BMW N26 Engine: Professionals, Cons and Reliability

The BMW N26 engine, usually in comparison with its sibling, the N20, was an integral a part of BMW’s push for extra environmentally pleasant powertrains again within the early 2010s. Launched as a “SULEV” (Tremendous Extremely Low Emissions Car) variant of the N20, the N26 engine powered a number of BMW fashions from 2013 to 2016. Regardless of their similarities, the N26 has notable variations designed to fulfill stricter emissions rules, significantly in states like California and New York, the place tighter emissions requirements apply.

On this article, we’ll discover the reliability, key variations between the N26 and N20 engines, advisable upkeep practices, and the professionals and cons of proudly owning a automobile geared up with the N26 engine.

Key Variations Between the BMW N26 and N20 Engines

Whereas the BMW N26 and N20 engines share a 2.0-liter inline-4 turbocharged configuration and lots of inside parts, they differ primarily in emissions expertise:

1. Emissions Gear: Probably the most important distinction between the N26 and N20 is the emissions gear. The N26 is assessed as a SULEV engine, which means it complies with a lot stricter emissions requirements than the N20 (which is assessed as ULEV – Extremely Low Emissions Car). To realize this, the N26 is supplied with extra emissions management parts, similar to bigger catalytic converters, an digital wastegate, and a modified PCV system.
2. Gas System: The N26 options metallic gas strains as a substitute of the rubber ones discovered within the N20, and it features a valve within the gas tank venting system for leak testing.
3. Software program Tuning: The engine management unit (ECU) software program is calibrated in another way to optimize efficiency and emissions for the N26’s particular {hardware}.Guarantee Protection: Due to the N26’s emissions parts, automobiles with this engine sometimes include an prolonged emissions guarantee, overlaying sure parts for as much as 15 years or 150,000 miles in states that comply with California’s emissions requirements.

Mannequin Functions:

The N26 was solely accessible in 2013–2016 BMW fashions bought in emissions-restrictive states, together with California, New York, New Jersey, and others. The N20, alternatively, was extra extensively accessible throughout all U.S. states and internationally.

• 2012-2016 F30 328i / 328iX
• 2012-2016 F22 228i / 228iX
• 2014-2016 BMW 4 Collection F32/F35/F36 428i SULEV

Regardless of these variations, each engines share the identical energy output: 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, making efficiency indistinguishable underneath regular driving situations.

BMW N26 Reliability

In the case of reliability, the N26 inherits each the strengths and weaknesses of the N20, but typically, the N26 is taken into account a dependable engine. Listed here are the frequent reliability components:

• Timing Chain: Whereas not as widespread as within the N20, timing chain issues can happen, resulting in expensive repairs. Common oil modifications and checking the chain tensioner may also help stop this. In response to some house owners, this situation sometimes manifests after 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
• Valve Cowl and Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leaks: These are frequent points in lots of BMW engines, together with the N26. Changing the gaskets is a comparatively simple restore.
• Excessive-Strain Gas Pump (HPFP) Failure: Although much less frequent than in earlier BMW fashions, the HPFP can fail within the N26, resulting in tough working or a no-start situation.

Upkeep Ideas for the BMW N26

Correct upkeep is crucial to make sure the longevity of the N26 engine. Listed here are the important thing upkeep ideas and intervals for this engine:

1. Oil Adjustments: Common oil modifications are essential. BMW recommends oil modifications each 10,000 miles, however many house owners go for 5,000-7,500-mile intervals, particularly in harsh driving situations. Use high-quality artificial oil to maintain the engine working easily.
2. Timing Chain Inspection: Given the timing chain points, it’s a good suggestion to have the chain and guides inspected at round 60,000 miles. For those who hear a rattling noise coming from the engine, have it checked instantly.
3. Cooling System: Control the coolant ranges and have the water pump and thermostat inspected throughout common service intervals to keep away from potential overheating.
4. Emissions Elements: For the reason that N26 has extra emissions gear, it’s vital to keep up these elements, particularly for house owners in SULEV states. Commonly examine gas strains, the catalytic converter, and the secondary air injection system.
5. Gasket Replacements: Be proactive about changing the oil filter housing gasket and valve cowl gasket as they will put on out over time, main to grease leaks.
6. Excessive-Strain Gas Pump: Keep vigilant for any indicators of HPFP failure, similar to tough idling or engine misfires. If the pump fails, it must be changed underneath BMW’s prolonged emissions guarantee if relevant.

General, the BMW N26 is a strong engine that provides a superb steadiness of efficiency, gas effectivity, and emissions compliance. There may be on main recall which passed off in 2013 and you’ll study extra about it right here.