Of course, there is evidence that the BMW N47 engine is a powerful and efficient engine. As is the case with any other engine in the market, the BMW N47 engine has its fair share of issues as well. The main problems that are characteristic for the N47 engine include the failure of the timing chain. In this article, we will take our usual predictive approach to outline when the timing chain failure issues occur in the BMW N47D20 engine, how to solve it, and the costs of fixing it.
Table of Contents
The BMW N47D20 Engine
Timing chain failure has become common, but let’s discuss in details what makes the BMW N47D20 engine a subject of frequent breakdowns. The N47 is one of the BMW diesel engines family. The N47D20 is a 2.0 l engine, ‘D’ for diesel here refers to the type of fuel the engine uses. These engines have slowly made their way to the market because of their efficiency and soft road feel especially for BMW owners.
The Timing Chain
The timing chain is an usual element of practice in all different kinds of engines. Its main a role is to ensure that the crankshaft and camshaft rotate at appropriate times so that the engine operates properly. But as time passes, the timing chain will wear out or elongate causing various faults as we may find with timing chain failure.
Timing Chain Failure Problems
Oh and lots of other things when that magical timing chain goes south. Some of the most common symptoms of a failing timing chain include:
- They proposed the following challenges: starting the engine.
- Rough idling or stalling
- Reduced engine power
- Increased oil consumption
- Oil leaks
- Now the check engine light is illuminated
- Lack of fluidity or delay while moving forward
At its worst, a timing chain failure can lead to major engine problems if not rectified on time. Therefore, it is advisable that one seeks treatment once you realize you have any of the following symptoms.
How to Fix Timing Chain Failure in the BMW N47D20 Engine
When you already know that your BMW N47D20 engine has a faulty timing chain, the next question is how to solve it. Here are the steps to follow:
- Inspect the Timing Chain
To begin with, the degree of the damage should be assessed through the examination of the timing chain. It can generally be accomplished with a timing light and a mechanic’s stethoscope called a dial indicator. If they appear to look like a chain that has been stretched out or broken in certain areas, then it will mean it needs to be replaced.
- Replace the Timing Chain
The BMW N47D20’s timing chain cannot be changed by do-it-yourselfers. It involves skills and techniques to which only professional mechanics should engage in when fixing cars. While changing the timing chain of your car, do not forget to replace the tensioner and guides associated with it.
- Check for Other Potential Issues
Following the repair of the timing chain, other components of the engine should also be checked because a failing timing chain could be due to other issues affecting the engine. This may involve inspecting the valve lifters, camshaft, and the variable valve timing system.
- Reset the ECM
For the best operation of the engine after replacing the timing chain and other components related to this system, the Engine Control Module should be reset. This can normally be achieved using a diagnostic tool.
Costs
Various costs will arise while repairing a timing chain failure in the BMW N47D20 and due to this, some of the cost factors that might be incurred include: It will cost between $2,000 and $4,000 on average to repair a faulty timing chain in your BMW N47D20 engine. These are meaning full to the extent, that it is the total cost of the required number of parts and the hours spent on assembling them.
However, this may not look like a big cost, but failure to address the problem in time may result in costly consequences in the future. However, such problems can be avoided by having a routine check and fixing them as soon as a problem arises, as it may cost you much later. Also, please change your engine oil every 10,000 km and not more! Often oil changes will help your engine run better and will be very healthy for your new timing chain kit.
Conclusion
Timing chain failure on the N47D20 is not a rare occurrence and getting the problem fixed can be expensive. Yet, as you become familiar with those symptoms, act quickly and let a professional mechanic do the task, then you can solve the problem with little effect on the functionality of your engine. Please bear in mind that, these are some of the issues that could arise due to negligence on regular services and timely repair, if maintained properly, your BMW N47D20 engine would stand the best chance of serving you for years to come. Also, please read our article regarding the reliability aspects of this engine here.
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