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Emergency
KNOWN FAULT · BMW · MINI

Stretched rear timing chain

Sources are not verified in real time and no entry confirms that your car is affected.

Engine / equipment
N47 2.0 diesel (116d–123d, 316d–325d, 520d, X1/X3 18d-20d)
Period mentioned
2007–2015 (improved from 2011)
Symptoms
Rattling from the rear of the engine (gearbox side) on a cold start, getting worse over time. In extreme cases the engine cuts out while driving.
Possible cause described
The timing chain sits at the rear of the engine; its guides are poorly lubricated and the chain stretches. If it jumps or snaps, the valves hit the pistons and the engine is destroyed.
Check for the garage
Listen with the engine fully cold, ideally with a mechanic's stethoscope on the rear of the block.
Cost cited in the source
Approx. €2,000–4,000 at an independent garage (engine must come out)A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

Sources from the original database

Has this happened to you?

Anonymous answer, no personal data.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to repair this fault?

Approx. €2,000–4,000 at an independent garage (engine must come out)

A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

Calculate estimate
How is it checked?

Listen with the engine fully cold, ideally with a mechanic's stethoscope on the rear of the block.

What are the symptoms?

Rattling from the rear of the engine (gearbox side) on a cold start, getting worse over time. In extreme cases the engine cuts out while driving.

Which cars and years does it affect?
Brands
BMW, MINI
Engine / equipment
N47 2.0 diesel (116d–123d, 316d–325d, 520d, X1/X3 18d-20d)
Period mentioned
2007–2015 (improved from 2011)

Taking it to a garage?

Find garages near you and, before you say yes, check whether the quote is reasonable.

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