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

Are BMW N47 engines still susceptible to timing chain failure?

I've read all about the dreaded timing chain failure on 320d/520d BMWs with N47 engines manufactured between 2007 and 2011. I wanted to know if models after March 2011 (when they supposedly changed the engine) have fixed this problem?

Also on this model, is the timing chain still at the back of the engine or the front?

Asked on 17 July 2014 by seanbmw

Answered by Honest John
Still at the back of the engine. Have not heard of any post 2011 failure. But the main reason for the failures was BMW's longlife servicing. Any oil will get contaminated by 20,000 miles and start to block oilways. Every engine needs an oil and filter change at least every 10,000 miles or every 12 months whichever comes first.
Similar questions
What are the most common faults on a used 2010 BMW 3 Series 320d? I am thinking of buying one and would value your opinion on this model.
I have a 2003 Nissan Micra 1.2 that has recently been giving trouble. At first, it was just kangarooing for 30 seconds after moving off, then it got worse and would do it for maybe a minute or two. More...
I have a 2011 BMW 320i (N43 engine) with timing issue problem. I have been waiting for two days for the results of the investigation but O am told it will be expensive to fix. The car is out of warranty...
 

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