KNOWN FAULT · BMW

N57 timing chain

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

Engine / equipment: N57 3.0 diesel (325d/330d/335d, 525d/530d/535d, 730d, X3/X5/X6 30d-40d)
Period mentioned: 2008–2018 (most cases 2008–2011)
Symptoms: Chain rattle for the first 5–10 seconds after starting; on engines with low oil pressure, noises and oil pump damage.
Possible cause described: Rear-mounted single-row chain with plastic guides and a tensioner; it stretches, especially with long oil change intervals. Far more durable than the N47's, with most lasting beyond 200,000 km.
Check for the garage: Listen to a cold start and check the oil change history. The gearbox must come off to replace it.
Cost cited in the source: €2,500–4,500A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

Mileage cited in the database: from 200,000 km. This is not a maintenance interval and does not predict a failure.

Sources from the original database

Anonymous answer, no personal data.

How much does it cost to repair this fault?

€2,500–4,500

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

How is it checked?

Listen to a cold start and check the oil change history. The gearbox must come off to replace it.

What are the symptoms?

Chain rattle for the first 5–10 seconds after starting; on engines with low oil pressure, noises and oil pump damage.

Which cars and years does it affect?

Brands: BMW
Engine / equipment: N57 3.0 diesel (325d/330d/335d, 525d/530d/535d, 730d, X3/X5/X6 30d-40d)
Period mentioned: 2008–2018 (most cases 2008–2011)

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

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