BMW B46B20 engine: specs, problems and prices

The B46B20 is a 2.0 L petrol inline-4 from BMW's B46 family, built 2015–2026 and rated at 258 hp and 400 Nm. It powered the BMW F30 330i SULEV, BMW G30 530i SULEV and BMW G01 X3 30i.

This guide is about the B46B20 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other B46 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our B48 and B46 guide.

• Capacity and layout: 2.0 L, inline-4, turbocharged
• Output: 258 hp and 400 Nm
• Production: 2015–2026
• Fitted to: 3 models across 3 chassis generations
• In our stock: ask the desk for the next arrival

B46B20 specifications

The B46B20 is a 2.0 L inline-4 petrol engine, turbocharged, rated at 258 hp and 400 Nm. BMW built it from 2015 to 2026. That is about 129 hp and 200 Nm per litre, a high specific output that reflects a performance-focused design. It was fitted to the BMW F30 330i SULEV, BMW G30 530i SULEV and BMW G01 X3 30i.

What the code B46B20 means

• 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.

Which BMW models use the B46B20

In the F30 sixth 3 Series (2011–2019), the B46B20 powered the 330i SULEV. Engines from other models fit the F30 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All F30 engines

In the G30 seventh 5 Series (2016–2023), the B46B20 powered the 530i SULEV. Engines from other models fit the G30 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All G30 engines

In the G01 third X3 (2017–2024), the B46B20 powered the X3 30i. Engines from other models fit the G01 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All G01 engines

Common B46B20 problems

The B46B20 shares its weak points with the rest of the B46 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the B48 and B46 guide.

Water pump. The water pump can leak.

B46B20 maintenance

• 0W-20 or 0W-30 BMW Longlife-17 FE+ or 01, about 5.25 litres.
• Oil every 15,000 km or yearly.
• Timing chain at the rear (gearbox end).

Will the B46B20 fit my car?

Will the B46B20 fit my BMW F30 330i SULEV?

Yes, the BMW F30 330i SULEV left the factory with the B46B20, so a B46B20 from another car is the direct replacement. 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.

Will the B46B20 fit my BMW G30 530i SULEV?

For the BMW G30 530i SULEV, the B46B20 is the factory engine and the one to order. The seventh 5 Series was built 2016–2023, 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 G30 530i SULEV?

We do not have a B46B20 on the shelf for the G30 530i 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.

Will the B46B20 fit my BMW G01 X3 30i?

For the BMW G01 X3 30i, the B46B20 is the factory engine and the one to order. The third X3 was built 2017–2024, 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 G01 X3 30i?

We do not have a B46B20 on the shelf for the G01 X3 30i 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.

B46B20 prices

We do not have a B46B20 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.

Buying a used B46B20: checklist

1. Sump, oil pickup and drive variants. Rear-drive, xDrive and front-drive cars can use different sumps, oil pickups and engine mounts even with the same engine code. Check that the sump matches your subframe and front axle.
2. Confirm the exact engine code. Read the code stamped on the block and compare it with the code for your car. Send us the last seven characters of the VIN and we confirm the match before anything is paid.
3. List of what is fitted. Engines are sold with different ancillaries: some have the turbo, injectors, manifolds, alternator and starter, others are long blocks. Agree the list in writing so you know which parts must come from your old engine.
4. 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.
5. Ask how the donor car was damaged. Most good used engines come from cars with body damage. A front-end impact can crack sensors, the timing cover or the sump; a rear or side impact usually leaves the engine untouched. The yard records the damage on each unit.
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.

Questions about the B46B20

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

Will the B46B20 engine fit my BMW F48 X1 xDrive25i?

Yes, if your BMW F48 X1 xDrive25i was built with the B46B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,998 cc) petrol engine with 170 kW (231 HP) in the F48 X1 xDrive25i from about 2015 to 2023.

In our records the B46B20 is the engine for the F48 X1 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

Is the BMW B46B20 a diesel or petrol engine?

The B46B20 is a petrol engine. It is a 2.0 liter (1,998 cc) inline 4, DOHC, 16 valve unit with a twin-scroll turbocharger, and it was built to the Euro 6 emission standard.

The emission standard matters for registration and for low-emission zones in many cities. When you replace an engine with the same code, the car keeps the same paperwork and the same emission class.

Petrol versions need the correct catalytic converters and oxygen sensors on the car to stay legal and to keep the engine computer happy. Reuse the parts from your car if they are in good condition.

If you are not sure which version you need, send us your VIN. We tell you the right code for free.

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

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 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

What comes with a used B46B20 engine?

Each B46B20 is sold as described on its own listing. The yard writes down the parts that are fitted to that unit, such as the turbo, the injectors, the manifolds or the alternator, so you know what arrives.

Some units are long engines with few ancillaries, others are more complete. If you need a part that is not listed, ask the desk. We often have the matching items in the yard.

Every engine is drained, sealed at each opening, strapped to a heat-treated pallet and shrink-wrapped, then photographed before it leaves the yard.

On delivery, the carrier brings the pallet to the kerb or a loading bay. Please have a forklift, a pallet truck or an engine crane ready.

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

How much power and torque does the BMW B46B20 have?

From the factory the BMW B46B20 makes 170 kW (231 HP) and 350 Nm of torque. It is a 2.0 liter (1,998 cc) inline 4, DOHC, 16 valve petrol engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger.

Because it is turbocharged, the torque comes in low in the rev range, which makes the car feel strong in everyday driving. A healthy turbo, a clean intercooler and tight boost pipes are key to getting the full figure.

A used engine reaches its factory numbers when it is fitted with the matching engine computer and software, and serviced with the right oil and filters. If the engine computer from your car is a different version, a specialist may need to code it.

Every B46B20 on our site lists its year and mileage. You can ask for extra photos, a close-up of the code stamp or a short video before you order.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

Can you check if a B46B20 fits my car with my VIN?

Yes, and it is free. Send the 17-character VIN of your car and, if you have it, the gearbox code. We check the engine family, the build year window and the parts your car needs.

For the B46B20, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW F48 X1 xDrive25i, BMW F39 X2 xDrive25i, BMW F45 225i and BMW U11 X1 xDrive23i.

We only reserve an engine once the match is confirmed, so you never pay for the wrong unit. You can reach the Hamburg desk by email at autowerkeengines@gmail.com, or by phone and WhatsApp on +49 15510 030835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 16:00 CET.

You can also use the VIN check on our site. It reads the year, the make, the model and the engine from the public vehicle register.

See all B46 Engines · Search B46B20 in the shop

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

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

Will the B46B20 engine fit my BMW U11 X1 xDrive23i?

Yes, if your BMW U11 X1 xDrive23i was built with the B46B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,998 cc) petrol engine with 170 kW (231 HP) in the U11 X1 xDrive23i from about 2015 to 2023.

In our records the B46B20 is the engine for the U11 X1 xDrive23i, 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

How much is a replacement B46B20 engine for a BMW F45 225i?

A used B46B20 for the BMW F45 225i 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 long does delivery of a B46B20 engine take?

Orders confirmed before 14:00 CET on a working day leave Hamburg the same day. Later and weekend orders leave the next working day. Delivery to the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, Luxembourg and Denmark takes 1 to 3 working days.

Spain, Italy, Portugal, Poland, Czechia, Austria, Ireland, the Nordics and the Baltics take 2 to 5 working days. Greek and Spanish islands, Malta, Cyprus and remote areas take 4 to 8 working days. The UK and other countries outside the EU are quoted one by one.

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. Every engine is drained, sealed at each opening, strapped to a heat-treated pallet and shrink-wrapped, then photographed before it leaves the yard.

You get a tracking number when the pallet is collected. Check the wrapping before you sign, and note any damage on the paperwork.

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

Will the B46B20 engine fit my BMW F45 225i?

Yes, if your BMW F45 225i was built with the B46B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,998 cc) petrol engine with 170 kW (231 HP) in the F45 225i from about 2015 to 2023.

In our records the B46B20 is the engine for the F45 225i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.

Also tell us if your F45 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.

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

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

What is the BMW B46B20 engine?

The BMW B46B20 is a 2.0 liter (1,998 cc) petrol engine from the B46 family. It has an inline 4, DOHC, 16 valve layout with a twin-scroll turbocharger, and makes 170 kW (231 HP) with 350 Nm of torque. BMW built it from 2015 to 2023 and it meets the Euro 6 emission standard.

You find the B46B20 in the BMW F48 X1 xDrive25i, BMW F39 X2 xDrive25i, BMW F45 225i and BMW U11 X1 xDrive23i. What we list: BMW B46 transverse 2.0 turbo petrol engines for X1, X2 and 2 Series Active Tourer.

At Autowerke Engines every B46B20 is a real used engine from our yard in Hamburg. Each engine in the yard is inspected in Hamburg. The code is matched to the listing, the parts on the engine are recorded, the openings are sealed and the real unit is photographed. Each listing shows the year, the mileage and the price, so you can compare units side by side.

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

Delivery, warranty and payment

Before a B46B20 leaves our Hamburg yard it is drained of oil and coolant, every opening is sealed, and it is strapped to a pallet and wrapped. We send photographs of the packed unit and the tracking details.

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.

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