The BMW N20B20D is a 1,997 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2015. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), Valvetronic III variable valve lift, and direct fuel injection (High Precision Injection). In standard form it delivered 135 kW (184 PS) at 5,000 rpm and 270 Nm of torque at 1,250–4,500 rpm, offering responsive performance with strong low-end pulling power.
Fitted to models such as the F20 1 Series, F30 3 Series, and F25 X3, the N20B20D was engineered for balanced driving dynamics, combining efficiency with sporty responsiveness. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and secondary air injection, enabling Euro 5 certification for all production models.
One documented update occurred in 2013 when BMW revised the high-pressure fuel pump control algorithm and updated the water pump design to address premature wear. This change, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 08 13, reduced instances of coolant leaks and improved long-term reliability in high-mileage applications.
Production years 2011–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2020).
The BMW N20B20D is a 1,997 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2011–2015). It combines DOHC architecture with TwinPower Turbo technology, Valvetronic III, and direct fuel injection to deliver strong low-RPM torque and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with refinement in a lightweight aluminium construction.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.1 mm | |
| Power output | 135 kW (184 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1,250–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High Precision Injection (direct fuel injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, all-aluminium construction | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbocharger (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Double roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 155 kg |
The turbocharged inline-four design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for daily driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain Valvetronic system longevity. BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its formulation protecting the high-pressure fuel pump and eccentric shaft mechanism. The revised 2013 water pump (SIB 11 08 13) eliminated the plastic impeller design prone to failure. Carbon buildup on intake valves is common due to lack of port injection, necessitating periodic walnut blasting. Secondary air injection pumps, used for cold-start emissions, may fail over time and require replacement per TIS guidelines.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 04 01). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all N20B20D production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2020).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across model applications (BMW TIS Doc. A32100).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32100, A32510, SIB 11 08 13
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2020)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW N20B20D was used across BMW's F20/F30/F25 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the F25 and revised cooling routing in the F30-and from 2013 the facelifted F30 LCI models adopted the updated water pump and fuel calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A32100). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for N20 series). Pre-2013 units have silver valve covers with "N20" engraving; post-2013 units use black valve covers with updated water pump. Critical differentiation from N26: N20B20D uses Valvetronic III with double-VANOS and direct injection, while N26 (high-pressure variant) features revised fuel system for higher output. Service parts require production date verification—pre- and post-2013 water pumps are not interchangeable due to impeller material revision (BMW SIB 11 08 13).
The N20B20D's primary reliability risk is water pump failure and Valvetronic system faults, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding 100,000 km. Internal BMW quality reports from 2014 indicated a notable number of coolant-related driveability complaints, while VCA field data shows improved longevity in UK-sourced examples due to adherence to service schedules. Use of BMW-approved coolant and timely maintenance make water pump and Valvetronic motor integrity critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2011-2015) and UK VCA failure statistics (2013-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N20B20D.
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