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BMW N47 timing chain replacement
The N47 four-cylinder diesel in many 2007 to 2015 BMWs is known for timing chain wear. The chain sits at the back of the engine, so a rattle there needs checking early. Call us to book a listen and a proper diagnosis.
Why book with us
BMW N47 timing chain replacement with clear advice.
BMW used the N47 2.0 litre diesel from 2007 until it was replaced by the B47 around 2014 and 2015. It powers huge numbers of 116d, 118d, 120d, 316d, 318d, 320d, 520d, X1 and X3 models. On this engine the timing chain and its guides are at the gearbox end, which makes the job much bigger than on engines with the chain at the front.
As the plastic chain guides wear and the chain stretches, the engine develops a rattle or whine from the back, usually most obvious at idle when warm and with the windows down. It tends to get louder over months. If it is left, the chain can jump or snap, and on a diesel that almost always means bent valves and a replacement engine.
Not every rattle is the chain. Dual-mass flywheels, heat shields and injectors can all make noises in a similar area. We listen with the engine running, check for chain-related fault codes and look at the service history, because long oil change intervals are a big factor in how quickly the chain wears.
If the chain is worn, we replace the chains, guides, tensioner and sprockets as a kit so the job is done once. Because the engine or gearbox has to come out, we also check the clutch, flywheel and seals while we are in there and tell you if anything else is worth doing at the same time.
1, 3 and 5 Series, X1 and X3
All N47 diesel models, including the 116d, 118d, 120d, 318d, 320d and 520d.
Diagnosed before replacement
We confirm the noise is the chain, not a flywheel or heat shield.
Full kit fitted
Chains, guides, tensioner and sprockets replaced together.
Book a listen
Call us to book a check as soon as you hear the rattle.
BMW N47 timing chain replacement
Our N47 timing chain job includes
Clear expectations, no surprises. If anything extra is needed, we explain it first.
- Noise diagnosis with the engine running, and a fault code check.
- Timing chains, guides, tensioner and sprockets replaced as a kit.
- Inspection of the clutch, flywheel and rear main seal while accessible.
- Fresh oil and filter to the correct BMW specification.
- Timing set and checked with the correct locking tools.
- Road test and re-scan before handover.
BMW N47 timing chain replacement
Common questions
- Which BMWs have the N47 engine?
- Most four-cylinder BMW diesels from about 2007 to 2014, including the 116d, 118d, 120d, 316d, 318d, 320d, 520d, X1 and X3 20d. Give us your registration and we will confirm it.
- How long can I drive with a rattling N47 chain?
- There is no safe answer. Some last months, some snap soon after the noise starts. Because a snapped chain usually wrecks the engine, we recommend getting it checked as soon as you hear it.
- Is it worth doing the chain on a high-mileage 320d?
- If the rest of the car is sound, usually yes, as the alternative is a replacement engine. If there are other big jobs due, we give you the full picture so you can decide.
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Serving drivers across the local area
We provide bmw n47 timing chain replacement for customers from across the region — book online or call us.
Experts in bmw n47 timing chain replacement
Tell us your car and symptoms, we will advise honestly.
Serving Oldbury, West Midlands and surrounding areas towns. Message or call and we will outline likely costs before we book you in.