BMW built the N43B20 from 2007 to 2011. It is a 2.0 L naturally aspirated petrol inline-4 with 170 hp and 210 Nm, part of the N43 family. You will find it in the BMW E90 320i, BMW E81 120i and BMW E60 520i.
This guide is about the N43B20 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: 2.0 L, inline-4, naturally aspirated
- Output: 170 hp and 210 Nm
- Production: 2007–2011
- Fitted to: 3 models across 3 chassis generations
- In our stock: ask the desk for the next arrival — N43B20 engines for sale
N43B20 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | N43B20 |
| Family | N43 |
| Capacity | 2.0 L |
| Layout | Inline-4 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 170 hp |
| Torque | 210 Nm |
| Specific output | 85 hp per litre |
| Production | 2007–2011 |
| Models | 3 |
N43B20: 2.0 L, inline-4, petrol, naturally aspirated. Output is 170 hp with 210 Nm of torque, and production ran from 2007 to 2011. That is about 85 hp and 105 Nm per litre, a strong figure for a road engine of its era. Within the N43 family, it is the most powerful version, while the N43B16 (122 hp) is milder. It was fitted to the BMW E90 320i, BMW E81 120i and BMW E60 520i.
What the code N43B20 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).
- 20 is the capacity in decilitres, so 2.0 litres.
Which BMW models use the N43B20
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E90 320i | fifth 3 Series saloon | 2005–2012 |
| BMW E81 120i | first 1 Series three-door | 2007–2012 |
| BMW E60 520i | fifth 5 Series | 2003–2010 |
In the E90 fifth 3 Series saloon (2005–2012), the N43B20 powered the 320i. Engines from other models fit the E90 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E90 engines
In the E81 first 1 Series three-door (2007–2012), the N43B20 powered the 120i. 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 E60 fifth 5 Series (2003–2010), the N43B20 powered the 520i. Engines from other models fit the E60 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E60 engines
N43B20 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 |
N43B20 or N43B16?
The N43B16 has 48 hp less than the N43B20 (122 against 170 hp), from 1.6 L instead of 2.0 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 N43B20 problems
The N43B20 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. |
NOx sensor and catalyst. The NOx storage catalyst and sensor degrade, especially with high-sulphur fuel.
N43B20 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 N43B20 fit my car?
Will the N43B20 fit my BMW E90 320i?
The N43B20 is the original engine for the BMW E90 320i, which makes it the straightforward choice. The fifth 3 Series saloon was built 2005–2012, and the N43B20 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 E90 320i?
We have 2 N43B20 engines from E90 donor cars, priced from 843,00 € to 848,00 €. Delivery to your door is included, and the engine carries a 12-month warranty when fitted by a qualified workshop. Add fitting labour and the parts you replace at the same time — seals, cooling parts and mounts — to estimate the total.
Will the N43B20 fit my BMW E60 520i?
Yes, the BMW E60 520i left the factory with the N43B20, so an N43B20 from another car is the direct replacement. The fifth 5 Series was built 2003–2010, and the N43B20 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 E60 520i?
We have 2 N43B20 engines in stock, priced from 843,00 € to 848,00 €. Delivery to your door is included, and the engine carries a 12-month warranty when fitted by a qualified workshop. Add fitting labour and the parts you replace at the same time — seals, cooling parts and mounts — to estimate the total.
N43B20 prices
We do not have an N43B20 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 N43B20 with parts transferred; ask the desk which ones suit your car.
N43 engines in stock
Here is a selection of N43 engines currently on our shelves, photographed in the yard. Click any of them for the full photographs, mileage and specification.
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.
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.
Buying a used N43B20: checklist
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 N43B20
How much is a replacement N43B20 engine for a BMW E81 120i?
A used N43B20 for the BMW E81 120i costs from about 1.050 € to 1.850 € 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 N43B20 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.
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How much is a replacement N43B20 engine for a BMW E87 118i?
A used N43B20 for the BMW E87 118i costs from about 1.050 € to 1.850 € 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 N43B20 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
How long does delivery of an N43B20 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.
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How much does a used BMW N43B20 engine cost?
A used BMW N43B20 engine in our yard usually costs between 1.050 € and 1.850 €. 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.
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What comes with a used N43B20 engine?
Each N43B20 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.
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How do I know a used N43B20 engine is in good shape?
Before a unit is listed, the yard checks the engine code against the listing, writes down the parts fitted to it, seals every opening and photographs the real engine you will receive. 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 N43B20, 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
How much is a replacement N43B20 engine for a BMW E90 318i?
A used N43B20 for the BMW E90 318i costs from about 1.050 € to 1.850 € 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 N43B20 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 N43 Engines · Search N43B20 in the shop
Which cars use the BMW N43B20 engine?
BMW fitted the N43B20 to the BMW E87 118i, BMW E90 318i and BMW E81 120i. These cars were built with this engine from about 2007 to 2011.
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 N43B20 is the only N43 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 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
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
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 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
Delivery, warranty and payment
Before an N43B20 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.
Delivery is door to door and included in the price. Most European addresses receive the engine within five to ten working days; Germany and its neighbours are usually faster.
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 · N43B20 engines for sale · All N43 engines · Send us your VIN
