years. The engine supports start-stop functionality and brake energy regeneration.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear observed in early production units, particularly under short-trip driving conditions. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 51 15, is linked to inadequate lubrication of the timing chain tensioner during cold starts. From 2018, BMW implemented revised tensioner and guide components to improve durability.
All production years 2014–present meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The BMW B38 A15 A is a 1,499 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact models (2014–present). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-scroll turbocharging to deliver responsive low-end torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances urban drivability with fuel economy and emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve with Valvetronic III | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin-scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 80–100 kW (109–136 PS) | |
| Torque | 220–280 Nm @ 1,350–3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 (including GPF) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with electric thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; wear-prone in early units) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 10,000–15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its specific formulation protecting the front-mounted chain system. Short-trip driving increases carbon buildup on intake valves; regular highway runs help mitigate this. The GPF requires periodic regeneration and can clog if short journeys dominate. Post-2018 models feature upgraded chain guides; pre-2018 units should have the tensioner upgrade per BMW SIB 11 51 15. Direct injection demands high-quality fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent injector deposits.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 51 15). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all models (2014–present) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). GPF-equipped from launch.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 100 kW output requires 98 RON fuel quality (BMW TIS Doc. A26704).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A26700, A26701, A26702, SIB 11 51 15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW B38 A15 A was used across BMW's F20/F40 and Mini's F56 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Toyota for European applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—shorter intake manifolds in the F56 and revised cooling layouts in the F40—and from 2018 the updated F40 models adopted the B38TU variant with improved chain tensioner design, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Toyota's 1.5L 1NR-FKE units to leverage shared modular design principles. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (BMW TIS A26710). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for B-series). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2018 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from B38TU: Original B38 A15 A has Bosch MSV80 ECU with rectangular diagnostic port under hood, while B38TU uses MSV90 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2018 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (BMW SIB 11 51 15).
The B38 A15 A's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal BMW quality reports from 2017 indicated a notable share of pre-2018 engines requiring chain repair before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to GPF clogging in frequently short-journey vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW B38A15A.
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