What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Is the BMW N47 engine prone to timing chain failure?

I am looking at buying a high mileage 2010 BMW 320d touring E91 with N47 engine. Is this a good car to buy? I’m a bit concerned as the internet seems to be full of complains about broken timing chains that cost a fortune to fix.

Asked on 3 October 2013 by plongs3

Answered by Honest John
The later N47 engines don't seem to have this problem, which is partly the result of a ridiculous service regime. All engines need an oil and filter change at least every 12 months or every 10,000 miles whichever comes first, and not doing this with a chain cam engine is asking for trouble.
Similar questions
I have a 2011 Citroen DS4, purchased two years ago. Since January, the engine light keeps coming on and the car will go into limp mode. I had the emissions filter 'fixed' in January by the dealer from...
I own a 2007 Nissan Navara D40 LE top spec model with 70,000 miles. Every extra and gadget is installed and it's in showroom condition as I've only used it as a Chelsea tractor. It's on sale for €8000,...
My car is a Mercedes-Benz C180 estate. It was first registered in 2010, but I bought it in 2014 as an approved used car from a main dealer. The car ran fine until recently when I took it to my local dealer...
Related models
Superb to drive. Great handling and steering. Upmarket image. Economical diesel engines culminating in amazingly efficient 320d Efficient Dynamics at 109g/km of CO2.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer