N47 Timing Chain Failure
SeriousEngineThe 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.
Most affected: 118d, 120d, 123d, Many 2.0d EfficientDynamics derivatives
Estimated cost: £1,200–£3,500Affects: 2007–2011Often appears around: 70,000-140,000 miles
Typical symptoms
- •Metallic shush or rattle from the bulkhead side on cold start
- •Timing faults, long cranking, or rough idle
- •Sudden loss of drive if the chain jumps
What to inspect before you buy
- ✓Listen from inside the cabin and beside the scuttle when the engine is cold
- ✓Check if the crankshaft/chain recall (14V054) was addressed
- ✓Be wary of cars that followed BMW condition-based oil intervals only