Based on the N42B18 engine, the 1.6-liter BMW N45B16 engine was created in 2004. The new engine features a modified piston, new connecting rods, and a different crankshaft with a shorter piston stroke (72 mm instead of 81). Furthermore, the N45B16 does not use the Valvetronic valve lift system.
Candles are used, a new generator is used, and the cylinder head is covered again. Bosch ME 9.2, engine management system. Since 2007, the engine has undergone updates, a new Bosch ME17.4.5 control unit has been installed, and the name N45NB16 now includes the letter N.
BMW vehicles with this engine had an index of 16i. In addition to this engine, a 2-liter sports version known as the N45B20S was also manufactured for the limited edition N45 series.
Specifications
| Production years | 2004-2011 |
| Displacement, cc | 1596 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 116 /6000 rpm |
| Torque output, Nm | 150 /4300 rpm |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 72 |
| Compression ratio | 10.5 |
| Features | Bosch ME 9.2 (N45B16) Bosch ME 17.4.5 (N45NB16) |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | double VANOS |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4/5 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for 116i E87) — city — highway — combined |
8.8 4.9 6.2 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~320 000 |
Disadvantages of the N45B16 engine
The motor was knocked in. Issues are typically concealed by a malfunctioning timing chain tensioner. However, in theory, the chains have a short lifespan and can readily stretch once the vehicle has traveled more than 100,000 kilometers. Replacement is necessary.
Vibration when the speed is idle. The Vanos system malfunction could be the cause of the breakdown. As a result, it will require inspection and cleaning. A full replacement is feasible.
It should be mentioned that this series’ power unit has the potential to show a fuel mixture detonation. The low quality of the oil or fuel is the cause. The latter should only be from the BMW plant, which is the brand and series that the manufacturer himself recommends. If not, there’s a good chance that significant issues will arise, possibly leading to a significant overhaul.