Hi there – yes, a worn or stretched timing chain, weak timing chain tensioner, or worn timing chain guides can cause misfiring, cam timing problem codes, low power and generally poor running of the engine. Most, if not all, of these problems will illuminate the Check Engine light.
Table of Contents
When Should BMW X1 timing chain be replaced?
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.
What BMW models 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 do I know if my BMW timing chain is bad?
- 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 does it cost to change timing chain on BMW X1?
The average cost for BMW X1 Timing Chain Replacement is $959.
How much does it cost to replace timing chain 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.
Is timing chain covered under warranty BMW?
The engine timing chain and oil pump drive chain module limited warranty extension to 7 years/70,000 miles (as determined by the vehicle’s original in-service date) for defects in material and workmanship applies to eligible US-specification BMW vehicles that are registered, operated, and have their covered repair …
When did BMW change the timing chain issue?
The owner of a 2013 BMW X3 reported a timing chain failure likely caused by a broken timing chain guard. The timing chain failure subsequently led to engine failure. The owner was informed of the N20 timing chain issue and that the component was supposedly upgraded in 2015.
How long should a BMW timing chain last?
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. The average life of these timing chains is 90,000 miles or 9 years.
Does X1 have timing belt or chain?
Does the BMW X1 have a timing chain or timing belt? Most engines in the BMW X1 have a timing chain instead of a timing belt. As long as you take care of service and oil changes, the timing chains in BMW X1 are known to last very well.
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.
How do you know if your timing chain is bad in 5 minutes?
- 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.
How long do timing chains last?
Every time you use the engine, the timing chain is in use. When does a timing chain need to be replaced? The timing chain normally needs to be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles unless there is a specific problem. Issues with the chain are common in higher mileage vehicles.
How many labor hours does it take to replace a timing chain?
Overall, it should take a qualified mechanic between 5 and 8 hours to replace the timing chain and all of the parts that go with it.
How do you check a timing chain?
Read the amount of stretch on the timing tab. For example, if the rotor tip began to move at 10ยฐ after TDC as measured at the timing mark, the chain has 10ยฐ of stretch. Any reading more than 4ยฐ to 5ยฐ is considered excessive and you need to schedule time to install a new timing chain and gear set.
How often should timing chain be changed?
When should a timing chain be replaced? Although a timing chain is made out of metal, that doesn’t mean that it’s invincible. Autoblog reports that a timing chain typically needs to be replaced every so often depending on its condition. However, it should last well over 100,000 miles.
How do you check if timing chain has been replaced?

Can you replace timing chain yourself?
You may find the need to replace your timing chain at some point; however with the right tools, a service manual and some mechanical know-how, you can do it yourself. Just be aware that this is a major job and can have serious consequences for your engine if done incorrectly.
Is timing chain covered under extended warranty?
Fortunately, most timing chains are covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, so if yours fails prematurely, you shouldn’t have to pay for the repairs. However, it’s always a good idea to check your warranty before having any work done on your car.
What is BMW SULEV warranty?
The BMW SULEV (Super Ultra-low Emissions Vehicle) warranty covers all BMW vehicles equipped with SULEV technology for 15 years or 150,000 milesโwhichever comes first.
What does SULEV mean in BMW?
Super ultra-low emissions vehicle (SULEV) is a U.S. classification for passenger vehicle emissions. The classification is based on producing 90% fewer emissions than the average gasoline-powered vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix a drive chain?
Timing chain replacement can cost between $600 and $800 for a DIY repair, or between $1,600 and $1,800 with a mechanic. The cost is high due to the complicated nature of replacing this part. If you want to DIY a timing chain replacement, the parts will cost around $650.
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.
Is it better to replace timing chain or engine?
If the engine has been well-maintained then there really is no reason to install a new engine. This engine can last 100,000 more miles if it was well-maintained. If it hasn’t been well-maintained, then I would replace the engine instead of wasting time on the chains.