When should I change the timing chain on my BMW 320D?

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 year BMW has timing chain Problems?

A range of BMW diesel engines produced between 2006 and 2012 appear to have a design problem affecting the timing chain. The engine timing chain is very weak – it stretches over time, and ultimately snaps.

Does a BMW 320D have a timing belt?

The BMW 3 Series utilizes both belts and chains, depending on which particular model year, trim level, and engine type You’re looking at. The 320D has always used timing chains in each configuration, and the 320i has used chains exclusively, with the exception of the 1982-1992 2.0L M52B20.

How much does it cost to change a timing belt on a BMW?

Shopping around to get a few quotes is your best bet to get the best deal, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $409 to $919 (including parts and labor).

How do you diagnose timing chain Problems?

These signs include:

1. 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.
2. Misfiring Engine.
3. Contaminated Engine Oil.
4. Check Engine Light.
5. Inability to Start the Engine.

What causes timing chain failure?

A timing chain can break with either too much or not enough tension. If the chain does not have enough tension, it can develop slack. A chain with too much tension can also fail, as it is placed under excessive stress. Tension increases friction and heat in the chain, which can result in failure.

Does a BMW 320d have a timing belt or chain?

Here is a list of timing belts and timing chains for a BMW 320D. Reference the model year with the corresponding engine to see if your car has a belt or a chain.

Does the BMW X5 330d have a timing chain problem?

The BMW X5 330D 3.0 diesel engine suffers from the problem of timing chain. In these engines, the crankshaft sprockets also cause severe damage to the timing chain if misaligned, and result in many engine problems.

What is wrong with my BMW 320D engine?

Also mentioned by Engine Trust, who specialise in replacement BMW 320d engines, the 2.0D engines also suffer from the manufacturing defect of the crankshaft sprockets. The sprockets drive the chain to the pressure pump on the camshaft due to a defect from the factory during the manufacturing of the engine.

Is the BMW 320d a good daily driver?

So long as you service it on the dot, change the oil at least every 10,000km or six-months, and drive it with mechanical sympathy the BMW 320D should be a reliable, comfortable, and safe daily driver. The problem with the N47 diesel engine dates back to 2007. There are plenty of overseas reports of the timing chain failing, as yours has done.