As the timing chain ages and becomes increasingly worn, its symptoms frequently appear gradually. Therefore, you generally won’t have a significant acute symptom until the chain is just close to fail completely. Instead, think about how your car is operating right now and attempt to remember how it was operating a few months ago. Small issues can be a sign that the chain will eventually fail completely.
Here are some signs that your timing chain may be failing:
- Rough idling: Start the engine of your car and drive away. The timing chain may be wearing out if it is shaking or vibrating more than usual. Of course, there are other issues that could result in harsh idling, but it’s always worthwhile to investigate the issue since it usually gets worse over time.
- Unusual noises: You might hear your engine rattle, not just when it’s idle but also at other times. The timing chain may be loose and banging against something else if the sound is unchanging and coarse.
- The timing chain will eventually wear down because of metal particles in the lubricant. Metal shavings may begin to emit when it reaches the end of its useful life. If that happens, it will go into your engine oil, which can lead to other issues. However, metal shavings can be produced by any part of your vehicle that is deteriorating, so it’s important to look into the issue before replacing the chain.
- Engine problems: If your BMW won’t start, the chai may be damaged and not supplying enough pressure to start the engine. If the chain snaps while you are driving, the timing chain may have snapped at that same instant. If this occurs, your car may suffer extra damage from the belt issue or the piston damage.
- Engine misfires: Your engine may misfire before the chain has completely snapped. The crankshaft and cam are connected by a chain. The chain can cause the car to skip a gear on the crankshaft or camshaft if it is overstretched. This will put further strain on it, and eventually it will break.
- the check engine light is on The check engine light could, of course, indicate a wide range of issues with your BMW. However, there is a chance that the timing chain has failed or is soon to fail.
It is advised to bring your BMW in if you experience any of these symptoms so that a mechanic can examine your timing chain and any other potential issues.
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Leonbot
Just bought the Mrs. a 2008 118d with 120k. I’m not sure if the chain has ever been updated, but from what I’ve read, I know this year is a risky year. Although there aren’t any odd noises coming from the chain right now, is it feasible to have it checked?
Also, before breaking, do chains always become gradually noisier or do they sometimes simply suddenly snap? I would value any advice.
robbieshaft
hey guys, My new E92 has a 2007 N47 engine with 166,003 miles on it. I don’t know when the chain was last replaced or examined, and I’m wondering if there’s a method to find out if it ever was. At the present, the chain area isn’t making any weird noises. I know this is a dumb question, but I’ll still ask it: Is there any obvious indication from the engine that the engine may have completed the task at some point? I don’t want to bring it somewhere where they can tell me the chain needs to be fixed if it doesn’t in order to make some easy money. I don’t know a lot about diesel engines yet because I’m new to them. Thanks
slivers of metal discovered in the oil
All automobile producers advise changing the engine oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Oil begins to separate over time as a result of heating and exposure to the natural solvents present in gasoline. Small metal fragments may break off the timing chain and enter the oil pan if the chain starts to wear down. It’s a good sign that your timing chain is starting to fail when the mechanic who changed your oil informs you that there were little metal fragments in the oil as it was drained or in the filter.
When cylinder head valves, keepers, retainers, and other cylinder head components have experienced significant wear, metal shavings are frequently observed as well. It’s essential to hire a mechanic or specialist to examine the problem and carry out the necessary repairs as quickly as feasible.
How can I tell whether my timing chain been changed?
- When the engine is running or idles, there is a rattle. Unusual rattling noises when the engine is started or when the brakes are applied are a common sign that a timing chain in a car is damaged.
- Engine Misfire.
- Engine oil with contamination.
- Check Engine indicator.
- Having trouble starting the engine
Does BMW offer timing chain repairs?
A service bulletin from BMW is released for vehicles equipped with the N63’s 4.4-liter V8. According to BMW, the timing chains on the N63 have been discovered to stretch and wear out early, leading to early valvetrain wear and decreased engine performance.
A visit to the dealership is required to find the problem. BMW technicians will do a test procedure to see if the problem is specific to that engine. The dealers will exchange the chains and all related gear if necessary.
To find out if your automobile qualifies for repairs, contact the NHTSA at 888-327-4236, the local dealership, or BMW directly at 800-831-1117.
Details are provided below:
The issue: It has been discovered that timing chains on N63 engines stretch and wear out early, leading to early valvetrain wear and decreased engine performance.
BMW has developed a test process to detect the level of timing chain wear. With the N63 Customer Care Package, which is intended to guarantee proper long-term engine running, dealers will do this test. Dealers will replace the chain and any necessary auxiliary hardware, such as the chain tensioner and auxiliary hardware as well as the chain sprocket, as a result of this test. The oil and oil filter will be replaced, and technicians will update the onboard computer to notify drivers when it’s time for a reduced oil change interval.
Information regarding the warranty: If applicable, the certified pre-owned warranty or the new car limited warranty will cover this repair. The repair may be covered by an extended warranty in cases when the factory warranty has already run out.
Owners should call their local dealer and provide the VIN to find out if their car qualifies for repairs under this service bulletin. Call NHTSA at 888-327-4236 or BMW directly at 800-831-1117. Please refer to TSB No. 111614.
BMW has a timing chain recall?
American and international car customers are aware of BMW’s reputation for producing high-quality, secure vehicles. However, occasionally problems slip factory radar and only surface after the car is in the hands of the buyer.
A recall for the timing chain on any N20-powered BMW vehicles has been issued, right?
No, not as of September 2020. However, there were other owner grievances and issues with this matter that were documented, including:
- failure of the timing chain too soon
- Vehicle entered limp mode and displayed a transmission error warning
- Failure of the timing chain due to a damaged chain guard
The timing chain of the BMW N20 is the subject of the aforementioned issues, owner complaints, and any recalls discussed in this page. You may learn more about handling a recall on your BMW vehicle as well.
How durable are BMW timing chains?
The second is the 4-cylinder, normally aspirated and turbocharged petrol N12, N14, and later N16, N18 engine that was installed in the MINI Cooper and S models from 2006 to 2016.
Often, if the timing is allowed to jump too late, the exhaust valves will flex. Therefore, if the engine rattles after starting from cold, it is preferable to replace.
Due to damaged valve stem seals that allow engine oil to vacuum bypass into the cylinders, these engines are also vulnerable to excessive engine oil consumption. It is advised to replace the valve stem seals when the engine is disassembled to replace the timing chain. This will spare labor for this separate repair down the road. We have a unique tool that makes it possible to repair the valve stem seals without taking the cylinder head off.
The drive belt for the alternator may occasionally be cracked or worn out from aging. While this is being removed, it is advised that you replace it.
In some circumstances, we demand a labor deposit to reserve a timing chain replacement (often roughly 50% of the entire repair cost). This is because there have been so many appointments in the past that were cancelled or missed.
How much does a BMW timing chain repair cost?
Between $1,624 to $1,879 at the mechanic A mechanic may need many hours to finish this labor-intensive maintenance or repair job. Every 100,000 miles, your BMW timing chain needs to be updated to keep your car in good condition.
When was the N20 timing chain updated by BMW?
The timing chain appears to be the most common N20 fault, but this problem largely affects engines and vehicles built before 2015. BMW revised the timing chain parts in January 2015, and it appears that this greatly decreased the likelihood of failure. BMW provided an additional guarantee on the timing chain and components for seven years and 70,000 miles for those vehicles manufactured prior to 2015.
Timing chain replacement can be expensive if your N20 was not given the option of an extended warranty or if it has exceeded the warranty’s maximum age or mileage. A complete timing chain failure could, in the worst case, result in engine failure. A BMW dealership may charge nearly twice as much for parts and repairs as independent repair businesses, which typically average $1500 or more. Although it is a somewhat difficult DIY project, the timing chain and other materials cost about $500.
Will BMW cover the timing chain cost?
BMW has consented to settle allegations that its timing chain parts are flawed, leading to engine damage and other problems. The agreement pays out for numerous BMW car repairs connected to this problem.
How much does a BMW timing belt replacement cost?
Belts don’t cost a much by themselves. Since many pieces must be removed in order to reach the belt, labor is where the true expense lies. Your best chance is to shop about and compare prices, but be prepared to pay anything between $409 and $919.
Do timing chains require upkeep?
Similar like timing belts, your car’s timing chain needs to be replaced from time to time. Timing chains, however, rarely need to be replaced unless there is a significant issue, unlike timing belts. The timing chain is often made to endure the lifespan of an automobile and is not required to be replaced at the recommended service interval.
A timing chain can sometimes deteriorate to the point that it needs to be replaced even though it doesn’t require routine maintenance. This is frequently a result of wear brought on by other components attached to the chain. On the other hand, design flaws might also be a reason to replace it.