The 1.4 liter N12B14A engine was produced by BMW from 2007 to 2010 at a plant in England. This engine was fitted to base versions of Mini cars, including the Mini One and Mini Clubman in the R56 and R55 bodies. In addition to use in Mini cars, this engine was also installed in Peugeot-Citroën models under the EP3 index.
The N12B14A engine became popular due to its compactness, reliability and economy, but it had a number of features and typical problems typical of its generation of distributed injection motors.
Mini N12B14A engine specifications
| Characteristics | Modification One 75 | Modification One 95 |
|---|---|---|
| Definite displacement | 1397 cm³ | 1397 cm³ |
| Power system | Distributed injection | Distributed injection |
| Power | 75 hp | 95 hp |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Cylinder block | Aluminum R4 | Aluminum R4 |
| Cylinder head | Aluminum 16v | Aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder diameter | 77 mm | 77 mm |
| Piston stroke | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Compression ratio | 11 | 11 |
| Hydrocompensators | Yes | Yes |
| Transmission timing | Chain | Chain |
| Fasoregulator | Inlet and outlet | Inlet and outlet |
| Turbocharger | No | No |
| Oil | 4.2 liters 5W-30 | 4.2 liters 5W-30 |
| Ecological class | EURO 4 | EBRO 4 |
| Example service life | 250,000 km | 230,000 km |
Features and technologies
- DOHC and Valvetronic – The engine is equipped with a variable intake and exhaust timing system to optimize engine performance at different modes and improve fuel efficiency.
- Chain-driven timing – the use of a chain instead of a belt increases the durability of the timing system, however, like many chain-driven engines, this motor requires regular inspection of the chain and tensioner.
- Aluminum cylinder block – reduces overall engine weight and improves heat dissipation, which has a positive effect on vehicle dynamics and handling.
Engine Application
The N12B14A engine was installed in the following Mini models:
- Mini Clubman R55 (2009 – 2010)
- Mini Hatch R56 (2007 – 2010)
These cars were characterized by affordability, which made them popular among urban youth and those who were looking for a stylish and economical car.
Problems and drawbacks of the N12B14A engine
Despite its economy and compactness, the N12B14A engine had several characteristic problems that were regularly reported by owners:
- Oil consumption and intake coking – one of the most notorious problems is increased oil consumption, especially on mileages over 100,000 kilometers. There have also been cases of severe coking of the intake ducts, requiring regular cleaning.
- Wear and tear of the timing chain drive – despite the use of a chain drive, its components, particularly the chain tensioner, often had a limited life and required replacement at 100,000 to 150,000 kilometers.
- Phase control and Valvetronic failures – the engines are equipped with a variable valve timing system, which also proved to be insufficiently reliable. The Valvetronic phasor controllers and mechanisms have failed over time, causing the engine to run erratically.
- Oil and antifreeze leaks were another common problem. Owners often complained of oil leaks through oil seals and gaskets, as well as failure of the water pump, thermostat and second lambda probe.
General reliability of the Mini N12B14A
The Mini N12B14A engine, produced from 2007 to 2010, was an economical and technologically advanced solution for city cars. It featured moderate power and compact dimensions, making it a popular choice for base versions of the Mini. However, a number of characteristic problems, such as increased oil consumption, timing chain wear and phase control malfunctions, made this engine less reliable than other BMW motors.
These deficiencies required attention from owners and regular maintenance to keep the engine running at high mileage.
MINI motors were particularly problematic until 2011. Engine N12 initially had just a huge number of shortcomings, and engineers continuously worked on their elimination. If you buy a car with such a motor, it is desirable 2010-2011 years of release.
It should be noted that the vast majority of cars with N12 engines have gone through a recall company with the replacement of the power unit. Even after that, control over the condition of the engine by the owner should be continuous. Replacing the motor under warranty and its later year of manufacture is no defense against potential problems.
The appearance of whistling indicates the need to change the valve cover, which has a torn diaphragm. Its cost is 140 dollars. There are enough analog repair kits on the market at more affordable prices. The thermostat has a housing made of plastic, and its service life does not exceed 100 thousand kilometers, the price tag is also about 140 dollars. The original pump also has a similar price.
Cooling is one of the main diseases of any gasoline motor on the MINI, so it needs close attention. An overheated motor may have a problem with piston rings, valve seats may simply fall out of their seats. The result is an increase in oil consumption, compression drop, destruction of elements of the piston group. Not the most durable and timing chain, on average it “lives” 100 thousand kilometers even with a timely change of oil.
Engine Rating 3