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MINI N18B16A Engine - Replacement Cost, Problems & CompatibilityProblems & Compatibility
The 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine fitted to second-generation MINI Cooper S and John Cooper Works models from 2010 to 2014, as well as BMW 1 Series and 3 Series variants. The N18 is BMW and Peugeot's collaborative "Prince" engine - more reliable than the earlier N14, but with its own well-documented failure patterns. Reconditioned units from £1,800 .
Supply & Fit Available
12-Month Warranty
Nationwide Delivery
100+ Suppliers
Used from
£1,200
Reconditioned from
£1,800
Rebuilt from
£2,800
GB
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Key Specs
MINI N18B16A - Specifications at a Glance
Engine Code
N18B16A
Fuel
Petrol
Configuration
1.6L inline-4, turbocharged, DOHC, 16v, direct injection
Power Output(s)
184 hp (135 kW) / 190 hp (140 kW) - Cooper S / JCW variants
Torque
240-260 Nm
Years Produced
2010-2014 (MINI); 2010-2017 (some models)
UK Models Fitted
MINI Hatch R56, Clubman R55, Convertible R57, Countryman R60, Coupe R58, Roadster R59, Paceman R61 - full list in Compatibility below
2025 UK Replacement Requests
Replaced
N14B16A (the earlier Prince engine with more significant timing chain and HPFP failures)
Replaced By
B48A20A (BMW's modular 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder, fitted from 2014)
Most Common Failure
Timing chain guide wear / tensioner failure; high-pressure fuel pump failure
Reconditioned Price Range
£1,800-£2,800 supply-only
Vetted UK specialists for N18B16A replacements
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
Fitted To
Which MINI and BMW Models Use the N18B16A-
TAG: Fitted To
| Model | Generation/Chassis | Badge(s) | Years | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 MINI Hatch 3-door | R56 | Cooper S, JCW | 2010-2014 | |
| MINI Clubman | R55 | Cooper S, JCW | 2010-2014 | |
| MINI Convertible | R57 | Cooper S, JCW | 2010-2016 | |
| MINI Countryman | R60 | Cooper S, Cooper S ALL4, JCW | 2010-2017 | |
| MINI Coupe | R58 | Cooper S, JCW | 2011-2015 | |
| MINI Roadster | R59 | Cooper S, JCW | 2012-2015 | |
| MINI Paceman | R61 | Cooper S, JCW | 2013-2016 | |
| MINI BMW 1 Series | E87 | 116i, 118i (some markets) | 2007-2011 | |
| MINI BMW 3 Series | E90 | 316i (some markets) | 2007-2011 | |
| MINI Peugeot / Citroën | Various | EP6CDTS (PSA badging) | 2010-2017 |
02
MINI Clubman
03
MINI Convertible
04
MINI Countryman
05
MINI Coupe
06
MINI Roadster
07
MINI Paceman
08
MINI BMW 1 Series
09
MINI BMW 3 Series
10
MINI Peugeot / Citroën
CROSS-BRAND
N18B16A is documented across 10 BMW applications spanning MINI Hatch 3-door, MINI Clubman, MINI Convertible, MINI Countryman, MINI Coupe, MINI Roadster, MINI Paceman, BMW 1 Series, BMW 3 Series, Peugeot / Citroën. Registration lookup confirms the exact suffix before quotes are sent.
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Not sure which engine your car has- Enter your registration above - we'll confirm your exact N18B16A fitment before any quotes are sent.
Prices
MINI N18B16A Engine Replacement Cost (UK)
Condition | Supply Only | Fitted (Independent Specialist) | Typical Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
Used | £1,200-£1,800 | £1,800-£2,600 | 3-6 months |
Reconditioned | £1,800-£2,800 | £2,600-£3,800 | 12-24 months |
Rebuilt | £2,800-£4,200 | £3,800-£5,400 | 12-24 months |
A used N18B16A engine is available from approximately £1,695 supply-only. All other figures . Fitted = supply price + labour band below.
Labour Guide
Fitting an N18B16A typically takes 8-12 hours at £65-£85/hr (independent) - confirm exact labour when comparing quotes. A professional engine rebuild can consume 20-30 hours of labour time.
Price Factors
What moves the price for the N18B16A is whether the timing chain, guides and tensioner have been replaced (the primary failure on these engines), whether the high-pressure fuel pump has been addressed, and whether the engine comes complete with ancillaries (turbo, injectors, HPFP) or as a bare long block. A used engine with documented timing chain and HPFP history commands a premium; a bare block with ancillaries removed is cheaper. See our full reconditioned engine cost guide.
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Common Problems
MINI N18B16A Engine Problems - What Actually Fails
Every engine has its weak points. Here are the known issues with the N18B16A, based on real-world data and verified failure patterns.
Verified issue focus: Timing chain guide wear / tensioner failure; high-pressure fuel pump failure.
1. Timing chain guide wear and tensioner failure - all years
1. Timing chain guide wear and tensioner failure - all years
Typical onset:
60,000-100,000 miles
What happens:
The N18B16A's timing chain guides are made from plastic that becomes brittle over time. As the tensioner spring weakens, the chain can slacken, causing a characteristic ticking or rattling noise at idle. If the chain skips, pistons can contact valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. The N18 is more reliable than the earlier N14 in this respect, but timing chain issues remain the primary failure point.
Repair vs replace:
If caught early - when the rattle first appears - replacing the timing chain kit (chain, guides, tensioner) is the cost-effective fix. Chain replacement typically costs £800-£1,500 at an independent specialist. If ignored and the chain jumps, the engine will typically need a full replacement or rebuild.
Read more about this issue
2. High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure - pre-2012 models
2. High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure - pre-2012 models
Typical onset:
50,000-90,000 miles
What happens:
The direct injection high-pressure fuel pump is a known weak point on the N18. Symptoms include rough running, hard starting, loss of power, and misfire codes. In mid-2012, N18 engines were fitted with Bosch HPFPs, which are not interchangeable with the earlier Continental units.
Repair vs replace:
The HPFP must be replaced as a unit - not serviceable. Replacement costs £500-£900, including labour. Always verify which pump type your engine requires before purchasing.
Read more about this issue
3. VANOS solenoid and Valvetronic failure - all years
3. VANOS solenoid and Valvetronic failure - all years
Typical onset:
40,000-80,000 miles
What happens:
The variable valve timing (VANOS) solenoids and Valvetronic system can fail, leading to rough idling, hesitation on acceleration, reduced power, and engine management lights. Carbon deposits on intake valves (direct injection coking) also contribute to poor running.
Repair vs replace:
VANOS solenoid cleaning or replacement typically costs £300-£600. Valvetronic motor or eccentric shaft issues can be more significant - £600-£1,200. Carbon cleaning (walnut blasting) costs £400-£700.
Read more about this issue
The N18B16A is considered significantly more reliable than its predecessor, the N14. Post-2012 engines received revised HPFP components and timing chain tensioner updates that have reduced failure rates .
Compare rebuilt N18B16A prices with the failure already addressed
Engine Variants
N18B16A - One Engine, Multiple Tunes
The N18B16A is a specific engine code within BMW's Prince engine family, but it spans multiple power outputs and vehicle applications. The core hardware - 1.6-litre aluminium block, 77mm bore × 85.8mm stroke, 10.5:1 compression ratio - is consistent across all variants; tuning and ancillaries differentiate them. Fitted to: MINI Cooper S (R56/R55/R57/R58/R59/R60) - all body styles Key technical difference: 135 kW (184 PS), 240 Nm torque. This is the most common N18B16A variant fitted to UK MINIs. Features a BorgWarner K03 turbocharger. Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family failure pattern above (timing chain guide wear, HPFP issues on pre-2012, VANOS/Valvetronic failures, oil consumption). Interchange note: Direct swap with other N18B16A Cooper S variants of the same year. Note that pre- and post-2012 HPFP units are not interchangeable. Fitted to: MINI John Cooper Works (R56/R55/R57), MINI Cooper S JCW (R58/R59/R60) Key technical difference: 140 kW (190 PS), 260 Nm torque. Same block and head, different ECU calibration and potentially different turbocharger specification. Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family pattern; higher boost and power output may accelerate timing chain and turbocharger wear. Interchange note: A Cooper S can accept a JCW-spec N18B16A with the correct ECU remap, but ancillaries (injectors, turbocharger) may differ. Fitted to: Some MINI One variants (non-UK markets), BMW 116i (E87), BMW 316i (E90) Key technical difference: Lower 90 kW (122 PS) output. Same hardware, different ECU calibration. Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family pattern; lower power output means marginally less stress on timing components and turbocharger.
The N18B16A engine code is stamped on the engine block, typically visible on the front-left side near the timing chain cover. It also appears on the V5C logbook under the engine number section. Enter your registration above if you're unsure - we'll confirm fitment before any quotes are sent.
Easily Confused
R56/R55/R57/R58/R59/R60
Fitted to: MINI Cooper S (R56/R55/R57/R58/R59/R60) - all body styles
Alternative / Next-Gen Code
K03
Key technical difference: 135 kW (184 PS), 240 Nm torque. This is the most common N18B16A variant fitted to UK MINIs. Features a BorgWarner K03 turbocharger.
Related JLR Variants
R56/R55/R57
Fitted to: MINI John Cooper Works (R56/R55/R57), MINI Cooper S JCW (R58/R59/R60)
Confirm the exact N18B16A fitment
The N18B16A engine code is stamped on the engine block, typically visible on the front-left side near the timing chain cover. It also appears on the V5C logbook under the engine number section. Enter your registration above if you're unsure - we'll confirm fitment before any quotes are sent.
Buying Guide
Buying a Replacement N18B16A - What to Choose
Choosing the right replacement route depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and ownership goals. Here's a breakdown of your options.
Used:
A used N18B16A makes sense for lower-value R56 or R55 MINIs where a reconditioned unit would exceed the car's value. However, the timing chain and HPFP are the critical risks - only buy a used unit with documented chain history and HPFP service records, or from a car that was running well at removal. Mileage under 60,000 is preferable. A used bare engine can be found from approximately £1,695.
Reconditioned:
This is the sweet spot for most N18B16A replacements. A proper reconditioned unit will have the timing chain, guides and tensioner replaced (addressing the primary failure), a new or tested HPFP, new VANOS solenoids, new piston rings (addressing oil consumption), and a carbon-cleaned cylinder head. Expect 12-24 months warranty and a price of £1,800-£2,800.
Rebuilt:
A full rebuild is necessary if the engine has suffered catastrophic timing chain failure (valve-piston contact) or severe oil consumption that has damaged cylinder bores. A rebuilt engine should include new pistons, rings, bearings, timing components, a rebuilt cylinder head, and new HPFP. Expect £2,800-£4,200 supply-only.
Supply & Fit Line:
EnginesMarket connects you with vetted UK MINI specialists who can supply and fit your N18B16A - nationwide delivery and a minimum 12-month warranty on all reconditioned units.
Vehicle Value Note:
The N18B16A sits in R-series MINIs typically valued between £2,500 (early Cooper S high-mileage) and £12,000 (JCW / low-mileage examples). If your MINI is worth less than £4,000, a reconditioned unit at £1,800-£2,800 represents 45-70% of the car's value - carefully evaluate whether replacement makes financial sense. For lower-value examples, a good used engine with documented history may be the better economic choice. If the car is worth under £3,000, evaluate scrap value before committing to a reconditioned engine.
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Related Engines
Related Engines
Explore engines that are closely related to the MINI N18B16A, including its predecessor, successor, and key family variants.
Predecessor
N14B16A (the earlier Prince engine with more significant timing chain and HPFP failures)
N14B16A (the earlier Prince engine with more significant timing chain and HPFP failures)
Successor
B48A20A (BMW's modular 2.0
B48A20A (BMW's modular 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder, fitted from 2014)
Sibling
R56/R55/R57/R58/R59/R60
Fitted to: MINI Cooper S (R56/R55/R57/R58/R59/R60) - all body styles
Sibling
K03
Key technical difference: 135 kW (184 PS), 240 Nm torque. This is the most common N18B16A variant fitted to UK MINIs. Features a BorgWarner K03 turbocharger.
FAQ
MINI N18B16AFrequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does an N18B16A engine replacement cost in the UK-
A reconditioned N18B16A supply-only costs £1,800-£2,800; fitted by an independent specialist adds £700-£1,000 (8-12 hours labour at £65-£85/hr). Used units start from £1,200, and a full rebuild ranges from £2,800 to £4,200. Prices vary by condition, warranty length, and whether ancillaries (turbo, injectors, HPFP) are included. Pre-2012 engines may require additional HPFP attention - this impacts cost.
- Prices vary by condition, warranty length, and whether ancillaries (turbo, injectors, HPFP) are included.
- Pre-2012 engines may require additional HPFP attention - this impacts cost.
Question 2What is the most common failure on the N18B16A engine-
Timing chain guide wear and tensioner failure is the primary concern, typically appearing between 60,000-100,000 miles. A ticking or rattling noise at idle is the earliest warning. If caught early, a chain kit replacement (£800-£1,500) prevents catastrophic failure; if ignored, the chain can jump and destroy the engine. High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure on pre-2012 models (£500-£900 replacement) is also common. VANOS solenoid and Valvetronic issues cause rough idling and hesitation (£300-£600). Oil consumption on higher-mileage units (80,000+ miles) is also common.
- High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure on pre-2012 models (£500-£900 replacement).
- VANOS solenoid and Valvetronic issues cause rough idling and hesitation (£300-£600).
- Oil consumption on higher-mileage units (80,000+ miles) is also common.
Question 3Which MINI and BMW models have the N18B16A engine-
The N18B16A was fitted to MINI and BMW models from 2010-2014, including: MINI Hatch (R56 Cooper S, JCW), MINI Clubman (R55 Cooper S, JCW), MINI Convertible (R57 Cooper S, JCW), MINI Countryman (R60 Cooper S, JCW), MINI Coupe (R58 Cooper S, JCW), MINI Roadster (R59 Cooper S, JCW), MINI Paceman (R61 Cooper S, JCW), BMW 1 Series (E87 116i/118i, some markets), and BMW 3 Series (E90 316i, some markets).
- MINI Hatch (R56 Cooper S, JCW)
- MINI Clubman (R55 Cooper S, JCW)
- MINI Convertible (R57 Cooper S, JCW)
- MINI Countryman (R60 Cooper S, JCW)
- MINI Coupe (R58 Cooper S, JCW)
- MINI Roadster (R59 Cooper S, JCW)
- MINI Paceman (R61 Cooper S, JCW)
- BMW 1 Series (E87 116i/118i, some markets)
- BMW 3 Series (E90 316i, some markets)
Question 4Should I buy a used, reconditioned, or rebuilt N18B16A-
Used - best for lower-value vehicles (£3,000-£5,000), but only buy with documented timing chain and HPFP history or low mileage (<60,000). Pre-2012 units are higher risk for HPFP failure. Reconditioned - the sweet spot: timing chain, guides, tensioner, HPFP (pre-2012 units), VANOS solenoids, piston rings, and carbon cleaning are addressed; 12-24 months warranty; £1,800-£2,800. Rebuilt - only necessary after catastrophic failure (valve-piston contact, severe oil consumption damaging cylinder bores); expect £2,800+.
- **Used** - best for lower-value vehicles (£3,000-£5,000), but only buy with documented timing chain and HPFP history or low mileage (<60,000). Pre-2012 units are higher risk for HPFP failure.
- **Reconditioned** - the sweet spot: timing chain, guides, tensioner, HPFP (pre-2012 units), VANOS solenoids, piston rings, and carbon cleaning are addressed; 12-24 months warranty; £1,800-£2,800.
- **Rebuilt** - only necessary after catastrophic failure (valve-piston contact, severe oil consumption damaging cylinder bores); expect £2,800+.
Question 5How do I know if my car has the N18B16A and not another engine-
The engine code is stamped on the front-left side of the block (near the timing chain cover) and also appears on your V5C logbook under the engine number. If you're unsure, enter your registration on this page and we'll match it to the correct engine code. N18B16A is the 1.6-litre turbo petrol (184-190 hp) - used in MINI Cooper S/JCW and some BMW models. N14B16A is the earlier 1.6-litre turbo petrol (2006-2010) - higher failure rate. N16B16A is the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol (122 hp) - used in MINI Cooper/One. B48A20A is the 2.0-litre turbo petrol that replaced the N18 from 2014.
- N18B16A is the 1.6-litre turbo petrol (184-190 hp) - used in MINI Cooper S/JCW and some BMW models.
- N14B16A is the earlier 1.6-litre turbo petrol (2006-2010) - higher failure rate.
- N16B16A is the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol (122 hp) - used in MINI Cooper/One.
- B48A20A is the 2.0-litre turbo petrol that replaced the N18 from 2014.
Question 6Is the N18B16A a reliable engine overall-
The N18B16A is considered significantly more reliable than its predecessor, the N14 - but it is not without its weaknesses. With proper maintenance - including 5W-30 LL-01 oil, regular coolant checks, 10,000-mile service intervals, and prompt attention to any rattling noises - the N18 can be a dependable engine. The timing chain guides remain the primary weak point, but the N18 is less prone to catastrophic failure than the N14. Pre-2012 HPFP failures are common - ensure this has been addressed on any used purchase. Regular oil changes with BMW-approved oil are essential to prevent timing chain and carbon buildup issues. 2012-onwards engines have revised HPFP and timing chain tensioner components that have improved reliability.
- The timing chain guides remain the primary weak point, but the N18 is less prone to catastrophic failure than the N14.
- Pre-2012 HPFP failures are common - ensure this has been addressed on any used purchase.
- Regular oil changes with BMW-approved oil are essential to prevent timing chain and carbon buildup issues.
- 2012-onwards engines have revised HPFP and timing chain tensioner components that have improved reliability.
Compare MINI N18B16A Engine Prices Today
Vetted UK specialists who work on the N18B16A and Prince engine family every week Minimum 12-month warranty on every reconditioned and rebuilt N18B16A Nationwide delivery - supply-only or full supply & fit Get your free, no-obligation comparison now. We'll ask for your registration to confirm you have the N18B16A, then connect you with independent MINI specialists who can supply and fit your replacement at competitive prices. Quotes are tailored to your exact application and preferred condition - with reconditioned N18B16A units from £1,800, comparing takes two minutes and could save four figures.
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