So I did a search but really didn't see a post that told what the actual differences are between the N14 and the N18 engine. Can anyone enlighten me please. Thanks.

 

N14 Engine - N14B16AC (171hp / 177 ft-lbs)
* infinitely variable single VANOS (intake only)
* Siemens DME MED17.2 engine management

N18 Engine - N18B16M0 (181hp / 191 ft-lbs)
* infinitely variable double VANOS
* map-controlled oil pump
* variable valve timing (Valvetronic) with 3-phase servomotor and integrated eccentric shaft sensor
* composite camshaft construction
* new piston design
* Siemens DME MEVD17.2.2

- Erik

 

I believe the JCW version of the N18 engine has 211 HP.Should be released later this year,cannot comment on the rest of the specs.Q

 

In addition to the spec differences, here are a few more:

- The PCV design is updated in the N18. Rather than an external hose on the passenger side, the vacuum line is internal to the valve cover. This is (presumably) intended to reduce propensity for effluents pooling in the intake manifold. The boost line between the valve cover and turbo intake pipe is also different but seems to be functionally equivalent.

- The N18 added a cosmetic cover over the front of the valve cover.

- The N18 adds a small heat shield over the turbo oil pipe to help mitigate any coking in the line.

- The turbo intake pipe in the N18 is rigid, as opposed to the flexible pipe in the N14.

- The noisemaker is eliminated in the N18.

- The N18 intake airbox base is slightly different (the JCW intake won't fit because the mounting screws don't line up).

- The N18 oil dipstick is different (and many would say a step backwards in usability)

- The Sport Button adds "pop and burble" to the exhaust

 

What's the "noisemaker"?

 

bump. wtf is a noisemaker?

 

Small tube located below air filter, passenger side. Purpose to add slight ambient noise to cockpit.

 

The change was on 2011 MINIs right? We are getting my where's 2011 Clubman S this weekend. Just repressed that there was a change. Other than the bumpers.

 

Correct...for all turbo models with the exception of the JCW.

 

How about just do a forum search for "noisemaker" and you will find pages upon pages of it.

 

Still direct injection then I presume? Any improvements on the carbonizing effects?

 

The revised valve cover was said to incoroprate pcv improvements that reduced the carbon issue...but not a total fix.
A few other direct injection engine makers have added an extra fuel injector to add a small smount of fuel to the airintake side, like traditional port fuel injection....this seems be a good fix.i guess we will see what mini does in the next gen motors soon!!

 

Nothing new regarding timing chain issues, and the cold start rattle, right?
Or we can assume the solenoid controled oil pump have to do with it?

 

Does anyone know they changed anything in the N14 during it's life cycle? I seem to remember there being tweaks every year, but I'm not sure if that's true. I need to do an engine transplant in a 2010 Clubman, and I don't want to down grade by getting an older engine.......unless it's not a down grade at all.......then it wouldn't matter if I got an older engine...........and maybe it would be a little cheaper.

 

Porthos +100!

"The N18 oil dipstick is different" It SUKS!

Seriously, does anyone research anything on their own anymore?

 

I typed "noisemaker" into the Search function using my iPad and got "no results"... Maybe give people the benefit of the doubt sometimes? Or not - doesn't matter to me. Or maybe you didn't research that on your own, huh?

Sorry, feeling testy today. My SO Mini is due this week and I'm tired of waiting for it. I only get to drive the wife's Bayswater every so often and it's not nearly enough to satisfy my need for a Mini-fix.

Zukoda

 

The search function of this website is horrific. Just google search things like that and it pops right up

 

Is an oil catch can still necessary/recommended with the N18?

 

'Tis the unanswered question...

 

Regarding the cold-start issues question:
Since the N18 incorporates double VANOS, the chain is longer as the diameter of the exhaust gear is larger. But the tensioner is the exact same part number as the later model N14. Whether this solves the issue I cannot tell, but I would imagine so.

 

has an N18 engine.

 

Very interesting. Do you have the last 7 of your VIN?

 

I was wrong.

JCW was built in SEP 2010. N14.

Just called mechanic in LA to see about changing out the timing chain. Quoted me $1700 at The M Shop. Mini guys.

They're checking if there's a better replacement part. Is there a better aftermarket for this?

Think I should just change it out preemptively?

My mechanic said not all N14 have this problem because it depends on keeping the engine well oiled. And he sees this come up in high mileage cars. Mine is 35K.

Thoughts?

Trade in while I can? hahaha

Got the CarMax extended warranty for 100K.

 

I could be reading it wrong, but I think Gil-galad was stating the 2011 JCW did not have the N18. IIRC it was introduced in Sept. 2012.

 

Better use that warranty! I would also pay for any extra parts the warranty will not cover. Since they'll be in there you might as well have them replace everything else! You're paying mostly for labor. Timing Chain kits usually cost $150+$250 depending on what comes with it.

I wouldn't trade in if I were you. I have an '07 that has 2 chains (both before I purchased and both done a couple yers ago) its been fine since! I change oil every 3-5k depending on how hard I'm driving it and that seems to keep it happy.