N47 Timing Chain Failure
SeriousEngineThe rear-mounted N47 chain can stretch and snap, taking out the engine. Early units suffered from sharp crankshaft sprocket teeth (Recall 14V054). It is the key risk on mainstream 318d and 320d cars built in the late-2000s.
Most affected: 318d, 320d, ED models using N47
Estimated cost: £1,200–£3,500Affects: 2007–2011Often appears around: 70,000-140,000 miles
Typical symptoms
- •Metallic rattle from the gearbox side on cold start
- •Long cranking or timing faults
- •Harsh idle or sudden engine cut-out
What to inspect before you buy
- ✓Listen with the bonnet open and from inside the cabin
- ✓Verify if Recall 14V054 (crankshaft/chain) was completed
- ✓Check service intervals were sensible rather than long-life only