Choose wisely! BMW N45

This engine was produced between 2004 - 2011. Engine codes: 45B16, N45NB16, N45B20S. Models: BMW 116i, BMW 316i (E90), BMW 320si. Problems: the N45 engine series have had a bad reputation for their not too impressive performance (16i) + relatively high fuel consumption; it was producing way too much vibrations; unreliable chain type timing system; the ValveTronic variable cam timing system is missing from this series of engines; the wrongly adjusted chain tensioner is making the chain sticky which from that pont is capable of running over a few cogs and this is leading to serious service costs. Even later models suffer from this problem, they received a purpose shaped sheet of metal which was preventing the chain from getting loose, but it didn't solved the problem entirely. The 320si models are having a very thick cylinder wall, which often cracks.

320si