The Mini B38A15A 1.5 liter turbocharged engine was developed by BMW as part of the B38 series and has been fitted to third-generation Mini cars since 2014. It is a three-cylinder engine that is used in the base modifications of Mini cars such as One First, One and Cooper. The engine combines modern technologies such as Valvetronic variable valve timing system, direct fuel injection and Continental turbocharging.
Engine specifications B38A15A 1.5 Turbo
| Parameter | One First | One | Cooper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Precise volume | 1499 cm³ | 1499 cm³ | 1499 cm³ |
| Power System | Direct injection | Direct Injection | Direct Injection |
| Power | 75 hp | 102 hp | 136 hp |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 190 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Cylinder block material | Aluminum R3 | Aluminum R3 | Aluminum R3 |
| Material of block head | Aluminum 12v | Aluminum 12v | Aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder diameter | 82 mm | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Piston stroke | 94.6 mm | 94.6 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Compression ratio | 11.0 | 11.0 | 11.0 |
| Engine features | Valvetronic, hydrocompensators | Valvetronic, hydrocompensators | Valvetronic, hydraulic compensators |
| Transmission timing | Chain | Chain | Chain |
| Fasoregulator | Inlet and exhaust | On two shafts | Two shafts |
| Turbocharged | Continental 7633795 | Continental 7633795 | Continental 7633795 |
| Recommended oil | 4.25 liters 5W-30 | 4.25 liters 5W-30 | 4.25 liters 5W-30 |
| Environmental class | EURO 6 | EBRO 6 | EBRO 6 |
| Example life | 270,000 km | 260,000 km | 250,000 km |
Which vehicles
This engine is fitted to the following third generation Mini models:
- Mini Clubman F54 (2015 to present)
- Mini Hatch 3-door F56 (2014 to present)
- Mini Hatch 5-door F55 (2014 to present)
- Mini Cabrio F57 (from 2016 to present)
- Mini Countryman F60 (2017 to present)
B38A15A engine disadvantages and problems
- Valve fouling and direct injection failures. Frequently owners complain of valve fouling problems and direct fuel injection failures.
- Thermomodule. Instead of the classic thermostat, the motor has a thermomodule, which can often fail.
- Valvetronic system and Vanos phase controllers. These systems, which ensure the efficient operation of the engine, can fail, especially on high-mileage vehicles.
- Support bearing failure. On rare occasions, a thrust bearing failure due to crankshaft axial play can occur, resulting in severe engine damage.
Awards associated with the B38A15A engine and its counterparts:
1. International Engine of the Year Awards
The B38 series engines have won numerous awards at the International Engine of the Year Awards. In particular, the version of the B38 engine used in the BMW i8 (hybrid system with this engine) was awarded the title of best engine in the “1.4-1.8 liter” category several years in a row. These awards are testament to the high level of innovation, efficiency and performance of the B38 engine family.
2. UK Car of the Year Awards
Mini models powered by the B38A15A engine have been recognized in the UK Car of the Year Awards. The Mini Cooper, for example, was praised for its combination of sporty dynamics and fuel efficiency, which is largely due to the B38A15A engine.
3. What Car? Awards
The Mini Cooper with the B38A15A engine received positive reviews at the What Car? Awards in the compact car category. Journalists noted the excellent fuel economy and performance of this small turbo engine, as well as its pleasant handling.
4. Green Car Awards
The B38 engine family, including the B38A15A, was recognized for its environmental performance. Mini models with this engine have participated in various sustainability-related competitions thanks to its low CO2 emissions and compliance with Euro 6 standards.
5. Auto Express Awards
The Mini Cooper with the B38A15A engine was recognized at the Auto Express Awards for its outstanding performance in its class, especially the balance between power and fuel economy, as well as the car’s high handling.
The B38A15A engine is a modern, fuel efficient unit with advanced technology, but requires timely maintenance to prevent potential problems.