B38A15A — 1.5L Petrol (2014-2018)
- Power Output
- 136hp
- Years Fitted
- 2014-2018

BMW 218i SPECIALISTS
Get quotes today from trusted UK BMW 2 Series 218i engine specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used engines for your BMW 218i - whether you drive a Coupe, Convertible, Active Tourer or Gran Tourer.
How it works
Clear information first, then the right engine and specialist for your exact vehicle.
Variant History
The BMW 2 Series 218i arrived in 2014 as the entry-level petrol variant across the 2 Series range, bringing BMW's new modular B38 three-cylinder engine to the Coupe, Convertible, Active Tourer and Gran Tourer body styles. Over its production run, the 218i badge has been powered by a mix of 1.5-litre three-cylinder B38 units and, in some markets, a detuned 2.0-litre B48 four-cylinder.

B38A15A, 1.5L turbo petrol, 136hp (F22 Coupe, F23 Convertible, F45 Active Tourer launch)
B38B15M0, 1.5L turbo petrol, 136hp (F46 Gran Tourer launch)
B38A15M0, 1.5L turbo petrol, 136hp (F22/F23 facelift preparation)
B38A15M1, 1.5L turbo petrol, 140hp (F45/F46 LCI update, power increase)
B38A15C, 1.5L turbo petrol, 136hp (F45/F46 emissions update)
B48B20M0, 2.0L turbo petrol, 136hp (selected F22/F23 markets, detuned B48)
B48B20, 2.0L turbo petrol, 154hp (G42 218i introduction, new generation)
Every engine fitted to the BMW 2 Series 218i 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 B38A15A BMW 2 Series 218i engine replacement
-> Get quotes for B38A15A BMW 2 Series 218i engine replacementCommon Problems
The BMW 2 Series 218i is powered primarily by the B38 family of 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engines, which are generally reliable but have a few well-documented weaknesses. The most significant is timing chain tensioner wear, which affects both B38 and earlier-generation units. Rebuilt engines through EnginesMarket include upgraded components addressing the original failure point, plus a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty.
Common failure points and repair options
The B38 engine is fundamentally robust, but timing chain and ignition issues can escalate quickly if ignored. With rebuilt engines available from £2,200, a 12-month warranty on every unit, and nationwide delivery and fit options, replacing your 218i engine through EnginesMarket is often more cost-effective than main dealer repairs.
FAQ
Everything BMW 2 Series 218i owners usually ask before choosing a rebuilt, reconditioned or used replacement engine.
Why Choose Us
Comparing quotes for your BMW 2 Series 218i engine replacement is free, quick, and carries no obligation. Enter your registration to receive tailored quotes from our network of vetted UK specialists - whether you need a used, reconditioned, or fully rebuilt B38 or B48 engine for your Coupe, Convertible, Active Tourer or Gran Tourer.
Compare quotes from trusted UK BMW 2 Series 218i engine specialists with warranty-backed rebuilt, reconditioned and used options nationwide.