Another very common item on these engines is the vacuum pump leaking oil on to the exhaust manifold. People then replace the rocker cover gasket and the smell of burnt oil is still there. Before replacing the rocker cover gasket use a small mirror and check the vacuum pump is not the culprit . More often than not you will see the oil leaking from the vacuum pump cover. Also if you have a rattle when you first start, the top plastic guide will be broken and the rattle will result in the timing guide insert falling out and being chewed up by the crankshaft sprocket. This results in small pieces of plastic in the sump. These then get sucked up by the oil pump and they starve the engine of oil. This will seize the engine. I personally have seen this on 5 occasions. If you have an n42 or n46 you probably have a lot of small bits of plastic timing guide in your sump. Remember to do a chain you need to lock the balance shafts. Always remove the sump and clean it out, and most importantly clean out the oil pick up tube.
I have N46B20BD its been 18 months driving it, every weekend of those 18 months I travel over 400km. Its the most reliable engine when I compare to my mates with N52 and N54 engines. The valve stem seals and valvetronic motor indeed are notorious on that engine, I have had to get those replaced. Other than that, its fun to drive that engine and it has great fuel economy too especially on the highway/motorway.
bro thank you you are amazing ,you just ansered and freed up so much in my head .been doing my head in nowing but boudtig and what ifs . solid info thank you
Great summary! Pretty much sums up all my problems I've had with this engine and gives me an idea of what to do as preventative maintenance or what to look for when it goes bad again.
I own an e46 318i 2003 , and it suffered from nothing at all . I got it at 93000 km and I had to change the valve stem seals , plus the car had the wrong engine oil in it , perhaps 15w40 . So far , nothing is wrong , but I did replace one camshaft sensor and the car drove like new again
I like these engines they keep me busy always repairing and replacing Valve stem seals Timing chain & guides Eccentric shafts & Intermediate levers is crazy doing these 3 to 4 times per month
Thanks my BMW doctor, I got 2011 E90 N46 120 000, white smoke the other day thought someone bumped me at the back 😄 it's exactly how you explained. I hate that I love my Beemer
I’ve had an e46 318i with N42 engine for 17 years, and I will never recommend that engine to anyone. It’s sluggish and unreliable. I’ll admit I haven’t had any major engine issues yet because I do preventive maintenance very often, much more often than usual; and because the car has only done 130,000 km, which is quite low for a 17-year old car. I have an E60 with the N52 engine, and in my opinion the N52 is the superior engine in every area and is much more reliable. I’ve had the E60 for 11 years and it’s had a lot less issues than the E46. Oh and the fuel consumption of the N42B20 isnt much better than the N52B30. So if anybody wants to buy an E46, just forgo this engine and go with the 6 cylinder model. I used to own one with the M54 engine and it was more reliable and the performance is on a whole another level.
I had an E46 with N42B20 for 9 years and did 170k to 275k kilometers, never replaced the chain or valve stem seals and overall very minimal egine issues, apart from the crankshaft speed sensor and the two camshaft sensors that failed. After that I bought an X3 E83 with the N46B20 engine and only 180k kilometers and it immediately needed valve stem seals and a new chain, as it was smoking and the chain had a lot of play. Luckily the garage payed for the repairs. But that just goes to show that how you drive your car makes a huge impact on the engine health.
Thanks for the video, I have the N42B20 engine, had a head gasket go on it so did a full top end service including valve stem seals. Very easy engine to work on. Question I have is about the vanos, you mentioned about cleaning it, but renewing the solenoids. How would you go about cleaning the cam adjuster? Are they serviceable? I’m getting a lot of low down missing and hesitation under load but fine top end.
true! but the timing chain replacement is a lot of work! the balance shafts needs to be locked in the oilpan. so the front suspension needs to come of so the engine needs to hang in a engine support!
Very good overview. I think the N42 goes into the same category as the vw 16v DOCH engine. Not very reliable and too experimental. N42 engine has also a problem with 0-rings leaking(specially the vacuum pump) and the burning smell of oil I know too well. If it-s over 17 years old it should get a total engine rebuild. Bad timing chain is a issue, plastic parts are sometimes broken to do excessive heath and old age. Over all it take a lot of patience to keep the N42 running.
Mate I’m so glad you made this video. I have an issue with my N42 and crackshaft position sensors. I’ve replaced them both the low side (B) has been replaced 3 times now and it’s works for a short period then fails. Any clues?
Yeees! I have it 5 years ago and its so hard to find good manuals about that. As a mechanic I give you a big thank you! Anyway can you speak a bit slow haha UK boys ;)
brother i have an n42 318ci and sometimes when im at the traffic lights my car doesnt take even im on my gas pedal with full force. i have an automatic. if i change to N it gets normal immediatly and i can drive whats the solution?
Hey man, I hope you can help me. Sometimes when the automatic gearbox shifting up from first to second, the gear makes punch and noise from the gearbox, and falls into error mode (service mode that only 4 gear works). There are no errors from the gearbox during scanning, there is only a vvt error on scanner , can this be related? And should I try to just replace the vvt motor? Thanks, I'm waiting for your opinion.
Thanks great video. I think I have a problem with my vanos to . Is it possible to measure the oil pressure whit a regulair oil meter ? Is there a spot where I can hook it up without dissembling the the alternator and the intake ?
hi, can you tell me please if this engine is interference or non interference because I rotated the shafts and there is no resistance, it will bend valves when timing chain is broken ? the pistons have that holes where the valves could get in and it will take no damage right ? thank you!
Great videos mate, common problems people can save a fortune on. Dean I have a suggestion mate, a video on low priced entry level BMW's for people not afraid to do some wrenching themselves.
My VVT just went as well, and my rocket cover gasket, oil pan been leaking for a while also, oh and my valve stem seals are gone as iv already replaced the CCV, ill get round to all that when i fix the weather seal in the door and the blocked heater matrix and my knocking driveshaft! I love my N46 lol
Yes bmw doctors amazing vid, I have my 320i originally was getting misfire codes on cyl 1,2 and 3 with running rich codes. I changed my spark plugs, coils and injectors. After changing the injectors was running fine until after 2-3 mins of idling now I’m getting running lean codes and an absurd amount of white smoke pouring out of the exhaust. Local mechanic says it can be my piston rings. Completely lost in this journey of trying to fix it
Hello sir, I assembled the n42 engine, it starts, it works, it goes well. small camshaft engine, no more errors? is now the same again. And as for now, after the diagnosis, it seems to me that a rattle is heard in the area of the third ridge
Thank you thank you thank you,iv been looking for information on my ñ46 and I believe you have just covered the issues I have currently , as I have fault codes Motronic MEV 9.2 - 29cc combustion failure multiple cylinders , 29ce cylinder 2 ,29cf cylinder 3 AND I have found oil on my spark plugs , so if I understand your video correctly it's very likely to be the value stem seals leaking and foaling the plugs coursing a combination failure? I also blow blue after sitting at a idle for a bit then it clears, can you please confirm or advice regarding my summary? The car is 318ci , n46b20 .
N42 318ci 2002 bought owned it from new. Still on its original spark plugs, coolent. Only now I have the dreaded 3 lights on ( Abs, handbrake light and Asc). I am hoping it's the Abs speed sensor. The car still drives as smooth as day 1. There is oil leak coming from the vaccum pump area but it 's a common problem with these engine. So not bad for 18 years of driving.
You have had you car for 18 years from new and neglected to do much of the basic maintenance on it. I have to say that that is certain testament to the fact that some of these engines can be reliable but... Take better care of your car ;) I had the same combination of lights that turned out the be a communication issue between the throttle body and DME. The DSC throws a fit because it cant control the engine torque when the traction control is activated. I hope yours is just a wheel speed sensor :)
@@jasong9801 The lights went out by itself. I believe this was due to the car not being driven over the start of the pandemic and my battery was completely drained. The issue almost certainly started since then. Replaced with a new Exide battery and the lights have not come back. One thing I have noticed is a leak on the oil sump, looks like needs a new gasket.
We have a 318ci msport convertible with this engine, vastly underpowered for the weight of the car. We were advised to get the straight 6 but thought it’d be cheaper with insurance and petrol consumption, we should have listened 😆
good video as always, I have a N46N engine from Mexico, and just replace the valve cover gastket ans vanos o-rings, And it is like you said I need to find info from EU because it's hard to obtain info for it on this side of the globe.
I've got an 120i with the n46 engine, we replaced water pipes that lead to the oil filter I believe (not sure). After the fix we turned it on and it won't rev passed 1500 rpm,what could be the problem??
Exactly, my N46’s valvetronic motor is shattered, and it also leaks a lot of oil (common for a lot of BMWs) and also there is a coolant leak which I don’t know is common for any others.
BMW Doctor ok.... now since you’ve convinced me to get a 6 pot... I’ve found one someone wants to PX my n43 for a 325i n53 I’ve seen your n53 vid I have done my timing chain coils and injectors and my car runs SMOOOTH. But I do want the 325, it does have a misfire on 2 and 3 and it is a cat d advice please and i know it needs a software update as I just called BMW
@@BMWDoctor please man, I have this prob with the 2850 2852 faulty codes on a n42b20, should I try cleaning/changing solenoids before I buy a new exentric cam shaft sensor?? Its really expensive, and my mechanic told me I should continue driving thr car with these codes, been doing this 2 years now...he cant recalibrate vvt little motor if the errors are present....: (( what is ur opinion? It's weird I dint have check engine but like u said sometimes at red light while idling I feel like she shaking tail a little...ps I just had valve stems replaced....and when he saw valvetronic he said the little cog is stuck in a weird position....
Hi mate, I have a leaking spark plug tube seal on #2 cylinder but I’m not sure on how to remove it. #1 & #2 are easy but #2 & #3 are covered by the venos system. Do you know how to remove #2 & #3 spark plug tubes ? Cheers
Hi. I want to buy a TIS which included bmw e46 318i 2002 (n42b20 engine) but I dont know which to buy. I really need WDS to trouble shoot electronic problems that I’m having. Any suggestion?
hello! with what viscosity does the n42 valvetronic engine from 2003 work? and what oil is indicated? my car has 250,000 km? is it true or false that if the car has more than 250 km, thicker oil is needed or is it a myth?
Hi BMW doctor. Is there any chance you could demonstrate or even give instructions on how to bleed the cooling system on these engines? It has two bleed screws with one of them being at the oil cooler which is higher than the expansion tank itself. There's not one instructional video on the entire internet on how to do it.
i have a bmw 3l8i e46 the problem i am facing with my bmw is long shifting gear and even if its changes the gears there will be a banging sound between diff,propshaft and the gearbox...what is the problem here any advise...
N46 is inline 4 cylinder basic petrol engine. No Turbo, no compression, still has enough power to drive easily. Mine passed 400 000km in less than 14 years. Still driving like a champ. Of course people who have no issues would not visit here, they will just continue to drive and ignore. This engine is pretty basic, if the engine starts to fail it was probably misused or it was problematic straight from factory. My 2 bits on this, its too harsh to say this is bad engine, lets do a comparison on Fiat or Chevrolet or maybe Opel 4 cylinder engines. Yes, 6 cylinder N52 is much much better but it costs more and needs more money to tank it because of bigger fuel consumption. Of course 1.8 is pretty sluggish for this big car so it's not fair to compare them with 2.0 like theyre same engine. N42 was produced just for short period of time whereas n46 was from 2004 to 2015. If we skip part step there next engine for this range was developed by PSA Peugeot Citroën and BMW together. I highly doubt these newer engines would win over N46 for reliability.
I agree with you, I got both the e92 n52 engine and the e46 n42 and there’s a big difference in fuel consumption in them. And also that there’s a lot of people that never watch this video that drives a perfectly fine n46. So I think that it is a big difference in how people drive and maintain their 318..
I don't really know how easy or hard it is to work on an N42 engine, I personally have never tried working on an engine ever, but I do understand how it works, how to take it apart and put it back together. However I've had 3 mechanics refuse to work on my engine, when it was burning oil, one said that he needs special tools which he does not have, the other 2 said they do not wish to touch another N42.
The CCV return hose to the dipstick tube can easily be disconnected from underneath (front left wheel area) without having to lift the car. But what I will say in relation to the N46 engine is "OIL CHANGE" Change the oil as often as possible to prevent internal issues.
Great vids dean I had a 120i loseing coolant could not find leak anywhere had a sniff test done head gasket gone internal. Bolts snapped takeing head off So Got a used engine fitted, coolant keep going down again had test done again and guess what.. Head gasket gone again 🙈 BMW n46 never again!!!
Hi, someone know where I can get the manual service/electrical diagrams for the N42 engine?? I have been looking for a lot of time. I hope you can help me!
Is N46 really that bad ? I have fully rebuild mine N46 because previous owner didn't took care of it and got spun rod bearings. Now am thinking will it be reliable or not.
Hi am having problem with the same which I have no clue what is the cost ,when I start my car in the morning or if the engine is cold and I start to drive within a minute the engine goes off when I start it back then it ok
Hello man!! Do you know any website I can get from the service manual for the N46 and exactly N46B20U1 ? exactly I am looking for the bolts torque specs
I have a 318i which cuts out momentarily as if it dies then immediately drives normal again. This would throw the engine light and traction control light. Local mechanic ran diagnostic on it and every code came back to voltage. He inspected the battery and leads and says it needs new battery leads as they were corroded. Have you any experience with this type of fault?
i have this n46 engine on my E90, the engine stops when im waiting on the red light. before it stops is making rough idle, i don’t have problems with that while driving. it stops more often when is hot outside, in the winter is after 30 minutes.
I had a problem similar to that. Put all new coils on it. Spark plugs. And changed the oil as was leaking. But now tryna chase the blue smoke problem. Gonna start with oil level sensor as it's going 🥺 more sir every 5min. Gonna change the vaccum pump gasket. Rocker cover gasket. And the vanos solenoids. Failing that I'm just gonna get some forte seal conditioner off this guy 😅
Love your videos mate!! Working with a N46 now, can you explain why this engine runs good when it’s cold? With other engines you always get some smoke during startup if the seal stems are bad. On this N46 the smoke appears when it reaches real working temperature. My thoughts now goes to a bad MOSFET in the DME module. What are your thoughts? Regards! /R
No mate nothing to do with DME AT ALL!!!! this engine never suffered issues with DME that is valve stem seals or head gasket reason it Runs good when cold is because it’s not running on the sensors it in open loop when up to temp it runs in closed loop on the sensors
I dont agree. We have had N46 engine since brand new from april 2005. Currently mileage is 277.000km/172.000miles. Parts replaced: Vanos wheels 10 years ago+new tensioner. Timing chain kit 2 years ago, but there was nothing wrong. Replaced because many people said that they will fail. No,. parts were 9/10 condition. When engine was open, eccentric shaft + camshafts were like new. No wear or anything wrong. Never had any problems with valvetronic. None, zero. Original CCV.. No oil consumption, no oil steam seal problems.
My 320i 2007 has 204,000kms with lots of repairs namely...new timing chain and guides...new valve stem seals...new sump gasket...new water pump..new thermostat...well basicly whole cooling system fixed was 2 coolant leaks plus 3 oil leaks.. It's now running like new and a pleasure to drive again. Don't give up on them they just need some love and preventative maintenance. I love the feel just being in a BMW.
@@semklm7579 I am not sure if my cooling system is fine or not. Coolant temperature goes up to 108 Celsius degree. Is it normal? Do you have the same temperature?
@@JJJJuliennHun as soon as the temperature goes above 100 degrees, you know there’s something wrong. I’m working on my 1 series 118i at the moment because of the same thing. When i find the problem, i will let you know.
The N42 is fine for every day driving. Like normal road use. But if you have a heavy right foot like me and tend to floor it a lot you want that straight 6 under the bonnet. I beat on my 320ci every day and it takes it with no issue even on 259k miles
Thanks for the Video Mate :) Q1. What engine Oil is best to use when you want to prevent valve stem seal wear ? (N42) Q2. What brand of vanos solenoid is the best to use to replace it ? or is it best to fork out on a OEM BMW part ?
I have got 57 plate 318i N46B20B..... MY Engine Management Light is ON and the code is 2CF8 DME Throttle Valve Potentiometer..... Can you please help... what needs to be replaced or shall I come to your garage. Is anyone here who can help. Cheers
Hey Dr. Dean, hope you're safe and well. I found your video very informative has I have recently purchased about 3 months ago a 2006 E46 318Ci Convertible Automatic, it had a FSH with 8 stamps in BMW Service Book until, it's last service on 22/9/17 at 82,809 miles. Since having the car I've given it a service myself ie, replaced oil, fuel & air filters, drive belt, spark plugs & a brand new battery. The performance has not improved and still drives sluggish no power. Your BMW N42/N46 Engine Reliability 2020 video seems to address a lot of the issues I'm now facing, my dilemma now is Dr. Dean, is it worth spend money hundreds of pounds on the N46B20 engine and if so how much?? your help/advice would be well appreciated.
hello i dont know if i reach you in time since you comment 2 years ago so if you by any chance still have your e46, my advice is dont spent a dime on your n46 and get a swap by a 6 cylinder low milage engine.
Hello my problem is that the car accelerates very poorly up to 2000rpm and after exceeding 2000rpm the car accelerates well the engine is N46B18A BMW E46 2004 sedan please help
I've got a problem when my car goes into limp mode it also gone up with the codes. P1050 and p1062 what do you think would cause this. I've heard a few people saying it's the valvetronic motor?
i have a z4e85 2.0i n46b20b the car is from 2007 and has 294,500 km, only the alternator has been changed. n46b20 mounts a map thermostat at 105° and turns quietly between 106° and 108° they are normal temperatures in fuel economy. if you accelerate the temperature drops. I have never followed the BMW coupons but I have always changed the oil every 7000/8000 km because at these temperatures the oil degrades before the replacement decided by BMW. If you change often it stays clean and well lubricated. my engine is ok. I would like to change the operating temperatures, in my opinion they must be slightly lower, just below 100°. I would like to install a map thermostat at 95°. all n46 n43 problems are due to the high temperatures of the coolant and therefore of the engine. That's why broken chains drive broken plastic chains leaking oil leaking coolant and cooked valve rubbers.
Hello please I need some help, I got this car with the N46 engine but the gear box made me never to enjoy a smooth ride, it's an automatic gearbox and each time it changes gear it feels like I got hit from the rear or it forces itself to change gears making the engine work under too much pressure. I bought a gear box and changed it, yet the new one changes the same way the old one does, no mechanic has been able to figure it out and the funniest thing, the cog light is always on but the gear changes rough. Can anyone help out with a solution. Thank you
Hello my friend i hope i help you ,connect your bmw to an OBD and check what cause the cog light, in August 2022 i went a trip with my bmw e46 n46 and suddenly the cog light appeared then the gears went like crazy i was far away from home i called my mechanic and said the car went to safe mode i though it was the gearbox i took 2 hours to go home i was driving so slow on the highway and the gears was kicking like crazy . So i thought it was the gearbox but it wasn't , it was the valvetronic motor has failed my mechanic said it was old and it changed it and solve the problem ,if you start the car and then later the cog gear appears and the car is starting to kick when it's changing gear that means it is your valvetronic motor had failed be sure to check that.
I have a e90 318i with the n46b18 and the engine missfire when I get of the throttle but after idling awhile the missfire stops. I get 29CF (misfire C3) and 29CC (misfire several cylinders) and 29CE (misfire C2). Ive changed 2 coils and moved them around but nothing happens and replaced all sparkplugs (there is spark on all of them). Also moved around the injectors and tested injectors from other cars but no difference. Last time I checked I also had 2A70 (Valvetronic, plausibility: sporadic current fluctuations), I've changed the valvetronic motor but that didn't help. This feels like it could be connected or could it be something else? Any ideas will be will bevery helpfull because I don't know what more I could test. I guess I should mention that I've replaced the timing chain because the chain tensioner broke, but the fault was there before.
Alexander Söderlund my first step would be to look at live data on a scan tool. See if the fuel trims look ok . If you see the long and short term fuel trims are positive I would have the intake system smoke checked for any vacuum leaks. Also monitor the pre and post cat oxygen sensors and see if they are operating correctly.
Авто/Мото
My E46 with N46 1.8 , 290.000Km, not single problem,ever..
😳
Hi mate, what oil do you actually use ? and what is your climat .
Im using 5w30 and some times I have blue puffs from exhaust
@@ahmadkheiro735 bro u should use 5w 40 and u are burning oil check ur piston rings
@@ahmadkheiro735 liqui moly toptec 4100 5w40, and ceratec additive..a had no puffs from exhaust, every iis ok
@@ahmadkheiro735 if you have blue smoke, especially after few minutes on idle, its the valve stem oil seals. I’m just after doing them.
Wish you released this video 2 years ages, you just solved a problem I’ve had since I brought my Bmw. Cheers bro!
I drive an18years old N42 with 183000km,
Mostly on Highways. No problems only oil leakage... Makes still fun!
Cheers ja Brother got a n42b18 with a happy 230000km drives it every day ;)
>18years old
> with 183000km
ahahah.
What maintenance did you do to the engine?
Another very common item on these engines is the vacuum pump leaking oil on to the exhaust manifold.
People then replace the rocker cover gasket and the smell of burnt oil is still there.
Before replacing the rocker cover gasket use a small mirror and check the vacuum pump is not the culprit .
More often than not you will see the oil leaking from the vacuum pump cover.
Also if you have a rattle when you first start, the top plastic guide will be broken and the rattle will result in the timing guide insert falling out and being chewed up by the crankshaft sprocket. This results in small pieces of plastic in the sump. These then get sucked up by the oil pump and they starve the engine of oil. This will seize the engine. I personally have seen this on 5 occasions.
If you have an n42 or n46 you probably have a lot of small bits of plastic timing guide in your sump.
Remember to do a chain you need to lock the balance shafts. Always remove the sump and clean it out, and most importantly clean out the oil pick up tube.
Should you replace the seals on vacuum pump or replace it? I have this issue
@@HuskkM8 seals
What about rattle when lightly reving engine
@sportshatch no plastic in my sump. 100k miles.
Thanks for this video. I’m absolutely clear the issue with my 2006 320i burning oil and having smoke when idle is valve stem seals.
Finally found a video with what I wanted to know! Thanks man! 😀👍 Sub'ed!!
I have N46B20BD its been 18 months driving it, every weekend of those 18 months I travel over 400km. Its the most reliable engine when I compare to my mates with N52 and N54 engines. The valve stem seals and valvetronic motor indeed are notorious on that engine, I have had to get those replaced. Other than that, its fun to drive that engine and it has great fuel economy too especially on the highway/motorway.
Sounds good for a 4 pot too
Mechanical water pump instead of electric which always fails on the n54 😂
I am so glad to hear this
I am so glad to hear this
bro thank you you are amazing ,you just ansered and freed up so much in my head .been doing my head in nowing but boudtig and what ifs . solid info thank you
Great summary! Pretty much sums up all my problems I've had with this engine and gives me an idea of what to do as preventative maintenance or what to look for when it goes bad again.
I own an e46 318i 2003 , and it suffered from nothing at all . I got it at 93000 km and I had to change the valve stem seals , plus the car had the wrong engine oil in it , perhaps 15w40 . So far , nothing is wrong , but I did replace one camshaft sensor and the car drove like new again
I like these engines they keep me busy always repairing and replacing
Valve stem seals
Timing chain & guides
Eccentric shafts & Intermediate levers is crazy doing these 3 to 4 times per month
Its that frequent?
Maybe you doing things wrong mate ...
definitely, that many times a month is a joke
@@meth9654
Very interesting video, Dean. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Dean!
Thanks my BMW doctor, I got 2011 E90 N46 120 000, white smoke the other day thought someone bumped me at the back 😄 it's exactly how you explained. I hate that I love my Beemer
I’ve had an e46 318i with N42 engine for 17 years, and I will never recommend that engine to anyone. It’s sluggish and unreliable. I’ll admit I haven’t had any major engine issues yet because I do preventive maintenance very often, much more often than usual; and because the car has only done 130,000 km, which is quite low for a 17-year old car. I have an E60 with the N52 engine, and in my opinion the N52 is the superior engine in every area and is much more reliable. I’ve had the E60 for 11 years and it’s had a lot less issues than the E46. Oh and the fuel consumption of the N42B20 isnt much better than the N52B30. So if anybody wants to buy an E46, just forgo this engine and go with the 6 cylinder model. I used to own one with the M54 engine and it was more reliable and the performance is on a whole another level.
And what about 318i E46 with N46 engine?
@@keysersoze3062
It's more or less the same engine but for some minor differences.
I had an E46 with N42B20 for 9 years and did 170k to 275k kilometers, never replaced the chain or valve stem seals and overall very minimal egine issues, apart from the crankshaft speed sensor and the two camshaft sensors that failed. After that I bought an X3 E83 with the N46B20 engine and only 180k kilometers and it immediately needed valve stem seals and a new chain, as it was smoking and the chain had a lot of play. Luckily the garage payed for the repairs. But that just goes to show that how you drive your car makes a huge impact on the engine health.
What oil you were using on the n42 e46 ? 5w30 or 5w40 castrol
Thanks
You are great! Thank you!
Please keep seeding us with this knowledge brother... Thanks alot
thank you Dr.Dean, was cracking my head about this engine. Mine is the N46B20B double vanos, very helpful information. (two thumbs up and salute).
Thanks for the video, I have the N42B20 engine, had a head gasket go on it so did a full top end service including valve stem seals. Very easy engine to work on. Question I have is about the vanos, you mentioned about cleaning it, but renewing the solenoids. How would you go about cleaning the cam adjuster? Are they serviceable? I’m getting a lot of low down missing and hesitation under load but fine top end.
appreciated the effort god bless you
excellent clip - wow...so much information in a couple of minutes that will probably cost a ton if done at a workshop or by mechanic
You frightened the hell out of me!
true! but the timing chain replacement is a lot of work! the balance shafts needs to be locked in the oilpan. so the front suspension needs to come of so the engine needs to hang in a engine support!
Very good overview. I think the N42 goes into the same category as the vw 16v DOCH engine. Not very reliable and too experimental. N42 engine has also a problem with 0-rings leaking(specially the vacuum pump) and the burning smell of oil I know too well. If it-s over 17 years old it should get a total engine rebuild. Bad timing chain is a issue, plastic parts are sometimes broken to do excessive heath and old age. Over all it take a lot of patience to keep the N42 running.
I showed up right on time!
Mate I’m so glad you made this video. I have an issue with my N42 and crackshaft position sensors. I’ve replaced them both the low side (B) has been replaced 3 times now and it’s works for a short period then fails. Any clues?
Very helpful video. Thanks for posting.
Yeees! I have it 5 years ago and its so hard to find good manuals about that. As a mechanic I give you a big thank you! Anyway can you speak a bit slow haha UK boys ;)
brother i have an n42 318ci and sometimes when im at the traffic lights my car doesnt take even im on my gas pedal with full force. i have an automatic. if i change to N it gets normal immediatly and i can drive whats the solution?
Hey man, I hope you can help me.
Sometimes when the automatic gearbox shifting up from first to second, the gear makes punch and noise from the gearbox, and falls into error mode (service mode that only 4 gear works). There are no errors from the gearbox during scanning, there is only a vvt error on scanner , can this be related?
And should I try to just replace the vvt motor?
Thanks, I'm waiting for your opinion.
THNXS!
Thanks great video. I think I have a problem with my vanos to . Is it possible to measure the oil pressure whit a regulair oil meter ? Is there a spot where I can hook it up without dissembling the the alternator and the intake ?
hi, can you tell me please if this engine is interference or non interference because I rotated the shafts and there is no resistance, it will bend valves when timing chain is broken ? the pistons have that holes where the valves could get in and it will take no damage right ? thank you!
Great videos mate, common problems people can save a fortune on.
Dean I have a suggestion mate, a video on low priced entry level BMW's for people not afraid to do some wrenching themselves.
That’s easy mate M54 engine
@@BMWDoctor I knew it lol
I have a 2006 bmw 325i after I watched your videos about 5 series I bought a 2007 bmw 525xi both are great cars
your welcome mate and I hope it serves you well
BMW Doctor you are a big help
Thanks matey. Has put me off buying e87 with this engine. I think the N13 engine in f20 is a safer (if initially more expensive) bet.
My VVT just went as well, and my rocket cover gasket, oil pan been leaking for a while also, oh and my valve stem seals are gone as iv already replaced the CCV, ill get round to all that when i fix the weather seal in the door and the blocked heater matrix and my knocking driveshaft! I love my N46 lol
Lot a helpful video
Yes bmw doctors amazing vid, I have my 320i originally was getting misfire codes on cyl 1,2 and 3 with running rich codes. I changed my spark plugs, coils and injectors. After changing the injectors was running fine until after 2-3 mins of idling now I’m getting running lean codes and an absurd amount of white smoke pouring out of the exhaust. Local mechanic says it can be my piston rings. Completely lost in this journey of trying to fix it
Probably valve stem seals or the DISA valve causing the running lean
Have you done a same video about the m54b25 or b30?
Holly shit how many coffees do you have a day!! Great job man!
A lot of the issues you mentioned are in regard of valvetronic, does it mean that the N45 (the one on the 116i without valvetronic) is reliable?
Excellent thanks, could I ask if you could slow down your speech a little for us older geezers? Cheers
thank you for bringing us up-to speed Dr.
Hello sir, I assembled the n42 engine, it starts, it works, it goes well. small camshaft engine, no more errors? is now the same again. And as for now, after the diagnosis, it seems to me that a rattle is heard in the area of the third ridge
Can i just fit in a different engine? Seems like its hell of a problem.. if so, what engine can i fit into my 2005 320i?
Thank you thank you thank you,iv been looking for information on my ñ46 and I believe you have just covered the issues I have currently , as I have fault codes Motronic MEV 9.2 - 29cc combustion failure multiple cylinders , 29ce cylinder 2 ,29cf cylinder 3
AND I have found oil on my spark plugs , so if I understand your video correctly it's very likely to be the value stem seals leaking and foaling the plugs coursing a combination failure? I also blow blue after sitting at a idle for a bit then it clears, can you please confirm or advice regarding my summary?
The car is 318ci , n46b20 .
Hi. My n46 from 2004 loses power after heating. What to check. There are no bugs. New flow meter. New candles. The coils last several months
So I bought e46 318i. I got the rubber housing of the engine changed and so far it runs rather smooth. I guess i got really luckly
Hello
My E46 318 ci 2002 Works with 3 cylinders. The engine is healthy. Where does the problem come from?
N42 318ci 2002 bought owned it from new. Still on its original spark plugs, coolent. Only now I have the dreaded 3 lights on ( Abs, handbrake light and Asc). I am hoping it's the Abs speed sensor. The car still drives as smooth as day 1. There is oil leak coming from the vaccum pump area but it 's a common problem with these engine. So not bad for 18 years of driving.
You have had you car for 18 years from new and neglected to do much of the basic maintenance on it. I have to say that that is certain testament to the fact that some of these engines can be reliable but... Take better care of your car ;)
I had the same combination of lights that turned out the be a communication issue between the throttle body and DME. The DSC throws a fit because it cant control the engine torque when the traction control is activated. I hope yours is just a wheel speed sensor :)
@@jasong9801 The lights went out by itself. I believe this was due to the car not being driven over the start of the pandemic and my battery was completely drained. The issue almost certainly started since then. Replaced with a new Exide battery and the lights have not come back.
One thing I have noticed is a leak on the oil sump, looks like needs a new gasket.
New designs have there problems. Good info for the guys that have that engine. 👍
This is old engines mate these engines were produced from 1996 to 2007
We have a 318ci msport convertible with this engine, vastly underpowered for the weight of the car.
We were advised to get the straight 6 but thought it’d be cheaper with insurance and petrol consumption, we should have listened 😆
good video as always, I have a N46N engine from Mexico, and just replace the valve cover gastket ans vanos o-rings, And it is like you said I need to find info from EU because it's hard to obtain info for it on this side of the globe.
Alguna recomendación??cuanto te costo cambiarlas?, Estoy con un 120i que anda gastando mucha gas y creo que es el vanos.
Was looking at buying an 11 year old z4 with this engine, so glad I fo this video, 2.5 or 3.0 any better?
I've got an 120i with the n46 engine, we replaced water pipes that lead to the oil filter I believe (not sure). After the fix we turned it on and it won't rev passed 1500 rpm,what could be the problem??
I love the torque of my 318i e46!!!
Good torque
Exactly, my N46’s valvetronic motor is shattered, and it also leaks a lot of oil (common for a lot of BMWs) and also there is a coolant leak which I don’t know is common for any others.
I've got 142,000 km and no coolant leaks yet. I have replaced gaskets and valve stem seals but that's about it
Planning to buy a second hand 320i can I email the service history and get a recommendation on the same? Thank you
Only thing I am learning looking into newer BMWs is that when my M20 and M30s one day are all worn out will I no longer drive any bmw
Love it... keep it up man main reason my bmw is still outside!!
Your welcome mate
BMW Doctor ok.... now since you’ve convinced me to get a 6 pot... I’ve found one someone wants to PX my n43 for a 325i n53 I’ve seen your n53 vid
I have done my timing chain coils and injectors and my car runs SMOOOTH. But I do want the 325, it does have a misfire on 2 and 3 and it is a cat d advice please and i know it needs a software update as I just called BMW
@@BMWDoctor please man, I have this prob with the 2850 2852 faulty codes on a n42b20, should I try cleaning/changing solenoids before I buy a new exentric cam shaft sensor?? Its really expensive, and my mechanic told me I should continue driving thr car with these codes, been doing this 2 years now...he cant recalibrate vvt little motor if the errors are present....: (( what is ur opinion? It's weird I dint have check engine but like u said sometimes at red light while idling I feel like she shaking tail a little...ps I just had valve stems replaced....and when he saw valvetronic he said the little cog is stuck in a weird position....
Hi mate, I have a leaking spark plug tube seal on #2 cylinder but I’m not sure on how to remove it. #1 & #2 are easy but #2 & #3 are covered by the venos system. Do you know how to remove #2 & #3 spark plug tubes ? Cheers
So which is the best engine to buy Z4 E85 (2003-2008)?
Hi. I want to buy a TIS which included bmw e46 318i 2002 (n42b20 engine) but I dont know which to buy. I really need WDS to trouble shoot electronic problems that I’m having. Any suggestion?
P2187 and P2189 on this engine can u help me out where to start sir?thanks in advance very helpful vid
hello! with what viscosity does the n42 valvetronic engine from 2003 work? and what oil is indicated? my car has 250,000 km? is it true or false that if the car has more than 250 km, thicker oil is needed or is it a myth?
What tips do you have for 320d e46 m47 engine got boost issues ssluggish at times when warm?
Hi BMW doctor. Is there any chance you could demonstrate or even give instructions on how to bleed the cooling system on these engines? It has two bleed screws with one of them being at the oil cooler which is higher than the expansion tank itself. There's not one instructional video on the entire internet on how to do it.
i have a bmw 3l8i e46 the problem i am facing with my bmw is long shifting gear and even if its changes the gears there will be a banging sound between diff,propshaft and the gearbox...what is the problem here any advise...
For anyone that replaced the stem seals can you please tell me how much did it cost you?
N46 is inline 4 cylinder basic petrol engine. No Turbo, no compression, still has enough power to drive easily. Mine passed 400 000km in less than 14 years. Still driving like a champ. Of course people who have no issues would not visit here, they will just continue to drive and ignore. This engine is pretty basic, if the engine starts to fail it was probably misused or it was problematic straight from factory. My 2 bits on this, its too harsh to say this is bad engine, lets do a comparison on Fiat or Chevrolet or maybe Opel 4 cylinder engines. Yes, 6 cylinder N52 is much much better but it costs more and needs more money to tank it because of bigger fuel consumption. Of course 1.8 is pretty sluggish for this big car so it's not fair to compare them with 2.0 like theyre same engine. N42 was produced just for short period of time whereas n46 was from 2004 to 2015. If we skip part step there next engine for this range was developed by PSA Peugeot Citroën and BMW together. I highly doubt these newer engines would win over N46 for reliability.
I agree with you, I got both the e92 n52 engine and the e46 n42 and there’s a big difference in fuel consumption in them. And also that there’s a lot of people that never watch this video that drives a perfectly fine n46. So I think that it is a big difference in how people drive and maintain their 318..
What maintenance have you done?
The N46 has a MECHANICAL water pump too! N52 is typically electric on the newer e90,e92 and it fails ending with a huge repair bill
I don't really know how easy or hard it is to work on an N42 engine, I personally have never tried working on an engine ever, but I do understand how it works, how to take it apart and put it back together. However I've had 3 mechanics refuse to work on my engine, when it was burning oil, one said that he needs special tools which he does not have, the other 2 said they do not wish to touch another N42.
The CCV return hose to the dipstick tube can easily be disconnected from underneath (front left wheel area) without having to lift the car.
But what I will say in relation to the N46 engine is "OIL CHANGE"
Change the oil as often as possible to prevent internal issues.
Yeah these engines are sensitive to bad oil
Great vids dean
I had a 120i loseing coolant could not find leak anywhere had a sniff test done head gasket gone internal.
Bolts snapped takeing head off
So Got a used engine fitted, coolant keep going down again had test done again and guess what..
Head gasket gone again 🙈
BMW n46 never again!!!
Exactly that mate and I think the majority of people say that once they owned one lol
Hi, someone know where I can get the manual service/electrical diagrams for the N42 engine?? I have been looking for a lot of time. I hope you can help me!
Is N46 really that bad ? I have fully rebuild mine N46 because previous owner didn't took care of it and got spun rod bearings. Now am thinking will it be reliable or not.
Hi bro my bmw e46 2005 has a cold cutoff problem wat is causing that...can u assist in advising wat is causing that issue sir
Bmw x3 3.0 sd 2008 sd any good?
Boss just wanna ask where can i find the bov if n46bn20? Thanks
Hi am having problem with the same which I have no clue what is the cost ,when I start my car in the morning or if the engine is cold and I start to drive within a minute the engine goes off when I start it back then it ok
Hello man!!
Do you know any website I can get from the service manual for the N46 and exactly N46B20U1 ? exactly I am looking for the bolts torque specs
I have a 318i which cuts out momentarily as if it dies then immediately drives normal again. This would throw the engine light and traction control light. Local mechanic ran diagnostic on it and every code came back to voltage. He inspected the battery and leads and says it needs new battery leads as they were corroded. Have you any experience with this type of fault?
Crankshaft position sensor
i have this n46 engine on my E90, the engine stops when im waiting on the red light. before it stops is making rough idle, i don’t have problems with that while driving. it stops more often when is hot outside, in the winter is after 30 minutes.
I had a problem similar to that. Put all new coils on it. Spark plugs. And changed the oil as was leaking. But now tryna chase the blue smoke problem. Gonna start with oil level sensor as it's going 🥺 more sir every 5min. Gonna change the vaccum pump gasket. Rocker cover gasket. And the vanos solenoids. Failing that I'm just gonna get some forte seal conditioner off this guy 😅
Love your videos mate!! Working with a N46 now, can you explain why this engine runs good when it’s cold? With other engines you always get some smoke during startup if the seal stems are bad. On this N46 the smoke appears when it reaches real working temperature. My thoughts now goes to a bad MOSFET in the DME module. What are your thoughts? Regards! /R
No mate nothing to do with DME AT ALL!!!! this engine never suffered issues with DME that is valve stem seals or head gasket reason it
Runs good when cold is because it’s not running on the sensors it in open loop when up to temp it runs in closed loop on the sensors
BMW Doctor Thx! Make sense! No offense mate but maybe we guys also need a diagnose working all night long? 🤪💪
Great video. How does the N45 compare to these engines in terms of reliability? Could one expect less problems due to the lack of direct injection?
N46 isn't direct injection that's n43 and your n45 is an n46 without the valvetronic
I dont agree.
We have had N46 engine since brand new from april 2005.
Currently mileage is 277.000km/172.000miles.
Parts replaced: Vanos wheels 10 years ago+new tensioner. Timing chain kit 2 years ago, but there was nothing wrong.
Replaced because many people said that they will fail. No,. parts were 9/10 condition.
When engine was open, eccentric shaft + camshafts were like new. No wear or anything wrong.
Never had any problems with valvetronic. None, zero. Original CCV..
No oil consumption, no oil steam seal problems.
You're lucky, I hope my e90 will also reach this mileage... What symptoms made you change your Vanos wheels?
My 320i 2007 has 204,000kms with lots of repairs namely...new timing chain and guides...new valve stem seals...new sump gasket...new water pump..new thermostat...well basicly whole cooling system fixed was 2 coolant leaks plus 3 oil leaks..
It's now running like new and a pleasure to drive again.
Don't give up on them they just need some love and preventative maintenance.
I love the feel just being in a BMW.
@@semklm7579 I am not sure if my cooling system is fine or not. Coolant temperature goes up to 108 Celsius degree. Is it normal? Do you have the same temperature?
@@JJJJuliennHun as soon as the temperature goes above 100 degrees, you know there’s something wrong. I’m working on my 1 series 118i at the moment because of the same thing. When i find the problem, i will let you know.
@@JJJJuliennHun100-110 degrees is fine for this engine.
The N42 is fine for every day driving. Like normal road use. But if you have a heavy right foot like me and tend to floor it a lot you want that straight 6 under the bonnet. I beat on my 320ci every day and it takes it with no issue even on 259k miles
Any ideas on the cost to change the valve stem seals for the N46 engine on the UK
hi all.I think I will buy e90 320 2.0 Answer me Is he bad?
Thanks for the Video Mate :)
Q1. What engine Oil is best to use when you want to prevent valve stem seal wear ? (N42)
Q2. What brand of vanos solenoid is the best to use to replace it ? or is it best to fork out on a OEM BMW part ?
Really want the answer to Q2
I have got 57 plate 318i N46B20B..... MY Engine Management Light is ON and the code is 2CF8 DME Throttle Valve Potentiometer..... Can you please help... what needs to be replaced or shall I come to your garage. Is anyone here who can help. Cheers
Hey Dr. Dean, hope you're safe and well. I found your video very informative has I have recently purchased about 3 months ago a 2006 E46 318Ci Convertible Automatic, it had a FSH with 8 stamps in BMW Service Book until, it's last service on 22/9/17 at 82,809 miles. Since having the car I've given it a service myself ie, replaced oil, fuel & air filters, drive belt, spark plugs & a brand new battery. The performance has not improved and still drives sluggish no power. Your BMW N42/N46 Engine Reliability 2020 video seems to address a lot of the issues I'm now facing, my dilemma now is Dr. Dean, is it worth spend money hundreds of pounds on the N46B20 engine and if so how much?? your help/advice would be well appreciated.
hello i dont know if i reach you in time since you comment 2 years ago so if you by any chance still have your e46, my advice is dont spent a dime on your n46 and get a swap by a 6 cylinder low milage engine.
Hello my problem is that the car accelerates very poorly up to 2000rpm and after exceeding 2000rpm the car accelerates well the engine is N46B18A BMW E46 2004 sedan please help
I've got a problem when my car goes into limp mode it also gone up with the codes.
P1050 and p1062 what do you think would cause this.
I've heard a few people saying it's the valvetronic motor?
Any luck
I've got the same codes, half engine light
N52 guy from the U.S. just watching out of curiosity
i have a z4e85 2.0i n46b20b the car is from 2007 and has 294,500 km, only the alternator has been changed. n46b20 mounts a map thermostat at 105° and turns quietly between 106° and 108° they are normal temperatures in fuel economy. if you accelerate the temperature drops. I have never followed the BMW coupons but I have always changed the oil every 7000/8000 km because at these temperatures the oil degrades before the replacement decided by BMW. If you change often it stays clean and well lubricated. my engine is ok. I would like to change the operating temperatures, in my opinion they must be slightly lower, just below 100°. I would like to install a map thermostat at 95°. all n46 n43 problems are due to the high temperatures of the coolant and therefore of the engine. That's why broken chains drive broken plastic chains leaking oil leaking coolant and cooked valve rubbers.
Yep heat is the primary cause of those things on all bmw engines.
Hello please I need some help, I got this car with the N46 engine but the gear box made me never to enjoy a smooth ride, it's an automatic gearbox and each time it changes gear it feels like I got hit from the rear or it forces itself to change gears making the engine work under too much pressure. I bought a gear box and changed it, yet the new one changes the same way the old one does, no mechanic has been able to figure it out and the funniest thing, the cog light is always on but the gear changes rough. Can anyone help out with a solution. Thank you
Hello my friend i hope i help you ,connect your bmw to an OBD and check what cause the cog light, in August 2022 i went a trip with my bmw e46 n46 and suddenly the cog light appeared then the gears went like crazy i was far away from home i called my mechanic and said the car went to safe mode i though it was the gearbox i took 2 hours to go home i was driving so slow on the highway and the gears was kicking like crazy . So i thought it was the gearbox but it wasn't , it was the valvetronic motor has failed my mechanic said it was old and it changed it and solve the problem ,if you start the car and then later the cog gear appears and the car is starting to kick when it's changing gear that means it is your valvetronic motor had failed be sure to check that.
Thanks for the information. I have an N42 engine which keeps misfiring even after changing the plugs and coils
That sounds like fun
So how can I fix the problem once and for all
set it on fire or push it off a cliff
Check Vanos Solenoids. That should do.
@@razorx6905 thanks man
Ayo im sensing the old bimmers "slight" issue are bigger then they seem
I have a e90 318i with the n46b18 and the engine missfire when I get of the throttle but after idling awhile the missfire stops. I get 29CF (misfire C3) and 29CC (misfire several cylinders) and 29CE (misfire C2). Ive changed 2 coils and moved them around but nothing happens and replaced all sparkplugs (there is spark on all of them). Also moved around the injectors and tested injectors from other cars but no difference. Last time I checked I also had 2A70 (Valvetronic, plausibility: sporadic current fluctuations), I've changed the valvetronic motor but that didn't help. This feels like it could be connected or could it be something else? Any ideas will be will bevery helpfull because I don't know what more I could test. I guess I should mention that I've replaced the timing chain because the chain tensioner broke, but the fault was there before.
Alexander Söderlund my first step would be to look at live data on a scan tool. See if the fuel trims look ok . If you see the long and short term fuel trims are positive I would have the intake system smoke checked for any vacuum leaks.
Also monitor the pre and post cat oxygen sensors and see if they are operating correctly.