Tearing Down A BMW: Overheating Demonstrated

Emission-Friendlier Engine: N26 vs N20 BMW

The BMW N26 engine, featured exclusively on North American models of the preceding 2 Series, 3 Series and 4 Series, can be pretty dependable with proper servicing. Sadly, that isn’t constantly the situation, as Eric from I Do Cars YouTube found out when he was presented with a broken motor to inspect what had gone wrong.

For the unacquainted, the N26 is an eco-friendly variation of the N20 four-cylinder engine, crafted to abide by SULEV laws. Its predecessor, the B48, was a turbocharged four-cylinder motor seen in lesser BMWs, Minis, and the Toyota GR Supra.

Eric commenced his teardown mission by spinning the handle to determine if it was blocked. The N26 motor rotated satisfactorily, indicative of a sound beginning, yet there were some unsettling signs of inattention. Numerous bolts had been forgotten about and the valve cover had sustained harm, baring the timing chain.

SKETCHY RETURN? Blown BMW N20 / N26 Comprehensive Engine Teardown

As Eric moved along with the deconstruction, he discerned that the oil filter was in satisfactory condition, whilst the valve gathering wasn’t necessarily problematic but rather somewhat unclean. What amazed him however, were the distinct bolts used in the motor.

Taking apart the intake and exhaust manifolds presented a pleasant surprise, the ports appearing to be in good condition. To remove the exhaust manifold also necessitated taking out the turbocharger, to which Eric took a closer look. Regrettably, it was evident the fins were bent.

Eric proceeded to take apart the crank pulley and timing setup in order to be able to separate the cylinder head from the engine block. He decided against dismantling the Valvetronic system of the brand as he wanted it to remain unaltered so it could retain its resale price.

Eric could tell at once that the cylinder head had been damaged when he saw that there were scorch marks in between the cylinders. This was the sign of a faulty head gasket, which usually results from an overheating engine- something Eric confirmed upon examining the melted heat tabs on said engine.

Eric took apart the oil pan and crankshaft unit at the termination of the taking apart. The crankshaft, bearings, and piston heads gave the appearance of being fine, although the upper sections of the cylinder barrels demonstrated signs of heating.

The steadfastness of an engine will forever be contingent on the way proprietors care for their automobiles. Overheating is certain to extinguish a power plant over time. Elements such as an inadequate cooling or lubrication system could cause temperatures to ascend beyond the conventional operating scope, which can be avoided with suitable upkeep.