BMW N47 engine models

BMW N47 engine models

The BMW N47 2.0 diesel engine was one of BMW's most widely used diesel engines, fitted to many models between approximately 2007 and 2015. It replaced the older M47 engine and was designed to provide better fuel economy, lower emissions, and improved performance.

At Bimmer Garage Nottingham, we specialise in BMW diesel engines, including N47 timing chain inspections, repairs, diagnostics, and preventative maintenance.

BMW Models With the N47 Diesel Engine

The N47 engine was fitted to a wide range of BMW models.

BMW 1 Series

Common N47 models:

  • E81 116d, 118d, 120d

  • E82 120d Coupe, 123d Coupe

  • E87 116d, 118d, 120d

  • E88 118d, 120d Convertible

  • F20 116d, 118d, 120d, 125d

BMW 2 Series

  • F22 218d

  • F22 220d

  • F22 225d

BMW 3 Series

  • E90 316d, 318d, 320d

  • E91 Touring 318d, 320d

  • E92 Coupe 320d

  • E93 Convertible 320d

  • F30/F31 316d, 318d, 320d

  • F34 320d GT

BMW 4 Series

  • F32 420d

  • F33 420d Convertible

  • F36 418d/420d Gran Coupe

BMW 5 Series

  • E60/E61 520d

  • F10/F11 518d

  • F10/F11 520d

  • F10/F11 525d (some versions)

BMW X Models

BMW X1

  • E84 X1 16d

  • E84 X1 18d

  • E84 X1 20d

  • E84 X1 23d/25d

BMW X3

  • E83 X3 18d

  • E83 X3 20d

  • F25 X3 18d

  • F25 X3 20d

MINI Models Using N47 Diesel Technology

The N47 was also used in some MINI diesel models, including:

  • MINI Cooper D

  • MINI Cooper SD

  • MINI Countryman Cooper SD

  • MINI Paceman Cooper SD

BMW N47 Timing Chain Problem

The N47 engine is most famous for possible timing chain wear.

The chain is located at the rear of the engine, making replacement more complicated and expensive compared with engines with front-mounted chains.

Common symptoms include:

  • Rattling noise on cold start

  • Metallic noise from the rear of the engine

  • Timing fault codes

  • Poor engine performance

  • Difficulty starting

If the chain breaks, it can cause severe engine damage.

How to Maintain an N47 Engine

To improve reliability:

  • Change engine oil every 8,000–10,000 miles

  • Use BMW-approved oil

  • Avoid long oil change intervals

  • Check unusual noises immediately

  • Maintain regular servicing

A well-maintained N47 can still provide strong performance and good fuel economy.

N47 vs B47

The B47 engine replaced the N47 from around 2014 onwards and was introduced in newer BMW diesel models.

The B47 improved many areas, including emissions technology and refinement, but correct servicing remains important on all modern diesel engines.

BMW N47 Specialists Nottingham

At Bimmer Garage Nottingham, we provide:

  • N47 timing chain inspections

  • Timing chain replacement

  • BMW diesel diagnostics

  • Engine fault finding

  • DPF diagnostics

  • Preventative maintenance

  • Engine repairs

If your BMW has an N47 diesel engine and you are concerned about timing chain wear, contact Bimmer Garage Nottingham for expert advice and inspection.

Early diagnosis can prevent expensive engine damage and keep your BMW running reliably.

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