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BMW N47 timing chain replacement
We listen for the tell-tale rattle, confirm chain stretch before recommending work, and replace the chains, guides and tensioners together. Book a check as soon as you hear a noise.
Why book with us
BMW N47 timing chain replacement with clear advice.
The N47 is the 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel BMW fitted to the 118d, 120d, 318d, 320d, 520d, X1 and X3 from around 2007 until the B47 replaced it from 2014 onwards. It is economical and pleasant to drive, but it is well known for timing chain problems. The chain and its plastic guides wear, the chain stretches, and in the worst cases it snaps — which usually wrecks the engine.
What makes the N47 different is where the chain sits. BMW put it at the back of the engine, against the gearbox, so a proper repair means removing the engine or gearbox to reach it. That is why the job is not cheap, and why catching it early matters so much. A replacement chain kit is a fraction of the cost of a replacement engine.
The classic warning sign is a rattle or whine from the back of the engine — you tend to hear it best standing by the windscreen with the bonnet open, at idle, often more obvious when the engine is warm or just after start-up. Some owners notice it only when coasting off the throttle. Long oil change intervals are widely thought to make the problem worse, so cars on BMW's extended schedule are worth a closer listen.
If you bring your BMW to us in Northfield, we listen with the engine hot and cold and check for stretch-related fault codes before recommending anything. If the chain needs replacing, we replace the timing chains, guides, tensioner and associated seals together, refill with the correct BMW-approved oil and advise a shorter oil change interval from then on.
Noise diagnosed properly
We confirm it is the chain, not an ancillary belt or bearing, before quoting.
Complete chain kit
Chains, guides, tensioner and seals replaced together, not piecemeal.
Correct BMW oil
Refilled with the approved grade, with advice on a sensible oil change interval.
Book early
Book an appointment when you first hear a rattle — it is far cheaper than a new engine.
BMW N47 timing chain replacement
What our N47 timing chain job includes
Clear expectations, no surprises. If anything extra is needed, we explain it first.
- Engine noise diagnosis, hot and cold, and a fault code scan.
- Engine or gearbox removal for access to the rear-mounted chain.
- Replacement of timing chains, guides, tensioner and seals.
- Inspection of the flywheel and clutch while access is open.
- Fresh oil and filter to BMW specification.
- Road test and service record updated.
BMW N47 timing chain replacement
Common questions
- Which BMWs have the N47 engine?
- Mainly the 116d, 118d, 120d, 318d, 320d, 520d, X1 and X3 diesel models built between about 2007 and 2014. From 2014 onwards BMW moved to the B47 engine.
- Can I keep driving with a rattling chain?
- We would not advise it. A stretched chain can jump or snap without further warning, and that usually means serious engine damage. Book a check as soon as you notice the noise.
- Is it worth doing the clutch at the same time?
- If the clutch or dual-mass flywheel is near the end of its life, doing it while everything is apart saves a lot of labour later. We check it and give you the choice.
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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 Birmingham, West Midlands and surrounding areas towns. Message or call and we will outline likely costs before we book you in.