The BMW N42 isa series of aluminum-block, DOHC, four-cylinder petrol engines, produced from 2001 to 2004 as a replacement for the M43 engine, featuring Valvetronic (variable valve lift) and Double VANOS (variable valve timing) for increased fuel efficiency and performance. It comes in 1.8L and 2.0L displacements and was used in BMW E46 compact models, such as the 318i. While praised for technology and economy, the N42 engine is known for several issues, including valve stem seal degradation, timing chain problems, and Valvetronic system failures, leading to high repair costs and a reputation for unreliability.
The complex Valvetronic system is prone to issues, including motor failure and wear on components like the eccentric shaft and rocker arms.
Weak tensioners in the early design could lead to timing chain issues.
These seals tend to dry out and become brittle, leading to oil consumption.
The engine is also susceptible to oil leaks, vacuum pump failures, and other electronic sensor breakdowns.
Despite its advanced technology, the engine’s complexity leads to higher repair costs.
The combination of Valvetronic, VANOS, and other components makes it less reliable than some other BMW engines.
The cost of fixing its numerous potential issues often outweighs the fuel savings, leading some to advise avoiding these engines.
The BMW N42 is a DOHC inline-4 petrol engine produced from 2001 to 2004, featuring Valvetronic and double VANOS, and was available in 1.8L (N42B18) and 2.0L (N42B20) displacements. Specifications include an aluminum block, aluminum head, a 84mm bore, and different strokes for the 1.8L (81mm) and 2.0L (90mm) variants, with the 2.0L model producing approximately 143 hp and 133 lb-ft of torque. The N42 was succeeded by the BMW N46 engine.
General Specifications
 and Double VANOS (variable valve timing) for increased fuel efficiency and performance. It comes in 1.8L and 2.0L displacements and was used in BMW E46 compact models, such as the 318i. While praised for technology and economy, […]){kind=link}
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