N52B30 — 3.0L Naturally Aspirated Petrol (2008-2011)
- Power Output
- 218 hp (160 kW)
- Torque
- 270 Nm @ 2,500-4,250 rpm
- Years Fitted
- 2008-2011

BMW 125i SPECIALISTS
Get quotes today from trusted UK BMW 1 Series 125i engine specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used engines for your BMW 125i - covering the naturally aspirated 3.0-litre N52 six-cylinder in the E82 coupe and E88 convertible, through to the turbocharged 2.0-litre N20 four-cylinder in the F20 hatchback and the later B48 units.
How it works
Clear information first, then the right engine and specialist for your exact vehicle.
Variant History
The BMW 125i has occupied a unique position in the 1 Series range across two generations. Launched in 2008 with the E82 coupe and E88 convertible, it was powered by the last of BMW's naturally aspirated six-cylinder engines - the silky-smooth 3.0-litre N52. In 2012, the 125i badge was carried over into the F20 hatchback with a switch to the turbocharged 2.0-litre N20 four-cylinder, offering similar power with significantly improved efficiency. Later models adopted the B48 engine family.

N52B30, 3.0L naturally aspirated I6, 218 hp, launched with the E82 coupe and E88 convertible 1 Series
N20B20A, 2.0L turbocharged I4, 218 hp, introduced with the F20 five-door hatchback
B48B20B, 2.0L turbocharged I4, updated engine, introduced in later F20 models
F20 generation ends; the 125i badge continues in other markets with B48 variants
Every engine fitted to the BMW 1 Series 125i is covered below, with UK rebuilt pricing and known failure points.
Engine Codes & Pricing
Find your exact engine code, specs and UK replacement cost guide.

Can’t find your exact engine code?-> Get quotes for N52B30 BMW 1 Series 125i engine replacement
-> Get quotes for N52B30 BMW 1 Series 125i engine replacementCommon Problems
The BMW 1 Series 125i has been powered by three different petrol engines across its production life. Early cars (2008-2011) use the N52B30 - a 3.0-litre naturally aspirated six-cylinder that is widely regarded as one of BMW's most reliable engines. The N20B20A (2012-2015) introduced turbocharging but brought well-documented timing chain issues. Later B48-powered cars (2015-present) are the most modern and generally reliable of the bunch. Replacement demand for the BMW 125i is driven primarily by N20 timing chain failure. Every rebuilt engine supplied through EnginesMarket includes upgraded components addressing the original failure points, plus a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty.
Common failure points and repair options
The N20 engine in your BMW 125i has known timing chain weaknesses - but with the right specialist, these can be addressed before catastrophic failure occurs. The N52-powered cars are more reliable but still benefit from regular maintenance. Whether you need a preventative timing chain replacement or a full rebuilt engine with upgraded components and a 12-month warranty, EnginesMarket connects you with vetted UK specialists who know the 125i inside out. Compare prices today and keep your BMW on the road.
FAQ
Everything BMW 1 Series 125i owners usually ask before choosing a rebuilt, reconditioned or used replacement engine.
Why Choose Us
Comparing quotes for your BMW 1 Series 125i engine replacement is completely free and carries no obligation. Enter your registration above, tell us your preferred engine condition - used, reconditioned or rebuilt - and receive tailored quotes from vetted UK specialists who know the N52, N20 and B48 petrol engines inside out. No spam, no pressure, just genuine prices from trusted BMW 125i experts.
Compare quotes from trusted UK BMW 1 Series 125i engine specialists with warranty-backed rebuilt, reconditioned and used options nationwide.