The BMW N43 B16 AA is a 1,592 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2011. It featured dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and BMW's Valvetronic III system with double VANOS variable valve timing. In standard tune, it delivered 100 kW (136 PS) and 170 Nm of torque, offering smooth throttle response and refinement for compact applications.
Fitted to entry-level models including the E81 1 Series and E87 1 Series, the N43 B16 AA was engineered for everyday drivability and low emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, which could lead to lean-running conditions or engine stalling. This issue, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 01 12, is attributed to mechanical wear under sustained high load and inadequate lubrication. In 2009, BMW introduced a revised HPFP with improved internal components and enhanced oil flow design.
Production years 2007–2011 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3455).
The BMW N43 B16 AA is a 1,592 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact platforms (2007–2011). It combines Valvetronic III with double VANOS to deliver precise throttle control and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances efficiency with responsiveness in BMW's entry-level petrol strategy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,592 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) @ 6,100 rpm | |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The N43 B16 AA provides smooth, responsive performance ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals to prevent HPFP and Valvetronic system degradation. BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection for the direct injection system. Oil should be changed every 12,000 km or annually to maintain lubrication integrity. The high-pressure fuel system demands use of high-octane fuel (RON 98) to prevent pre-ignition and carbon buildup. Post-2009 models with revised HPFP show significantly improved durability; pre-2009 units should verify pump condition and consider preventative upgrades per BMW SIB 13 01 12.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 13 01 12). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all N43 B16 AA models (2007–2011) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3455).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (RON 95–98).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A29010, A29011, A29012, SIB 13 01 12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3455)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW N43 B16 AA was used across BMW's E81/E87 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the E87 and revised intake manifolds in the E81-and from 2009 the updated high-pressure fuel pump with improved internal components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front-right side of the engine block near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A29010). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for N43 series). Pre-2009 models have silver valve covers with "N43" branding; post-2009 units use black valve covers with "N43B16AA" designation. Critical differentiation from N43TÜ: Original N43 B16 AA lacks secondary air injection system; N43TÜ includes air pump for emissions. Service parts require production date verification - high-pressure fuel pumps before 09/2009 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (BMW SIB 13 01 12).
The N43 B16 AA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal BMW quality reports from 2012 indicated a significant number of pre-2009 units required pump replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel system faults as a top cause of drivability complaints in E81/E87 petrol models. Extended service intervals and use of low-octane fuel increase thermal stress, making fuel quality and schedule adherence critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2007-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2016). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N43B16AA.
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