The N46B20 is a 2.0 L petrol inline-4 from BMW's N46 family, built 2004–2012 and rated at 150 hp and 200 Nm. It powered the BMW E90 318i, BMW E87 118i, BMW E60 520i and BMW E84 X1 18i.
This guide is about the N46B20 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other N46 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our N42 and N46 guide.
- Capacity and layout: 2.0 L, inline-4, naturally aspirated
- Output: 150 hp and 200 Nm
- Production: 2004–2012
- Fitted to: 4 models across 4 chassis generations
- In our stock: ask the desk for the next arrival — N46B20 engines for sale
N46B20 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | N46B20 |
| Family | N46 |
| Capacity | 2.0 L |
| Layout | Inline-4 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 150 hp |
| Torque | 200 Nm |
| Specific output | 75 hp per litre |
| Production | 2004–2012 |
| Models | 4 |
Built from 2004 to 2012, the N46B20 displaces 2.0 L in an inline-4 layout and is naturally aspirated. It produces 150 hp and 200 Nm on petrol. That is about 75 hp and 100 Nm per litre, a strong figure for a road engine of its era. Within the N46 family, it is the most powerful version, while the N46B18 (115 hp) is milder. It was fitted to the BMW E90 318i, BMW E87 118i, BMW E60 520i and BMW E84 X1 18i.
What the code N46B20 means
- N marks an N-series code, the generation of BMW engines introduced from 2001.
- 46 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 N46B20
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E90 318i | fifth 3 Series saloon | 2005–2012 |
| BMW E87 118i | first 1 Series five-door | 2004–2011 |
| BMW E60 520i | fifth 5 Series | 2003–2010 |
| BMW E84 X1 18i | first X1 | 2009–2015 |
In the E90 fifth 3 Series saloon (2005–2012), the N46B20 powered the 318i. 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 E87 first 1 Series five-door (2004–2011), the N46B20 powered the 118i. 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
In the E60 fifth 5 Series (2003–2010), the N46B20 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
In the E84 first X1 (2009–2015), the N46B20 powered the X1 18i. Engines from other models fit the E84 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E84 engines
N46B20 compared with other N46 versions
| Code | Capacity | Power | Torque | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N46B18 | 1.8 L | 115 hp | 175 Nm | 2004–2007 |
| N46B20 | 2.0 L | 150 hp | 200 Nm | 2004–2012 |
N46B20 or N46B18?
The N46B18 has 35 hp less than the N46B20 (115 against 150 hp), from 1.8 L instead of 2.0 L, and was built 2004–2007. 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 N46B20 problems
The N46B20 shares its weak points with the rest of the N46 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the N42 and N46 guide.
| Known fault | What to check |
|---|---|
| Oil consumption | Ask for consumption figures and check the spark plugs for oil fouling. |
| Timing chain stretch | Listen for a rattle on a cold start and check the camshaft timing values. |
| Valvetronic motor and eccentric shaft sensor | Check for Valvetronic fault codes. |
| Vacuum pump and oil leaks | Look at the back of the head. |
| Crankcase ventilation | Check for a whistle at idle. |
Crankcase ventilation. The CCV diaphragm splits, causing lean codes and a whistle.
N46B20 maintenance
- 5W-30 BMW Longlife-01 or Longlife-04, about 4.25 litres.
- Oil every 15,000 km; shorten to 10,000 km to protect the chain.
- Timing chain at the front with balance shafts.
Will the N46B20 fit my car?
Will the N46B20 fit my BMW E90 318i?
Yes, the BMW E90 318i left the factory with the N46B20, so an N46B20 from another car is the direct replacement. The fifth 3 Series saloon was built 2005–2012, and the N46B20 was produced 2004–2012, 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 318i?
We do not have an N46B20 on the shelf for the E90 318i 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 N46B20 fit my BMW E87 118i?
The N46B20 is the original engine for the BMW E87 118i, which makes it the straightforward choice. The first 1 Series five-door was built 2004–2011, and the N46B20 was produced 2004–2012, 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 118i?
We do not have an N46B20 on the shelf for the E87 118i 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 N46B20 fit my BMW E84 X1 18i?
The N46B20 is the original engine for the BMW E84 X1 18i, which makes it the straightforward choice. The first X1 was built 2009–2015, and the N46B20 was produced 2004–2012, 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 E84 X1 18i?
We do not have an N46B20 on the shelf for the E84 X1 18i 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.
N46B20 prices
We do not have an N46B20 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 N46B20: 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Questions about the N46B20
How much is a replacement N46B20 engine for a BMW E46 318i?
A used N46B20 for the BMW E46 318i costs from about 1.000 € to 1.700 € 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 N46B20 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Will the N46B20 engine fit my BMW E46 318i?
Yes, if your BMW E46 318i was built with the N46B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) petrol engine with 110 kW (150 HP) in the E46 318i from about 2004 to 2012.
Some E46 318i cars were built with a different engine: the M43B18. These look alike from the outside, so check the code on your engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E46 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Is the BMW N46B20 a diesel or petrol engine?
The N46B20 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
What comes with a used N46B20 engine?
Each N46B20 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Will the N46B20 engine fit my BMW E60 520i?
Yes, if your BMW E60 520i was built with the N46B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) petrol engine with 110 kW (150 HP) in the E60 520i from about 2004 to 2012.
In our records the N46B20 is the engine for the E60 520i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E60 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
How much is a replacement N46B20 engine for a BMW E60 520i?
A used N46B20 for the BMW E60 520i costs from about 1.000 € to 1.700 € 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 N46B20 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
How much power and torque does the BMW N46B20 have?
From the factory the BMW N46B20 makes 110 kW (150 HP) and 200 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 N46B20 on our site lists its year and mileage. If you want more photos or a short video of a unit, ask the desk and we send them before you pay.
See all N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Will the N46B20 engine fit my BMW E90 320i?
Yes, if your BMW E90 320i was built with the N46B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) petrol engine with 110 kW (150 HP) in the E90 320i from about 2004 to 2012.
In our records the N46B20 is the engine for the E90 320i, 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Does a used N46B20 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
How much is a replacement N46B20 engine for a BMW E87 120i?
A used N46B20 for the BMW E87 120i costs from about 1.000 € to 1.700 € 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 N46B20 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
What is the BMW N46B20 engine?
The BMW N46B20 is a 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) petrol engine from the N46 family. It has an inline 4, DOHC, 16 valve layout with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and makes 110 kW (150 HP) with 200 Nm of torque. BMW built it from 2004 to 2012 and it meets the Euro 4 emission standard.
You find the N46B20 in the BMW E90 320i, BMW E87 120i, BMW E60 520i and BMW E46 318i. What we list: BMW N46 1.6 and 2.0 petrol engines for 316i and 320i.
At Autowerke Engines every N46B20 is a real used engine from our yard in Hamburg. 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. 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Which cars use the BMW N46B20 engine?
BMW fitted the N46B20 to the BMW E90 320i, BMW E87 120i, BMW E60 520i and BMW E46 318i. These cars were built with this engine from about 2004 to 2012.
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 N46B20 is the only N46 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Can you check if an N46B20 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 N46B20, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW E90 320i, BMW E87 120i, BMW E60 520i and BMW E46 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
How much does a used BMW N46B20 engine cost?
A used BMW N46B20 engine in our yard usually costs between 1.000 € and 1.700 €. 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Are there other versions of the BMW N46B20?
In our yard the N46B20 is the only listed version of the N46 family. It makes 110 kW (150 HP) and 200 Nm, and was built from 2004 to 2012.
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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
How long does delivery of an N46B20 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
How much is a replacement N46B20 engine for a BMW E90 320i?
A used N46B20 for the BMW E90 320i costs from about 1.000 € to 1.700 € 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 N46B20 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
What should I replace when I fit a used N46B20 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Will the N46B20 engine fit my BMW E87 120i?
Yes, if your BMW E87 120i was built with the N46B20. BMW used this 2.0 liter (1,995 cc) petrol engine with 110 kW (150 HP) in the E87 120i from about 2004 to 2012.
In our records the N46B20 is the engine for the E87 120i, 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
How do I know a used N46B20 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. If you want more photos or a short video of a unit, ask the desk and we send them before you pay.
On a petrol engine like the N46B20, 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 N46 Engines · Search N46B20 in the shop
Delivery, warranty and payment
Every N46B20 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.
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.
N42 and N46 engine guide · N46B20 engines for sale · All N42 and N46 engines · Send us your VIN
