BMW introduced more N47 diesel-powered 118d/120d models, bringing the rear timing-chain risk that now dominates used-buying decisions.
The rear-mounted timing chain can stretch or jump if wear is ignored. On early units, the crankshaft sprocket teeth were too sharp, accelerating wear (Recall 14V054). On UK cars this is the headline risk on 118d, 120d, and 123d models.
Rear differential bearings can wear and start whining, especially on cars that have run mismatched rear tyres or skipped fluid changes.
The steering lock module can log faults and eventually refuse to release, leaving the car stuck or intermittently failing to start.
The DSC hydraulic unit and pressure sensor are common failures, often showing up as ABS, DSC, and handbrake warnings that can become an MOT issue.