The BMW N47 is one of BMW's best-known diesel engines, introduced in 2007 as the replacement for the M47. It was designed to offer improved fuel economy, lower emissions, and strong performance across a wide range of BMW and MINI diesel models. It remained in production until it was replaced by the B47 in 2014–2015.
At Bimmer Garage Nottingham, we specialise in BMW and MINI diesel engines, including diagnostics, timing chain replacement, engine repairs, and servicing for N47-powered vehicles.
BMW N47 Engine Specifications
The most common version of the N47 is the N47D20, with the following specifications:
- Engine type: Inline 4-cylinder turbo diesel
- Engine code: N47D20
- Displacement: 1,995 cc (2.0 litres)
- Fuel system: Common rail direct injection
- Valvetrain: DOHC, 16 valves
- Turbocharger: Single turbo (Twin-turbo on higher-output versions)
- Block material: Aluminium
- Cylinder head: Aluminium
- Bore: 84 mm
- Stroke: 90 mm
- Compression ratio: Approximately 16.0–16.5:1
- Cooling system: Water-cooled
- Emission standards: Euro 4, Euro 5 and later Euro 6 depending on the model and production year.
BMW N47 Power Output
The N47 engine was produced in several power levels, including:
| Engine Variant | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| N47D20 | 116 PS (114 bhp) | 260 Nm |
| N47D20 | 143 PS (141 bhp) | 300 Nm |
| N47D20 | 163 PS (161 bhp) | 340–350 Nm |
| N47D20 | 177 PS (174 bhp) | 350 Nm |
| N47D20 | 184 PS (181 bhp) | 380 Nm |
| Twin-Turbo N47 | 204–218 PS | 400–450 Nm |
Power output varies depending on the vehicle model and production year.
BMW Models Fitted with the N47 Engine
The N47 engine was fitted to many BMW diesel models, including:
BMW 1 Series
- 116d
- 118d
- 120d
- 123d
- 125d
BMW 3 Series
- 316d
- 318d
- 320d
- 325d (selected models)
BMW 5 Series
- 518d
- 520d
- 525d (selected models)
BMW X Models
- BMW X1
- BMW X3
The N47 was also used in several MINI Cooper D and MINI Cooper SD models.
Is the BMW N47 a Good Engine?
The BMW N47 is known for:
- Excellent fuel economy
- Strong torque
- Smooth motorway performance
- Low running costs
- Good tuning potential
When serviced correctly, many N47 engines achieve high mileages with reliable performance.
Common BMW N47 Problems
Like any modern diesel engine, the N47 has some known issues.
The most common include:
- Timing chain wear
- DPF blockage
- EGR valve contamination
- Intake carbon build-up
- Turbocharger wear on higher-mileage vehicles
The timing chain is the best-known issue because it is mounted at the rear of the engine, making replacement more labour-intensive than on many other diesel engines.
How to Keep an N47 Reliable
Regular maintenance is the best way to maximise engine life.
We recommend:
- Changing the engine oil and filter every 8,000–10,000 miles or annually
- Using BMW-approved engine oil
- Investigating unusual engine noises immediately
- Maintaining the DPF and EGR system
- Carrying out regular diagnostic checks
- Avoiding extended oil service intervals
Preventative maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of major engine repairs.
Why Choose Bimmer Garage Nottingham?
At Bimmer Garage Nottingham, we specialise in BMW and MINI diesel vehicles and provide:
- BMW N47 diagnostics
- Timing chain inspections and replacement
- Engine repairs
- DPF diagnostics
- Turbocharger diagnostics
- EGR system repairs
- Routine servicing and maintenance
Our experienced technicians use specialist BMW diagnostic equipment to accurately identify faults and carry out repairs to the highest standard.
Contact Bimmer Garage Nottingham
If your BMW is fitted with an N47 diesel engine and you need expert advice, diagnostics, or repairs, contact Bimmer Garage Nottingham.
Whether you need a timing chain inspection, engine diagnostics, or routine servicing, our experienced technicians will assess your vehicle, explain the work required, and provide a personalised quotation with no obligation.