BMW 116i E87 — Reliability
Reliability Summary
Engine Comparison
| Engine | Reliability Score | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
|
N42/N45/N46
1.6-2.0L NA I4 |
55/100 | CAUTION |
|
N43
N43 1.6/2.0 DI NA I4 |
54/100 | CAUTION |
Engines in this model
N42/N45/N46
1.6-2.0L NA I4
BMW four-cylinder of the E46/E87/E90 era. The timing chain and its short original tensioner are the ...
View details →N43
N43 1.6/2.0 DI NA I4
Direct-injection, naturally aspirated four (116i-120i, 316i-320i, 520i). The big risk is the timing ...
View details →Known Issues Across All Engines
| Issue | Engine | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Valvetronic eccentric shaft wear / actuator motor failure (N42, N46 — not N45) | N42/N45/N46 | high |
| Timing chain and tensioner wear | N42/N45/N46 | high |
| Oil consumption and leaks — valve stem seals, crankcase breather, vacuum pump, rings | N42/N45/N46 | high |
| VANOS solenoid and seal faults | N42/N45/N46 | moderate |
| Timing chain stretch and guide breakage — major engine damage | N43 | critical |
| Direct injector failure and coking | N43 | high |
| High-pressure fuel pump failure | N43 | high |
| NOx sensor failure | N43 | moderate |
| Ignition coil failure (2007-2008 cars, service action) | N43 | minor |
| Oil leaks — valve cover / crankcase ventilation, vacuum pump | N43 | minor |
| VANOS solenoid failure | N43 | minor |
FAQ
Is the BMW 116i reliable?
The BMW 116i has 2 engine options with reliability scores ranging from 54/100 (CAUTION) to 55/100 (CAUTION). Average reliability: 54/100.
Which BMW 116i engine is most reliable?
The N42/N45/N46 is the most reliable engine in the BMW 116i, scoring 55/100 (CAUTION).
What problems does the BMW 116i have?
Across all engine variants, the BMW 116i has 11 known issues. The most common are related to Valvetronic eccentric shaft wear / actuator motor failure (N42, N46 — not N45), Timing chain and tensioner wear, Oil consumption and leaks — valve stem seals, crankcase breather, vacuum pump, rings.