New
Mini / BMW N20B20 long bare timed engine
- Engine code
- N20B20
- Build
- Long bare, timed
- Warranty
- 12 months
Was AUD 7,200, now AUD 6,350
Engine code N20B20
N20B20 engines for sale
N20B20 engines, from $6,350. Tell us your vehicle and we check the fit before you pay.
Quick answer
N20B20 engine at a glance
| Vehicles | Ask us to check your vehicle |
|---|---|
| Capacity and fuel | 2 litre petrol |
| Engines we sell | 1 build |
Tell us your vehicle and we check the fit before you pay.
N20B20 engines we supply
Guide
Signs your N20B20 needs replacing
A rattle from the engine, especially at start-up, can point to chain wear; then the engine may not restart. Engine warning lights, a "drivetrain malfunction" message and reduced power can point to VANOS faults. A chain rattle on an N20 is a reason to stop and have it checked before it fails.
Read the N20B20 guide →
BMW N20B20 engine: vehicles, problems and replacement options
The N20B20 engine is BMW's 2.0 litre turbo four used across the 2011 to 2018 range. Its best-known problem is timing chain guides breaking up on earlier engines, which can wreck the engine if the chain jumps. We list a new timed N20B20 long motor at $6,350.
Prices as listed on our store on 15 October 2026.
What is the N20B20 engine?
The N20B20 is a 2.0 litre (1,997 cc) four-cylinder turbo petrol with an aluminium block, a twin-scroll turbo, double overhead camshafts, double VANOS cam timing, Valvetronic variable valve lift and direct injection. Chains drive the camshafts and the oil pump.
Which vehicles use the N20B20?
Our listing names Mini and BMW. Independent references list the N20 in the BMW 3 Series F30 (320i, 328i), 5 Series F10 (520i, 528i), 1 Series F20 125i, 2 Series F22 (220i, 228i), 4 Series, X1 E84, X3 F25, X4 and Z4 E89, from about 2011.
Model names and years overlap. So we check the fit from your VIN, series and current engine before we quote. See will this engine fit my vehicle.
What problems are reported with the N20B20?
These problems are reported in the sources listed below. Not every engine gets them. A symptom is not a diagnosis.
- Timing chain guides. On earlier N20s the plastic chain guides can break up, letting the chain loosen and jump teeth. Because valves and pistons share space in this engine, that can wreck it. BMW in the US extended cover on the chains for engines built to about February 2015. US cover only.
- VANOS faults. A BMW bulletin covered 320i and 328i built before July 2014 that could log camshaft timing faults and drop into reduced power; the fix included a software update.
- Water pump connector recall. A 2024 Australian recall covers liquid getting into the electric water pump plug on 2012 to 2018 F30s. The listing does not name the engine, so check by VIN.
What are the signs a N20B20 may need replacing?
A rattle from the engine, especially at start-up, can point to chain wear; then the engine may not restart. Engine warning lights, a "drivetrain malfunction" message and reduced power can point to VANOS faults. A chain rattle on an N20 is a reason to stop and have it checked before it fails.
Should you repair, rebuild or replace a N20B20?
A chain and guides replaced before they fail is a repair, though a big one on this engine. If the chain has jumped and the valves have hit the pistons, the engine needs a rebuild or replacement.
Our options, in short:
- Repair it, if the fault is in a part bolted to the engine, not the engine itself.
- Rebuild your own N20B20, if it is serviceable. We strip it, inspect it and give you a fixed quote. If not, there is a teardown fee for the labour.
- Replace it with a new long motor from our range below, from $6,350.
What N20B20 engines does Reco list?
Swipe across the table to see all columns.
| Listing | Build | Condition | Listed price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini BMW N20B20 New Timed Long Bare Engine For Sale | Long bare timed | New | $6,350 |
Freight is quoted per job. We fit engines at our Sydney and Melbourne workshops. Fitting jobs need a 50% deposit. Engine-only orders are paid in full before dispatch.
What should you ask before ordering a N20B20?
- Which BMW model and year is it? Check the code on the block reads N20.
- Has the timing chain been replaced before, and when?
- Did the chain jump, or is it still running?
- Do I want it fitted at your workshop, or sent to my mechanic?
Ask us about your N20B20
Use the enquiry form. Give us the make, model, year, series, rego and VIN, and say if you need it fitted. Or call 02 9737 0105. Quotes are valid for 30 days.
N20B20 FAQs
Should I replace or rebuild my N20B20?
We can assess your own engine for reconditioning. We strip, clean and inspect it to establish whether it is serviceable, then give a fixed rebuild quote. A teardown fee applies if it cannot be rebuilt. We also check replacement-engine options for your vehicle.
Can you fit a N20B20 for me?
Fitting is not included in the price and is quoted separately. Fitting is available at our Sydney and Melbourne workshops. We first check that the engine suits your vehicle.
How long does fitting take?
Fitting bookings depend on the workshop queue. Allow roughly one to three weeks, depending on the job and workshop availability. This is a guide, not a guaranteed completion time; confirm the timing for your vehicle when enquiring.