BMW N26B20 engine: specs, problems and prices

The N26B20 is a 2.0 L petrol inline-4 from BMW's N26 family, built 2012–2016 and rated at 245 hp and 350 Nm. It powered the BMW F30 328i SULEV and BMW F10 528i SULEV.

This guide is about the N26B20 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other N26 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our N20 and N26 guide.

• Capacity and layout: 2.0 L, inline-4, turbocharged
• Output: 245 hp and 350 Nm
• Production: 2012–2016
• Fitted to: 2 models across 2 chassis generations
• In our stock: 5 units from 1.375,00 € — N26B20 engines for sale

N26B20 specifications

N26B20: 2.0 L, inline-4, petrol, turbocharged. Output is 245 hp with 350 Nm of torque, and production ran from 2012 to 2016. That is about 123 hp and 175 Nm per litre, a high specific output that reflects a performance-focused design. It was fitted to the BMW F30 328i SULEV and BMW F10 528i SULEV.

What the code N26B20 means

• N marks an N-series code, the generation of BMW engines introduced from 2001.
• 26 is the family number.
• B stands for petrol (from the German Benzin).
• 20 is the capacity in decilitres, so 2.0 litres.

Which BMW models use the N26B20

In the F30 sixth 3 Series (2011–2019), the N26B20 powered the 328i SULEV. We have 1 N26B20 unit from F30 donor cars. All F30 engines

In the F10 sixth 5 Series (2010–2017), the N26B20 powered the 528i SULEV. We have 1 N26B20 unit from F10 donor cars. All F10 engines

Common N26B20 problems

The N26B20 shares its weak points with the rest of the N26 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the N20 and N26 guide.

Oil filter housing and valve cover gaskets. Both leak with age.

N26B20 maintenance

• 0W-30 or 5W-30 BMW Longlife-01, about 5.25 litres.
• Oil every 10,000 to 15,000 km.
• Timing chain at the rear (gearbox end).

Will the N26B20 fit my car?

N26B20 prices

Our N26B20 stock runs to 5 units, priced from 1.375,00 € to 3.221,00 € with a median of 1.995,00 €.

Prices depend on the exact version, the donor's mileage, how complete the engine is and the demand for that code. Higher-output versions, low mileage and dressed engines with turbo, injectors and ancillaries cost more; long blocks and higher mileage cost less.

N26B20 engines in stock

Here is a selection of N26B20 engines currently on our shelves, photographed in the yard. Click any of them for the full photographs, mileage and specification.

BMW F32 428i N26B20 Engine 20151.375,00 €BMW N26B20 Engine2.022,00 €BMW F10 528i SULEV N26B20 Complete Engine1.995,00 €

BMW F32 428i N26B20 Engine 2015 — 1.375,00 €, reduced from 2.000,00 €. It comes from a 2015 donor car, and 23 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

BMW N26B20 Engine — 2.022,00 €, reduced from 2.500,00 €. It comes from a recorded donor car, and 15 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.

BMW F10 528i SULEV N26B20 Complete Engine — 1.995,00 €, reduced from 2.500,00 €. It comes from a recorded donor car, and 25 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.

Buying a used N26B20: checklist

1. 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.
2. Why your old engine failed. Before fitting a replacement, find out why the original failed. An overheating radiator, a blocked intercooler or a failed turbo can destroy a second engine if they are not fixed.
3. 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.
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. 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.
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.
13. Electric water pump. This engine uses an electric water pump. It fails without warning and needs a diagnostic bleeding routine when it is replaced or the system is refilled.

Questions about the N26B20

Which cars use the BMW N26B20 engine?

BMW fitted the N26B20 to the BMW F30 328i SULEV, BMW F10 528i SULEV and BMW F22 228i. These cars were built with this engine from about 2012 to 2016.

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 N26B20 is the only N26 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

How much is a replacement N26B20 engine for a BMW F10 528i SULEV?

A used N26B20 for the BMW F10 528i SULEV costs from about 2.050 € to 3.350 € 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 N26B20 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

How much power and torque does the BMW N26B20 have?

From the factory the BMW N26B20 makes 180 kW (245 HP) and 350 Nm of torque. It is a 2.0 liter (1,997 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 N26B20 on our site lists its year and mileage. Ask the desk for more pictures of any listing. We are happy to show the stamp, the ports and the ancillaries before you decide.

See all N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

Is the BMW N26B20 a diesel or petrol engine?

The N26B20 is a petrol engine. It is a 2.0 liter (1,997 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

How much is a replacement N26B20 engine for a BMW F22 228i?

A used N26B20 for the BMW F22 228i costs from about 2.050 € to 3.350 € 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 N26B20 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

Will the N26B20 engine fit my BMW F30 328i SULEV?

Yes, if your BMW F30 328i SULEV was built with the N26B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,997 cc) petrol engine with 180 kW (245 HP) in the F30 328i SULEV from about 2012 to 2016.

In our records the N26B20 is the engine for the F30 328i SULEV, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.

Also tell us if your F30 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

Will the N26B20 engine fit my BMW F10 528i SULEV?

Yes, if your BMW F10 528i SULEV was built with the N26B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,997 cc) petrol engine with 180 kW (245 HP) in the F10 528i SULEV from about 2012 to 2016.

In our records the N26B20 is the engine for the F10 528i SULEV, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.

Also tell us if your F10 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

Does a used N26B20 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

What is the BMW N26B20 engine?

The BMW N26B20 is a 2.0 liter (1,997 cc) petrol engine from the N26 family. It has an inline 4, DOHC, 16 valve layout with a twin-scroll turbocharger, and makes 180 kW (245 HP) with 350 Nm of torque. BMW built it from 2012 to 2016 and it meets the Euro 6 emission standard.

You find the N26B20 in the BMW F30 328i SULEV, BMW F10 528i SULEV and BMW F22 228i. What we list: BMW N26 SULEV 2.0 turbo petrol engines, the low-emission N20 variant.

At Autowerke Engines every N26B20 is a real used engine from our yard in Hamburg. 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. 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

What should I replace when I fit a used N26B20 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

How much does a used BMW N26B20 engine cost?

A used BMW N26B20 engine in our yard usually costs between 2.050 € and 3.350 €. 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

Can you check if an N26B20 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 N26B20, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW F30 328i SULEV, BMW F10 528i SULEV and BMW F22 228i.

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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

What comes with a used N26B20 engine?

Each N26B20 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

Are there other versions of the BMW N26B20?

In our yard the N26B20 is the only listed version of the N26 family. It makes 180 kW (245 HP) and 350 Nm, and was built from 2012 to 2016.

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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

How long does delivery of an N26B20 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

Will the N26B20 engine fit my BMW F22 228i?

Yes, if your BMW F22 228i was built with the N26B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,997 cc) petrol engine with 180 kW (245 HP) in the F22 228i from about 2012 to 2016.

In our records the N26B20 is the engine for the F22 228i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.

Also tell us if your F22 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

How do I know a used N26B20 engine is in good shape?

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. 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. Ask the desk for more pictures of any listing. We are happy to show the stamp, the ports and the ancillaries before you decide.

On a petrol engine like the N26B20, 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

How much is a replacement N26B20 engine for a BMW F30 328i SULEV?

A used N26B20 for the BMW F30 328i SULEV costs from about 2.050 € to 3.350 € 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 N26B20 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 N26 Engines · Search N26B20 in the shop

Delivery, warranty and payment

Every N26B20 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.

N20 and N26 engine guide · N26B20 engines for sale · All N20 and N26 engines · Send us your VIN