The only thing they have in common is that they are both 2L turbos. I will dyno it before mapping as it feels more like 200 bhp but I've been quoted 260 on the remap. Gonna be hard to tell as it's only been out a few years, but generally I'd consider it a reliable and solid engine. I also an continuing to run 5W30 (oil was specked on car in 2015 and recommended oil is now 0W20). The B48 in 20i and 30i models is looking to be an excellent engine thus far. Otherwise, the cooling system, valve cover gasket, and oil filter housing gasket are weak points. Overall, it is a reliable engine with a low maintenance cost. Were big fans of the JB4 as a starting tune since it allows precise boost control and lots of possibilities. The same can be said about turbo engines in general. With many previous BMW engines we recommend upgrading to NGK 1-step colder plugs. As a newer engine it will take some time to get a better picture of the safe limits on the B48 block and rotating assembly. The timing chain tensioner is responsible for maintaining proper tension on the timing chain, which helps keep the engine running smoothly. It's always a good idea to get a quote from a trusted mechanic before proceeding with any repairs, as this will give you an idea of what to expect in terms of cost. These are pretty common issues among almost all BMWs. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". The standard oil weight is 0W-20. At least when you compare the B48 and B58 reliability to that of the earlier N54, N55, N63, S65, etc. Read our post about N20 mods here: BMW N20 350hp. Required fields are marked *. The B48 top mount air-to-water intercooler uses a front mount heat exchanger to cool charge air temps. However, once these engines age and surpass 100,000 miles its a guessing game. That's about it. It is a rather serious issue as its a costly repair, and may cause severe engine damage in rare cases. This is not meant to be a knock towards the N20s performance. Some may shame BMW for cutting costs. Whether or not these upgrades are worth it on the B46/B48 is up for debate. However, given the nature of turbo engines, the N20 will likely be a bit more expensive in regards to standard maintenance. Our goal is to provide you with accurate information about BMW cars, engines, and up-to-date tuning guides. thanks so much for the write up. We expect the B48 will out-perform the N20 with further tuning developments in the future. What are your thoughts and experiences with the N20 and/or B48? Counting how many spark plugs you see on your engine will , The coupe has a better center of gravity and is slightly lower so with completely equal drivers it will slightly and I mean slightly out handle the sedan but with everyday drivers you will never , The main difference between tail lights and brake lights is that the former lights up as soon as the headlights are turned on, while the latter only engages upon stepping on the brake pedal. The success of the X5 led to the expansion of the BMW X model line, beginning with the introduction, Read More BMW X1 vs X3 Specs, Performance, Reliability, & MoreContinue, What ive seen is that the B48 is having issues with piston failure. The BMW B58 is a turbocharged straight-six engine, which began production in 2015. . The B58 engine was named Worlds 10 Best Engines in 2016 (installed in the 340i and 440i), 2016, 2018, and 2022 (M240i), X3 and X4 M40i, Z4 M40i, 2019 (X5) and 2019(M340i). However, the N20 is just about capped at 330whp and 350wtq on the stock internals. Source: . Stage 2 93 octane: up to 18% HP / 28% TQ One of the lines that connect to the turbocharger may start leaking oil. Both the N20 and B48 pack small 2.0L turbo engines that produce impressive power for their size. your BM3 estimated gain chart is incorrect, that is for the 35i B48 model that is already currently upgraded (tuned) to 302 hp. 320hp on the 10.2:1 (B48a20b). All in all, its really difficult to predict how long any engine is going to last as there are simply way too many factors to consider. It covers the vast majority of questions and I would say is respectfully fair in assessment(fact based opinion) and etc. Stage 1 91 octane: 16%HP / 20%TQ Its truly an excellent engine for its size. Theyre valid questions, however there is no perfect answer. Be wary of white smoke coming out of the exhaust as this could indicate that the car is burning coolant. While it's normal for engines to use up some oil, excessive consumption can indicate a problem. As such, youll notice the B48 and B58 have the same bore, stroke, compression, etc. Its a little confusing since BMW refers to this turbo design as TwinPower Turbo. Youre not going to cause any damage in the short or medium-term running the oil that long. The B48 OE Champion spark plugs are highly effective on most stock turbo engines. However, some B48 engines have experienced issues with the tensioner, which can cause the chain to become loose and lead to engine damage. Submit! JavaScript is disabled. T. TheNine90 192 Replies. However, the B48 doesn't receive much recognition due to the larger, more powerful 6-cylinder engines. 1) Is the BMW B48 engine prone to issues? The N20 does have a well known problem in the timing chain. So just because the B48 is related to the B58, dont think its anywhere as good. For most, it probably makes sense to upgrade to the turbo inline 6 engines if youre looking for 330+whp. As per the N20, the block and head are made from aluminium. Sir, thats an amazing article. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. As with the N20, the B48 comes slightly underrated from the factory. Otherwise, there isnt too much to talk about with B48 common failures. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. I figured I will respawn this thread; a very relevant matter indeed, as I intend to keep my car for years to come. That is not to say either engine is unreliable. Although, we expect the B48 will eventually suffer similar common problems as the N20, less the timing chain. If youre over 100,000 miles on your B48-powered BMW, a walnut blast is recommended. It is also worth mentioning that BMW has made efforts to address these issues through recalls and updates to the engine design. The Bavarians managed to squeeze out 154-255 HP and 250-400 Nm of torque from it. At least when you compare the B48 and B58 reliability to that of the earlier N54, N55, N63, S65, etc. Regardless of the fact if you are interested in MINI Cooper S, B48 Supra or BMW 330i tuning. Another representative of the modular family, the BMW B48 engine comes in the shape of a more compact four-banger. Your email address will not be published. Both can make over 300whp with tunes and basic bolt-ons. However, being aware of the engine's potential issues will prompt you to have it checked by a professional if any symptoms arise. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty spark plugs, a faulty fuel injector, or a clogged air filter. This and a good wastegate are what Im keeping an eye on. Ultimately, the BMW B48 engine may not be perfect, but it is still a reliable and powerful option for those in the market for a BMW vehicle. However, compression also increases on the B48 which isnt the greatest for strength on boosted engines. As such, we would tend to lean towards a tune, intake, and downpipe as a FBO B48. BMW B48 Engine Specs and Reliability. Another note, the B48 is a part of BMWs modular B series engine objective. Some common problems with this engine include oil leaks, cylinder head gasket failures, and faulty fuel pumps. Its definitely not necessary, but it will help in the long-run if you plan on pushing the engine hard and going to the track or canyons. B58 vs. S58 Horsepower & Torque. However, this likely comes down to many being under warranty with few modded. BMW reliability seems to be trending in the right direction, though. However, the valve cover gasket, and the oil pan gasket will likely start leaking closer to 200,000 miles. Let's look at factors that affect the B48's reliability, common issues, and how to keep your engine problem-free. Valve cover is the same. How much HP can a B48 handle? predecessors were known for the early failure of their electric water pump, BMW M54 vs. N52 Comparison: Horsepower, Reliability, Tuning, & Sound, BMW B58 vs. S58: Performance, Tuning, Reliability & Sound, BMW S65 vs. S85: Performance, Tuning, Reliability & Sound, BMW S55 vs. B58: Performance, Tuning, Internals, & Sound, is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. BMW 520d 2.0 Diesel Engine. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Not many have pushed the B48 too hard, yet. They last about twice as long. The more aggressive the tune and boost the bigger gains youll see. How do the BMW N20 and B48 engines stack up? At least when you compare the B48 and B58 reliability to that of the earlier N54, N55, N63, S65, etc. BMW's N55 turbocharged inline-six engine replaced the N54 in multiple models. It is a well maintained one at 130k miles. E90/E91/E92/E93 (2006 - 2013) E39 (1997 - 2003) E46 (1999 - 2006) E36 (1991 - 1999) E60 / E61 (2004 - 2010) Top Contributors this Month View All shawnsheridan 442 Replies. Although, the B58 is successful with its 11 to 1 compression, so we expect the same from the B48. If an issue leads to a recall, the owner can get the vehicle repaired at no cost at a BMW dealership. Introduced in 2011, the N20 began phasing out the N52 the following year. ago. . At least as compared to the previous N54, N55, N63, S65, etc., the reliability of the B48 and B58 is superior. Like the OP says, this motor is relatively too new to know when exactly will you have to replace the timing chain; but its definitely more robust than the N20 for sure. What is the difference between N47 and B47 engine? BMW B48 Reliability. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. For B48 you meant? Turbo + pump + intake + downpipe + plugs and youre making big power. The most powerful version, found in 28i models, makes 241hp and 258tq. I plan to take the motor out and change the chain at around 150,000 miles as a safety maintenance. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Leave a comment and let us know! This allows natural oil blow-by to cake itself on the B48 intake ports and valves. B48 BMS Dyno: 230.68 hp, BM3 on N20 Thanks. The limits of the B48 are still rather unknown. Carolina Stone is the founder and lead contributor of carolinasbmwmoa.org, a popular blog dedicated to all things about BMWs. Stage 2 91 octane: up to 16% HP / 28% TQ Nonetheless, well lay it out as straight forward as possible. Some have issues with coolant loss. The B48 is a 2.0L single turbo engine that is part of the BMW B series modular engines. Absolutely thrilled and cant wait for future content and updates! Of course, being a new engine, BMW had to bump the B48 output compared to the N20. Just past 55k miles on it. I've just clocked over 35,000 miles and it is still smooth and fast. Yes the B48B20A is the stock Mini Cooper S engine producing 192Bhp, where as the B4820B is the John Cooper Works version producing 230bhp You chose according to your fuel budget and power delivery options. Some of it simply comes down to the luck of the draw, maintenance, etc. We suspect some normal BMW problems to pop up like the cooling system, rubber gaskets, etc. 2. A different exhaust manifold uses six ports instead of six into two and revised pistons change the compression ratio from 11:1 to 10.2:1. . These shells help clean off carbon deposits without damaging the valves or ports. Toyota is also using the B48 engine in their Supra models. 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