A mechanic can replace a timing chain for between $1,600 and $1,800, or you can do it yourself for between $600 and $800.
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Which BMW engines have timing chain Problems?
BMW timing chains have snapped on a range of models across the 1, 3 & 5 Series, most commonly affecting the N47 diesel. We also rebuild M57 & N57 diesel engines, BMW petrol engines & also BMW Minis. The timing chain is located at the rear of the engine bay and is not intended to be a serviceable part.
How often do BMW timing chains break?
Replacement Guidelines BMW and MINI use Timing Chains in almost every model of engine that they produce.It is recommended to replace your timing chain before failure as repair prices can become very high from internal engine damage. From experience the life of these timing chains are 90,000 miles or 9 years.
How much does it cost to change a timing chain on a BMW?
If you think that your BMW’s timing chain will need to be replaced soon, you might be wondering how much this job will cost you. On average, you’ll probably pay anywhere from $600-$1,100 for your replacement.
When was the N47 engine replaced?
BMW N47 is a four-cylinder common rail diesel engine that has many improvements over its predecessor, the M47. In 2014 it was replaced with the B47.
What years BMW timing chain Problems?
BMW Petrol Engine โ Timing Chain Failure A range of BMW petrol engines in cars registered between 2001 to 2015 appear to have a design problem affecting the timing chain or tensioner. The engine timing chain is very weak โ it stretches over time, and ultimately snaps.
Which BMW engine is the most reliable?
- BMW B58 Engine.
- BMW M20 Engine.
- BMW M50 Engine.
- BMW S62 Engine.
- BMW N52 Engine.
- BMW M54 Engine.
Is it worth replacing timing chain BMW?
Prevent further damage to your engine by having your timing chain checked and replaced. BMW use timing chains in almost every model of engine that they produce. It is recommended to replace your timing chain before failure as repair prices can become very high from internal engine damage if left.
Is timing chain worth fixing?
The Bottom Line. The timing chain is an essential component of any engine, and your car would be useless without it. If your timing chain breaks while you’re driving, your vehicle’s engine is likely to suffer catastrophic damage.
What are the symptoms of a failing timing chain?
- Rattling Sound on Starting the Engine or Idling. A common finding in a vehicle with a bad timing chain is unusual rattling noise when the engine is started or when brakes are engaged.
- Misfiring Engine.
- Contaminated Engine Oil.
- Check Engine Light.
- Inability to Start the Engine.
Will BMW pay for timing chain?
There is no cap for repairs reimbursement if the repairs were done at a BMW center. However, repairs done at an independent service center are capped at $3,000 for timing chain modules and oil pump drive chain modules and at $7,500 for engines.
How do you check the timing chain on a BMW?

Do BMW engines have timing belts or chains?
Porsche, BMW and Mercedes Benz make use of an internal timing chain. These chains are more durable and less likely to fail themselves.
Why do N47 timing chains fail?
The N47 timing chain premature failure comes from the weak tensioners fail to apply proper tense onto the chains. Over time, the chains are getting slacked and getting loose. The loosen chain will cause the sharp rattling sound. Normally the rattling noise is coming from the rear part of the engine.
Is the N47 a good engine?
Generally speaking, the N47 is a pretty great engine. Decent performance with loads of torque available low in the rev range. People will say that the N47 is the worst BMW engine ever due to the timing chain issue.
How long will N47 engine last?
200,000 miles N47 engines have no other design issues and can easily run 200,000 miles if maintained correctly plus it is your original engine with traceable service history and mileage.
What happens when timing chain breaks BMW?
When a BMW engine timing chain snaps, the inlet and exhaust valves collide with the pistons, resulting in massive engine damage. At this point it will bend all 16 valves, shatter the rocker arms, snap and distort both camshafts and the camshaft housing.
How do I know if my timing chain is bad on my BMW?
- Rough idling: Start up your car and set out of it.
- Unusual noises: Especially when idling, but not just when idling, you may hear your engine rattle.
- Metal shavings in oil: The timing chain will wear out over time.
How much is a BMW timing belt?
Shopping around to get a few quotes is your best bet to get the best deal, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $409 to $919 (including parts and labor).
How long should a BMW engine last?
Almost any BMW has the potential to run for up to 200,000 or even 250,000 miles with proper maintenanceโand there are always going to be outliers that go further.
What year BMW is most reliable?
- 8/10 2002 BMW 318i.
- 7/10 2008 BMW 750i.
- 6/10 2012 BMW Z4.
- 5/10 2016 BMW M4.
- 4/10 2005 BMW 325i.
- 3/10 2019 BMW F40.
- 2/10 2018 BMW i3.
- 1/10 2006 BMW E90 330i.
Are BMW reliable after 100k miles?
With proper servicing and maintenance, most BMWs last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles. Some dealers will not sell BMWs with more than 80,000 miles because they require extensive servicing and major repairs.
Will a broken timing chain destroy my engine?
A broken timing chain will cause an engine to not start or fail while driving. If the belt is already broken, the engine won’t have enough compression to start. If it breaks or jumps while driving, the pistons will be damaged from contact with the valves. The valves themselves will bend and potentially ruin the engine.
How do you prevent timing chain failure?
- Inspect your timing chain cover frequently for leaks.
- Make sure engine oil levels don’t get low.
- Don’t let the engine overheat; if it does, do not drive it.
How does a car act when the timing chain is going out?
The engine misfires. Once a timing chain is stretched and has lost its integrity, the chain may skip a gear and lose the necessary coordination leading to an engine misfire. Repeated misfires could indicate a timing chain issue and should be investigated. There is a rattling sound.