BMW 330i SULEV (F30) engine: which one, problems and replacement

The BMW 330i SULEV in the sixth 3 Series generation (F30, built 2011–2019) was built with one engine, the B46B20: a 2.0 L petrol inline-4 with 258 hp.

Below you will find how to identify the engine in your 330i SULEV, the faults to look for, current prices for a replacement and the swap options that make sense.

• Generation: sixth 3 Series, 2011–2019
• Body styles: F30 (saloon)
• Engines: B46B20
• Output: 258 hp
• Replacement engines in stock: ask the desk for the next arrival

Which engine is in your 330i SULEV?

B46B20 in the 330i SULEV

The B46B20 was used in the F30 330i SULEV, built 2015–2026. It is a 2.0 L turbocharged petrol inline-4 with 258 hp and 400 Nm.

Reading the code: B marks a B-series code, BMW's modular engine family introduced from 2013 with 500 cc per cylinder; 46 is the family number; B stands for petrol, longitudinal installation for rear-drive and xDrive cars; 20 is the capacity in decilitres, so 2.0 litres.

330i SULEV engines by model year

The 330i SULEV kept the same engine for the whole F30 run, which makes ordering simple: any unit with the same code fits, subject to the gearbox, drive type and sump.

Other cars with the same engine as the 330i SULEV

A replacement engine does not have to come from another 330i SULEV. These models left the factory with the same engine code, so a unit from any of them is a candidate donor once the sump, mounts and ancillaries are matched to your car.

B46B20: BMW G30 530i SULEV, BMW G01 X3 30i.

How to confirm your engine code

The 330i SULEV only used the B46B20, but the exact version can still change with the build date, gearbox and market. Send us the last seven characters of the VIN and we read the engine code from BMW's records, or look for the code stamped on the block. How to find your BMW engine code.

Known 330i SULEV engine problems

The B46B20 in the 330i SULEV shares the known weak points of the B48 and B46 family. Full B48 and B46 guide.

Coolant leaks. Thermostat housings and coolant pipes leak.

Oil filter housing gasket. Leaks at higher mileage.

PCV and valve cover. Valve cover seals and PCV parts fail.

Water pump. The water pump can leak.

Symptoms to watch for on the 330i SULEV

Rattle for a few seconds after a cold start. The classic sign of a weak timing chain tensioner or stretched chain. It must be checked quickly: a chain that jumps a tooth can bend valves.

Rattle or whine from the gearbox end. On engines with the timing chain at the rear, a rattle or whine from the back of the engine is the warning sign of chain stretch or guide wear.

Whistle, loss of boost or limp mode. A split charge pipe, a sticking wastegate or worn turbo bearings. Check the pipes first, then the turbo shaft for play.

Poor low-down torque and uneven idle. VANOS seals or solenoids. The engine may run well at high revs but feel flat and lumpy at low speed.

Limp mode with a Valvetronic fault. The Valvetronic motor, its eccentric shaft sensor or the wiring. The engine runs on a reduced throttle until it is repaired.

Long cranking before the engine starts. On direct-injection engines, a weak high-pressure fuel pump or leaking injector lets pressure drop when the engine is off.

Looking after the 330i SULEV engine

• Oil: 0W-20 or 0W-30 BMW Longlife-17 FE+ or 01, about 5.25 litres.
• Service interval: Oil every 15,000 km or yearly.
• Timing drive: Timing chain at the rear (gearbox end).
• Workshop notes: Check front-drive (B48A) or rear-drive (B48B) before ordering.

Buying a used engine for the 330i SULEV: checklist

1. Photographs from every side. Good suppliers photograph the actual engine you will receive. Look for the block stamp, the sump, the timing cover and any broken brackets or connectors in the pictures.
2. Warranty terms in writing. Read what the warranty covers, how long it runs and what fitting conditions apply. Most warranties require a qualified workshop, new fluids and filters, and replacement of the cooling parts that caused the original failure.
3. Look at the oil and coolant. Clean oil without metal particles and coolant without oil are good signs. Milky oil, oily coolant or a burnt smell mean the engine needs further checks before it is fitted.
4. Gearbox and flywheel match. Manual and automatic engines differ at the flywheel or flexplate, and sometimes at the crankshaft spigot. Make sure the engine you buy matches your gearbox or that you transfer the right parts.
5. Compression or leak-down figures. Even compression across all cylinders tells you more than mileage. Ask for the figures, not just a pass or fail, and compare the highest and lowest readings: a spread above 10 to 15 percent deserves a question.
6. Turbocharger shaft play and oil. Rotate the compressor wheel by hand. A small amount of side play is normal; in-and-out play or wheel contact with the housing is not. Oil pooled in the intake or intercooler pipes points to worn seals.
7. Timing chain noise. Listen for a rattle at the front of the engine for the first seconds after a cold start. On an engine that cannot be run, look at the chain guides through the oil filler or with the valve cover off.
8. Gearbox-end timing chain. On this engine the timing chain sits at the gearbox end, so replacing it normally means removing the engine. If the chain has not been replaced, the time to do it is before the engine goes into your car.
9. VANOS operation. Rough idle, a rattle from the front of the head and a loss of torque at low revs point to VANOS seals or solenoids. These are serviceable parts and are easier to renew with the engine out.
10. Double VANOS units and solenoids. Ask for the adaptation values or fault history if the engine was running. Solenoids are inexpensive and are often replaced as a matter of course on a used engine.
11. Valvetronic motor and eccentric shaft sensor. The Valvetronic motor and its sensor cause limp-mode faults when they fail. Inspect the connector and the seal around the motor for oil.
12. Injectors and high-pressure fuel pump. Direct-injection engines rely on high-pressure pumps and precise injectors. Ask whether the injectors are original or updated and whether there were fuel pressure faults.

BMW 330i SULEV replacement engine cost

We do not have a 330i SULEV engine on the shelf at the moment. Send us your VIN or the code you need and the desk will tell you when the next unit arrives and what it will cost.

On top of the engine, budget for the workshop's labour and the parts that are best replaced while the engine is out: engine mounts, the rear main seal, cooling parts, a clutch or converter seal, fluids and filters.

Will it fit my 330i SULEV?

Will the B46B20 fit my BMW F30 330i SULEV?

For the BMW F30 330i SULEV, the B46B20 is the factory engine and the one to order. The sixth 3 Series was built 2011–2019, and the B46B20 was produced 2015–2026, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.

How much is a replacement engine for a BMW F30 330i SULEV?

We do not have a B46B20 on the shelf for the F30 330i SULEV at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.

Engine swaps and upgrades for the 330i SULEV

These engines were fitted to other versions of the F30 at the factory, which makes them the most practical upgrades: the body was designed around them and many parts are shared.

Can I fit the N55B30 in my 330i SULEV?

It is a conversion rather than a replacement: the N55B30 is an inline-6 and your B46B20 an inline-4, so mounts, sump, cooling, exhaust, wiring and the engine control unit all change. The gain is 48 hp and 0 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe an engine swap must be inspected and registered.

Can I fit the N55B30T0 in my 330i SULEV?

It is a conversion rather than a replacement: the N55B30T0 is an inline-6 and your B46B20 an inline-4, so mounts, sump, cooling, exhaust, wiring and the engine control unit all change. The gain is 48 hp and 0 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe an engine swap must be inspected and registered.

Can I fit the N55B30O0 in my 330i SULEV?

It is a conversion rather than a replacement: the N55B30O0 is an inline-6 and your B46B20 an inline-4, so mounts, sump, cooling, exhaust, wiring and the engine control unit all change. The gain is 68 hp and 50 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe an engine swap must be inspected and registered.

Fitting a replacement engine in the 330i SULEV

1. Inspect or replace the timing chain parts. Look at the guides and tensioner. On high-mileage engines, replacing them now costs far less than doing it later.
2. Replace the rear timing chain if in doubt. On engines with the chain at the gearbox end, chain work needs the engine out. If the history is unknown, replace the chain, guides and tensioner before fitting.
3. Prepare the turbo. Fit new oil feed and return seals, clean the intercooler and pipes of any oil or debris from the old engine, and prime the turbo with oil before starting.
4. Reset VANOS adaptations. Clear the VANOS adaptations so the ECU learns the camshaft positions of the new engine.
5. Teach the Valvetronic limit stops. Run the Valvetronic learning routine so the ECU knows the eccentric shaft limits.
6. Fill with the right oil and prime it. Fill with new oil of the correct specification and a new filter. Crank with the fuel and ignition disabled until oil pressure builds.
7. Coding and adaptations. On modern BMWs, the engine ECU must be matched to the car's immobiliser (CAS, FEM or BDC). Reset adaptations, register the battery and clear faults with diagnostic software.
8. First start and leak check. Start the engine, let it idle and watch oil pressure, temperature and fault codes. Check for leaks and bleed the cooling system.
9. First 1,000 km. Drive gently for the first few hundred kilometres, vary the engine speed and avoid full load. Change the oil and filter after about 1,000 km to remove any assembly debris.

The full fitting and first-start procedure.

330i SULEV engine questions

How much is a replacement B46B20 engine for a BMW F39 X2 xDrive25i?

A used B46B20 for the BMW F39 X2 xDrive25i costs from about 2.150 € to 3.450 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.

Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.

A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The B46B20 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.

Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

Are there other versions of the BMW B46B20?

In our yard the B46B20 is the only listed version of the B46 family. It makes 170 kW (231 HP) and 350 Nm, and was built from 2015 to 2023.

Engines in one family share a basic block, but the turbo, the injection, the sensors and the engine computer can differ. A higher power version often has different pistons, a bigger turbo or a different fuel system.

This is why we ask for the exact code. Fitting a different version can work, but the wiring, the software and sometimes the gearbox must be changed to match.

Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

How much is a replacement B46B20 engine for a BMW F48 X1 xDrive25i?

A used B46B20 for the BMW F48 X1 xDrive25i costs from about 2.150 € to 3.450 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.

Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.

A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The B46B20 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.

Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

How much is a replacement B46B20 engine for a BMW U11 X1 xDrive23i?

A used B46B20 for the BMW U11 X1 xDrive23i costs from about 2.150 € to 3.450 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.

Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.

A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The B46B20 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.

Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

Does a used B46B20 engine come with a warranty?

Yes. Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop.

The warranty does not cover damage from wrong fitting, overheating, low oil, wrong fluids or fuel, engines that were opened or modified without our approval, or labour and towing costs.

To claim, send us your order number, a short description of the problem, photos or a video, and a mechanic's report if we ask for one. If the claim is approved, we repair, replace or refund the engine.

Keep the receipts for the fitting, the oil and the filters. They make any claim quick and simple.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

Which cars use the BMW B46B20 engine?

BMW fitted the B46B20 to the BMW F48 X1 xDrive25i, BMW F39 X2 xDrive25i, BMW F45 225i and BMW U11 X1 xDrive23i. These cars were built with this engine from about 2015 to 2023.

The badge on the boot is not enough to be sure. The same model name can hide two different engines, for example after a facelift or a change in emission rules. Always read the engine code stamped on the block, or look it up with your VIN.

The B46B20 is the only B46 version we list, which makes it easy to pick, but the wiring and the engine computer still need to match your car.

Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

Will the B46B20 engine fit my BMW F39 X2 xDrive25i?

Yes, if your BMW F39 X2 xDrive25i was built with the B46B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,998 cc) petrol engine with 170 kW (231 HP) in the F39 X2 xDrive25i from about 2015 to 2023.

In our records the B46B20 is the engine for the F39 X2 xDrive25i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.

Your car has all-wheel drive or is an X model, so the sump, the oil pickup and some brackets can differ from the rear-drive cars. Tell us the full model so we send the right set-up.

Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

What should I replace when I fit a used B46B20 engine?

A used engine lasts longest when it starts life in your car with fresh fluids and new seals. Fit a new oil filter and fresh oil of the grade BMW lists for this engine, and refill the coolant with the correct BMW antifreeze mix. Change the drive belt, the thermostat and the water pump seals if they look tired, because they are cheap while the engine is out. Use new gaskets for the exhaust manifold, the intake and the sump plug, and check every hose clip before the first start.

Look at the engine mounts and the clutch or the torque converter while the engine is out. Old mounts can crack a new engine's brackets, and a worn clutch is much easier to change now.

Before the first start, turn the engine over without fuel until the oil pressure light goes out. Then let it idle, check for leaks, and drive gently for the first few hundred kilometres.

The warranty asks for fitting by a qualified mechanic and the correct oil, coolant and filters. Keep your receipts in case you ever need to make a claim.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

How much does a used BMW B46B20 engine cost?

A used BMW B46B20 engine in our yard usually costs between 2.150 € and 3.450 €. The exact price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.

Our units show recorded mileage from about 22,000 km up to around 200,000 km. Lower mileage and more ancillaries mean a higher price. Each listing shows its own price, and the price you see is the price you pay. Prices include VAT for private buyers.

Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. If you order a gearbox or a second engine on the same order, the fee is still charged once.

Inside the EU there is no import duty. For the UK and other non-EU countries, import duty and local VAT are paid by the receiver, and we supply a commercial invoice.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

How do I know a used B46B20 engine is in good shape?

The photos on each listing show the actual engine, not a stock picture. The yard checks the code, records what is bolted on, and seals the openings before the engine is offered. An inspection certificate for the unit can travel with the order when you ask for it.

When you look at a listing, check the recorded mileage, the year and the photos of the ports and the stamp. Ask for photos of anything you want to see closer. You can ask for extra photos, a close-up of the code stamp or a short video before you order.

On a petrol engine like the B46B20, a careful fitter will also look at the spark plugs, the coils and the timing side before the engine goes in.

If the engine fails inside under normal use, the warranty covers you. Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

Delivery, warranty and payment

Every 330i SULEV engine we sell is drained, sealed at each opening, strapped to a heat-treated pallet and shrink-wrapped before it leaves Hamburg. You receive photographs of the packed engine and a tracking number.

Door-to-door delivery is included to the address you give at checkout. Typical delivery takes three to five working days within Germany and neighbouring countries and five to ten working days to the rest of Europe and the UK.

Every engine carries a 12-month warranty on eligible internal failure when a qualified workshop fits it with new fluids and filters. Payment is by card, bank transfer or crypto; your invoice is emailed as soon as you order.

All F30 engines · B48 and B46 engine guide · Send us your VIN