How Much Does It Cost to Replace a BMW 1 Series Engine in the UK? By Model & Engine Type
Image source: BMW B48A20E Complete Engines from mtautoparts.com
If your BMW 1 Series has started showing signs of engine trouble — strange noises, rough idle, or loss of power — you're probably wondering what it’ll actually cost to replace it. And not just a rough guess, but real-world numbers you can plan around.
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your total BMW 1 series engine replacement cost depends heavily on which engine your model uses, whether you opt for a used or reconditioned unit, and how much the labour sets you back. But here’s the good news: this guide breaks it all down — petrol or diesel, old-gen or latest F40 generation — so you’ll know exactly what to expect before you open your wallet. From engine pricing to fitting costs, it’s everything you need to make a smart, confident decision.
First Generation – E81 / E82 / E87 / E88 (2004–2013)
Rear-wheel drive, known for a traditional BMW driving feel.
Petrol Engines
1.6L I4 (N45 / N46) – Models: 116i, 118i
Used engine price: £750–£1,000
Labour cost: £1,500–£2,000
Total replacement cost: £2,250–£3,000
2.0L I4 (N43) – Models: 118i, 120i
Engine price: £1,200–£1,700
Labour cost: ~£1,500–£2,000
Total: £2,700–£3,700
3.0L I6 (N52, N54, N55) – Models: 125i, 130i, 135i, 1M Coupe
Used N54 engine: £1,800–£3,000
Used N55/N52 engine: £2,000–£3,200
🛠Labour: £2,000–£2,500
Total: £3,800–£5,500
(High-performance engines cost more and require more labour time.)
Diesel Engines
2.0L I4 (M47) – Models: 118d, 120d (2004–2007)
Used engine: £550–£750
Labour: £1,800–£2,200
Total: £2,350–£2,950
2.0L I4 (N47) – Models: 118d, 120d, 123d (2007–2013)
Used engine: £750–£1,100
Labour: £1,800–£2,200
Total: £2,550–£3,300
(Note: Early N47s are known for timing chain issues.)
Second Generation – F20 / F21 (2011–2019)
Sportier chassis, still rear-wheel drive for most trims.
Petrol Engines
1.5L I3 Turbo (B38) – Models: 116i, 118i
Used engine: £1,200–£3,000
Labour: £1,500–£2,000
Total: £2,700–£5,000
2.0L I4 Turbo (B48A20A / B48A20E) – Models: 123i, 125i
BMW B48 Engine price: £2,000–£4,500
Labour: £1,600–£2,200
Total: £3,600–£7,700
Diesel Engines
1.5L I3 (B37C15A) – Models: 114d, 116d
Used engine price: £1,200–£2,500
Labour: £1,800–£2,000
Total: £3,000–£4,500
2.0L I4 (B47D20A / B47C20B) – Models: 118d, 120d
Used engine price: £2,500–£4,000
Labour: £1,800–£2,200
Total: £4,300–£6,200
(These B47 diesels fixed many of the N47’s known issues.)
Third Generation – F40 (2019–Present)
Now front-wheel drive, with updated infotainment and tech.
Petrol Engines
1.5L I3 Turbo (B38) – Models: 116i, 118i
Used engine: £2,000–£3,500
Labour: £1,500–£2,000
Total: £3,500–£5,500
2.0L I4 Turbo (B48A20E) – Models: 120i, 128ti, M135i xDrive
Engine price: £2,800–£5,000
Labour: £1,800–£2,200
Total: £4,600–£7,200
Diesel Engines
1.5L I3 (B37C15U0) – Model: 116d
Used engine: £2,000–£5,000
Labour: £1,800–£2,000
Total: £3,800–£7,000
2.0L I4 (B47D20) – Models: 118d, 120d
Used engine: £1,500–£4,000
Labour: £1,800–£2,200
Total: £3,300–£6,200
Why are there such Cost Differences?
Engine complexity: inline-3 petrols vs six-cylinder turbos
Supply availability: early engines more plentiful, ergo cheaper
Labour variation: modern turbo models cost more to remove/install
Coding & parts: engines like B48/B47 often need ECU updates
Need 1 Series BMW Engines?
Thinking about replacing the engine in your BMW 1 Series? Knowing the real costs — from engine type to labour — helps you avoid unexpected bills and makes sure you get a setup that actually fits your car, your budget, and your expectations.
If you want accurate, model-specific pricing and expert help choosing the right engine, reach out to MT Auto Parts. We’ve got one of the UK’s widest selections of tested F and G generation BMW engines in stock.Click here to contact MT Auto Parts.
Final Tips Before Replacing
Before you even think about buying, make sure you know your exact BMW engine code — whether it’s something like N55B30A, B48A20E, or B47C20B. That code is the key to getting a proper match. Not sure where to find it? Just send us your VIN number. Our team at MT Auto Parts will pinpoint the right engine for your car and walk you through everything you need to know — no guesswork involved.
And here's a golden rule: always choose a used engine that comes with a warranty. Every BMW engine we stock at MT Auto Parts includes a 30-day warranty (T&C apply), is fully tested for performance, and comes with verified mileage, detailed photos, and a clear description — so you know exactly what you're paying for, and why it’ll last.
As for labour? That part varies. Different garages, locations, and engine setups mean prices will shift — especially for more complex swaps like turbocharged or all-wheel-drive models. Always get a detailed quote in advance so there are no surprises once the engine bay is open.
FAQ: BMW 1 Series Engine Replacement Costs Explained
1. Why does a BMW 1 Series engine replacement cost so much in the UK?
There’s no sugarcoating it — replacing a BMW engine isn’t cheap. You’re not just buying a lump of metal. You’re investing in a complex piece of precision engineering, plus the skilled labour it takes to remove, fit, and reprogram everything to factory spec. The total cost includes the engine itself (used or reconditioned), gaskets, fluids, and often ECU coding. And with BMW’s tighter engine bays and high-performance components, you’re paying for more than just a swap — you’re paying for expertise.
2. What’s the cheapest engine to replace in a BMW 1 Series?
If we’re talking affordability, older petrol engines like the 1.6L N45/N46 found in early 116i or 118i models are among the easiest on the wallet. These engines are more available in the used market, and labour is generally simpler — meaning total costs can start around £2,250. No turbos. No direct injection headaches. Just simple, proven hardware.
3. Are diesel BMW engines more expensive to replace than petrol ones?
Not always — but often, yes. Diesel units like the B47D20 found in newer 118d and 120d models have more moving parts, higher pressures, and turbochargers that increase complexity. Add in the fact that early N47 diesels had timing chain issues (which makes sourcing a reliable one trickier), and you’ll see why labour can stretch upwards of £2,200. Diesel savings at the pump? Great. Diesel costs when it fails? Not so fun.
4. What’s the best way to find the right replacement engine for my BMW 1 Series?
One word: VIN. Your Vehicle Identification Number is the easiest way to take the guesswork out of engine compatibility. Just send your VIN to a reputable supplier (like us MT Auto Parts), and they’ll match your car with the exact engine code — whether it's a B48A20E, N55B30A, or something more obscure. That way, you avoid the mistake of ordering the wrong unit and wasting time, money, and stress.
5. Should I buy a used or reconditioned BMW engine?
Both have pros and cons. A used BMW engine with low mileage, warranty, and full testing — like the ones from MT Auto Parts — can save you thousands and still offer great reliability, mostly they are almost new engines, with very low mileage and can still run for years. Reconditioned engines often come with more extensive rebuilds, but cost more upfront. If you're working with a budget, a quality used engine with warranty and verified history is usually the smarter play.
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