The M40B16 is a 1.6 L petrol inline-4 from BMW's M40 family, built 1987–1994 and rated at 102 hp and 141 Nm. It powered the BMW E30 316i and BMW E36 316i.
This guide is about the M40B16 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other M40 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our M40 guide.
- Capacity and layout: 1.6 L, inline-4, naturally aspirated
- Output: 102 hp and 141 Nm
- Production: 1987–1994
- Fitted to: 2 models across 2 chassis generations
- In our stock: ask the desk for the next arrival
M40B16 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | M40B16 |
| Family | M40 |
| Capacity | 1.6 L |
| Layout | Inline-4 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 102 hp |
| Torque | 141 Nm |
| Specific output | 64 hp per litre |
| Production | 1987–1994 |
| Models | 2 |
The M40B16 is a 1.6 L inline-4 petrol engine, naturally aspirated, rated at 102 hp and 141 Nm. BMW built it from 1987 to 1994. That is about 64 hp and 88 Nm per litre, a relaxed tune aimed at torque, durability and economy. Within the M40 family, the M40B18 (113 hp) is more powerful. It was fitted to the BMW E30 316i and BMW E36 316i.
What the code M40B16 means
- M marks an M-series code, the naming BMW used for its engine families up to the early 2000s.
- 40 is the family number.
- B stands for petrol (from the German Benzin).
- 16 is the capacity in decilitres, so 1.6 litres.
Which BMW models use the M40B16
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E30 316i | second 3 Series | 1982–1994 |
| BMW E36 316i | third 3 Series | 1990–2000 |
In the E30 second 3 Series (1982–1994), the M40B16 powered the 316i. Engines from other models fit the E30 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E30 engines
In the E36 third 3 Series (1990–2000), the M40B16 powered the 316i. Engines from other models fit the E36 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E36 engines
M40B16 compared with other M40 versions
| Code | Capacity | Power | Torque | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M40B16 | 1.6 L | 102 hp | 141 Nm | 1987–1994 |
| M40B18 | 1.8 L | 113 hp | 162 Nm | 1987–1994 |
M40B16 or M40B18?
The M40B18 has 11 hp more than the M40B16 (113 against 102 hp), from 1.8 L instead of 1.6 L, and was built 1987–1994. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.
Common M40B16 problems
The M40B16 shares its weak points with the rest of the M40 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the M40 guide.
| Known fault | What to check |
|---|---|
| Timing belt | Look for a dated belt sticker or invoice. |
| Camshaft lobe wear | Remove the cam cover and inspect the lobes. |
| Rocker arms | Listen at idle with the oil hot. |
| Cooling and thermostat | Check the hoses for swelling and the radiator tanks for cracks. |
Rocker arms. Rocker arms wear with the cam; a ticking valve train is the clue.
M40B16 maintenance
- 10W-40 semi-synthetic, about 4.0 litres with filter.
- Oil every 7,500 km; timing belt every 40,000 to 60,000 km or four years.
- Rubber timing belt with tensioner, changed on time.
Will the M40B16 fit my car?
Will the M40B16 fit my BMW E30 316i?
Yes, the BMW E30 316i left the factory with the M40B16, so an M40B16 from another car is the direct replacement. The second 3 Series was built 1982–1994, and the M40B16 was produced 1987–1994, 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 E30 316i?
We do not have an M40B16 on the shelf for the E30 316i 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 M40B16 fit my BMW E36 316i?
Yes, the BMW E36 316i left the factory with the M40B16, so an M40B16 from another car is the direct replacement. The third 3 Series was built 1990–2000, and the M40B16 was produced 1987–1994, 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 E36 316i?
We do not have an M40B16 on the shelf for the E36 316i 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.
M40B16 prices
We do not have an M40B16 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 M40B16: checklist
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Timing belt history. A timing belt must be changed on time and distance. With no dated record, treat the belt, tensioner and water pump as due and replace them before the first start.
- Originality and numbers. For collectible cars, the engine number and correct ancillaries add value. Photograph the stamp and keep it with the car's documents.
Questions about the M40B16
Is the BMW M40B18 a diesel or petrol engine?
The M40B18 is a petrol engine. It is a 1.8 liter (1,796 cc) inline 4, SOHC, 8 valve unit with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and it was built to the Euro 1 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 M40 Engines · Search M40B18 in the shop
What should I check on a used BMW M40 engine?
Start with the basics: the engine code on the block, the recorded mileage and the photos. Make sure the code matches your car and the parts you need are on the unit.
On an M40 petrol engine, a fitter usually checks the spark plugs, the coils, the timing side and the oil seals. These parts are easy to check before fitting and easy to change if needed.
If you want more photos or a short video of a unit, ask the desk and we send them before you pay. An inspection certificate can travel with the order on request.
Once fitted, change the oil and filter early and drive gently at first. Report any problem right away so the warranty stays valid.
See all M40 Engines · Inspection certificate
Can you check if an M40B18 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 M40B18, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW E30 318i and BMW E36 318i.
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 M40 Engines · Search M40B18 in the shop
What should I know about the BMW M40 engine?
BMW M40 1.6 and 1.8 petrol engines for E30 and E36. We list one version: M40B18 (1.8 liter (1,796 cc), 83 kW (113 HP), 1987 to 1994).
Because there is only one version, the code is easy to match. You still need the engine computer and wiring that suit your car.
The M40 family was used in chassis E30 and E36. 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.
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.
What comes with a used M40B18 engine?
Each M40B18 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 M40 Engines · Search M40B18 in the shop
What should I replace when I fit a used M40B18 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 M40 Engines · Search M40B18 in the shop
Which years were BMW M40 engines made?
BMW built the M40 engines we list from about 1987 to 1994. The M40B18 ran from 1987 to 1994.
They went into chassis E30 and E36. The exact year of a car matters, because BMW sometimes changed the engine version or its parts in the middle of a model's life.
Each listing in our yard names the engine year, so you can match it to the build date of 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.
Which cars use the BMW M40B18 engine?
BMW fitted the M40B18 to the BMW E30 318i and BMW E36 318i. These cars were built with this engine from about 1987 to 1994.
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 M40B18 is the only M40 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 M40 Engines · Search M40B18 in the shop
How much does a used BMW M40B18 engine cost?
A used BMW M40B18 engine in our yard usually costs between 700 € and 1.350 €. 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 M40 Engines · Search M40B18 in the shop
Will the M40B18 engine fit my BMW E30 318i?
Yes, if your BMW E30 318i was built with the M40B18. BMW used this 1.8 liter (1,796 cc) petrol engine with 83 kW (113 HP) in the E30 318i from about 1987 to 1994.
Some E30 318i cars were built with a different engine: the M10B18. These look alike from the outside, so check the code on your engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E30 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 M40 Engines · Search M40B18 in the shop
Are there other versions of the BMW M40B18?
In our yard the M40B18 is the only listed version of the M40 family. It makes 83 kW (113 HP) and 162 Nm, and was built from 1987 to 1994.
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 M40 Engines · Search M40B18 in the shop
How long does delivery of an M40B18 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 M40 Engines · Search M40B18 in the shop
Delivery, warranty and payment
Every M40B16 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.
A 12-month warranty covers eligible internal failure when the engine is fitted by a qualified workshop with new fluids and filters. You can pay by card, bank transfer or crypto and receive the invoice by email straight away.
