M43, an inline-four engine with a SOHC piston, was first released by BMW in 1991 as a substitute for M40 and manufactured until 2002. The available engine volume is between 1.6 L, and 1.9 L. M43 was employed for base-model vehicles. Simultaneously, DOHC M42, and later M44, was utilized for high-performance automobiles.
M43B19 (or M43TU as it’s often called) is the biggest engine of the M43 series, with an offset of 1985 cc. Using BMW BMS 46 fuel injection system, it reaches a power of 118 hp and a torque of 180 Nm.
Unlike a motor utilized for 316i cars without a DISA valve, the 318i model features one.
M43B19 Engine Specs
| Manufacturer | Steyr Plant |
| Also called | BMW M43TU |
| Production | 1998-2002 |
| Cylinder block alloy | Cast iron |
| Configuration | Straight-4 |
| Valvetrain | SOHC 2 valves per cylinder |
| Piston stroke, mm (inch) | 83.5 (3.29) |
| Cylinder bore, mm (inch) | 85 (3.35) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7 |
| Displacement | 1895 cc (115.6 cu in) |
| Power output (horsepower) | 77 kW (105 HP) at 5,300 rpm 87 kW (118 HP) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque output | 165 Nm (122 lb·ft) at 2,500 rpm 180 Nm (133 lb·ft) at 3,900 rpm |
| Redline | 6,200 rpm |
| HP per liter | 55.4 62.3 |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Fuel system | Bosch BMS46 |
| Weight, kg (lbs) | ~138 (305) |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (mpg) -City -Highway -Combined | for E46 318Ci 11.0 (21.4) 6.0 (39.2) 8.0 (29.4) |
| Turbocharger | Naturally aspirated |
| Oil consumption, L/1000 km (qt. per miles) | up to 1.0 (1 qt. per 750 miles) |
| Recommended engine oil | 0W-30, 0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40 |
| Engine Oil Capacity, L (qt.) | 4.0 (4.2) |
| Oil change interval, km (miles) | 7,000-10,000 (4,500-6,000) |
| Normal engine operating temperature, °C (F) | 90-95 (195-203) |
| Engine lifespan, km (miles) -Official information -Real | – 300+ (185) |
| Tuning, HP -Max HP -No life span loss | 150+ – |
The M43TU 1.9L engine requires 4.1 US Quarts (4 Liters) of new SAE 5W-30 oil for an oil change with a new oil filter.
M43 Engine Modifications
- M43TU B19 OL (1998-2002) is a basic model with an output of 118 hp at 5,500 rpm and a torque of 180 Nm at 3,900 rpm.
- M43TU B19 UL (1998-2001) is a later modification with another camshaft. Its power is 105 hp at 5,300 rpm and a torque of 165 Nm at 2,500 rpm.
M43B19 Applications
- BMW 316i E36
- BMW 316i E46
- BMW 318Ci E46
- BMW Z3
M43TU Engine Innovations
- Single engine displacement – 1.9 liters;
- An engine block with the fastening points for the balancer shaft housing;
- Cylinder block with an assembly of the engine speed sensor assembly and the reference signal sensor;
- The crankshaft with the driving gear to the balancer shafts and an incremental wheel speed sensor and the engine speed reference signal transmitter;
- Block of balancer shafts;
- Modified camshaft of the lower power stage of the motor;
- The pistons and connecting rods;
- The oil pan, the oil damper, and suction tube oil pipe are fitted under the engine with balance shafts;
- Thermal oil level sensor;
BMW M43B19 Engine Problems And Reliability
- Oil leak. The trouble is rather widespread for these motors. As a rule, the cause is the leaking of the valve cover. Therefore, acquiring a fresh valve cover gland, sealant, and positive crankcase ventilation valve is advisable.
- Engine tapping. Usually, it has to do with the DISA valve. Therefore, it’s recommended to acquire DISA valve repair kit and fix the intake manifold.
The other possible reason is hydraulic lifters tapping.
Besides, the M40B19 motor may have malfunctions with acceleration, rough idling, and overheating.
If you are experiencing overheating, you should inspect the pump, radiator, thermostat, and cooling system for air pockets. When the engine does not start, check the spark plugs, the gas pump, the ignition coil and high-voltage wires.
Though, all these troubles are secondary compared to the major minus of the motor, which is low power. So, the fans of speedy driving will hardly like this engine as the driving may be pretty boring.
In a nutshell, despite its low capacity, BMW M43 is rather a trustworthy and durable engine. However, all M43 motors for sale are rather old now, so, you can face some unpleasant surprises.
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The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The author and publisher make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information presented. The reader is advised to consult a qualified professional, such as a mechanic or dealership, before making any decisions related to their vehicle's engine oil or maintenance.
