BMW built the N43B16 from 2007 to 2011. It is a 1.6 L naturally aspirated petrol inline-4 with 122 hp and 160 Nm, part of the N43 family. You will find it in the BMW E81 116i and BMW E87 116i.
This guide is about the N43B16 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other N43 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our N43 guide.
- Capacity and layout: 1.6 L, inline-4, naturally aspirated
- Output: 122 hp and 160 Nm
- Production: 2007–2011
- Fitted to: 2 models across 2 chassis generations
- In our stock: ask the desk for the next arrival — N43B16 engines for sale
N43B16 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | N43B16 |
| Family | N43 |
| Capacity | 1.6 L |
| Layout | Inline-4 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 122 hp |
| Torque | 160 Nm |
| Specific output | 76 hp per litre |
| Production | 2007–2011 |
| Models | 2 |
Built from 2007 to 2011, the N43B16 displaces 1.6 L in an inline-4 layout and is naturally aspirated. It produces 122 hp and 160 Nm on petrol. That is about 76 hp and 100 Nm per litre, a strong figure for a road engine of its era. Within the N43 family, the N43B20 (170 hp) is more powerful. It was fitted to the BMW E81 116i and BMW E87 116i.
What the code N43B16 means
- N marks an N-series code, the generation of BMW engines introduced from 2001.
- 43 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 N43B16
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E81 116i | first 1 Series three-door | 2007–2012 |
| BMW E87 116i | first 1 Series five-door | 2004–2011 |
In the E81 first 1 Series three-door (2007–2012), the N43B16 powered the 116i. Engines from other models fit the E81 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E81 engines
In the E87 first 1 Series five-door (2004–2011), the N43B16 powered the 116i. Engines from other models fit the E87 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E87 engines
N43B16 compared with other N43 versions
| Code | Capacity | Power | Torque | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N43B16 | 1.6 L | 122 hp | 160 Nm | 2007–2011 |
| N43B20 | 2.0 L | 170 hp | 210 Nm | 2007–2011 |
N43B16 or N43B20?
The N43B20 has 48 hp more than the N43B16 (170 against 122 hp), from 2.0 L instead of 1.6 L, and was built 2007–2011. 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 N43B16 problems
The N43B16 shares its weak points with the rest of the N43 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the N43 guide.
| Known fault | What to check |
|---|---|
| Piezo injectors | Check misfire counters and injector correction values. |
| Ignition coils and spark plugs | Read the misfire history and inspect the plugs. |
| NOx sensor and catalyst | Check for NOx sensor fault codes. |
| Timing chain | Listen at cold start. |
| Vacuum pump and oil leaks | Look at the back of the head. |
Timing chain. Chain stretch occurs at higher mileage.
N43B16 maintenance
- 5W-30 BMW Longlife-01 or Longlife-04, about 4.25 litres.
- Oil every 15,000 km; spark plugs every 60,000 km.
- Timing chain at the front.
Will the N43B16 fit my car?
Will the N43B16 fit my BMW E81 116i?
Yes, the BMW E81 116i left the factory with the N43B16, so an N43B16 from another car is the direct replacement. The first 1 Series three-door was built 2007–2012, and the N43B16 was produced 2007–2011, 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 E81 116i?
We do not have an N43B16 on the shelf for the E81 116i 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 N43B16 fit my BMW E87 116i?
The N43B16 is the original engine for the BMW E87 116i, which makes it the straightforward choice. The first 1 Series five-door was built 2004–2011, and the N43B16 was produced 2007–2011, 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 E87 116i?
We do not have an N43B16 on the shelf for the E87 116i 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.
N43B16 prices
We do not have an N43B16 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.
Other N43 versions are in stock from 843,00 €. Some can be fitted in place of the N43B16 with parts transferred; ask the desk which ones suit your car.
N43 engines in stock
These N43 units are in our Hamburg yard right now. Each listing shows real photographs of the engine you receive, its mileage and what is fitted.
BMW E90 320i N43B20A Engine 2011 — 848,00 €, reduced from 1.250,00 €. It comes from a 2011 donor car, and 24 units are available. The listing shows every side of the engine and the fitted parts.
BMW E90 318i N43B20A Engine 2008 — 843,00 €, reduced from 1.250,00 €. It comes from a 2008 donor car, and 30 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.
Buying a used N43B16: checklist
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 N43B16
What is the BMW N43B20 engine?
The BMW N43B20 is a 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) petrol engine from the N43 family. It has an inline 4, DOHC, 16 valve layout with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and makes 105 kW (143 HP) with 190 Nm of torque. BMW built it from 2007 to 2011 and it meets the Euro 4 emission standard.
You find the N43B20 in the BMW E87 118i, BMW E90 318i and BMW E81 120i. What we list: BMW N43 direct-injection four-cylinder engines for 118i and 318i.
At Autowerke Engines every N43B20 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
What should I replace when I fit a used N43B20 engine?
A used engine lasts longest when it starts life in your car with fresh fluids and new seals. Check the spark plugs and the ignition coils, and make sure the fuel lines are clean and tight before you crank the engine. 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. 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
Will the N43B20 engine fit my BMW E81 120i?
Yes, if your BMW E81 120i was built with the N43B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) petrol engine with 105 kW (143 HP) in the E81 120i from about 2007 to 2011.
In our records the N43B20 is the engine for the E81 120i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E81 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
Will the N43B20 engine fit my BMW E87 118i?
Yes, if your BMW E87 118i was built with the N43B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) petrol engine with 105 kW (143 HP) in the E87 118i from about 2007 to 2011.
In our records the N43B20 is the engine for the E87 118i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E87 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
How much power and torque does the BMW N43B20 have?
From the factory the BMW N43B20 makes 105 kW (143 HP) and 190 Nm of torque. It is a 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) inline 4, DOHC, 16 valve petrol engine with no turbo (naturally aspirated).
Without a turbo, the power builds smoothly with the revs. A clean air intake, healthy ignition and the correct fuel 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 N43B20 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
Are there other versions of the BMW N43B20?
In our yard the N43B20 is the only listed version of the N43 family. It makes 105 kW (143 HP) and 190 Nm, and was built from 2007 to 2011.
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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
What should I know about the BMW N43 engine?
BMW N43 direct-injection four-cylinder engines for 118i and 318i. We list one version: N43B20 (2.0 liter (1,995 cc), 105 kW (143 HP), 2007 to 2011).
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 N43 family was used in chassis E87, E90 and E81. 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.
Does a used N43B20 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
What should I check on a used BMW N43 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 N43 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 N43 Engines · Inspection certificate
Can you check if an N43B20 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 N43B20, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW E87 118i, BMW E90 318i and BMW E81 120i.
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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
Will the N43B20 engine fit my BMW E90 318i?
Yes, if your BMW E90 318i was built with the N43B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) petrol engine with 105 kW (143 HP) in the E90 318i from about 2007 to 2011.
In our records the N43B20 is the engine for the E90 318i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E90 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
Is the BMW N43B20 a diesel or petrol engine?
The N43B20 is a petrol engine. It is a 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) inline 4, DOHC, 16 valve unit with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and it was built to the Euro 4 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
Delivery, warranty and payment
Before an N43B16 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.
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.
N43 engine guide · N43B16 engines for sale · All N43 engines · Send us your VIN
