Let’s talk about one of BMWs most well known problems… timing chains.
We’ve all heard about them, but do they affect your engine, does it really need replacing and how much will it set you back. Let’s set the record straight.
Timing chains stretch over time, causing slack in the system and eventually causing them to snap and fail altogether. If this happens at higher rpm you will lily bend valves which will lead to a large garage bill and best avoided.
The other problem is that the plastic timing guide pieces break down over time and end up in the sump, eventually blocking the oil pickup and causing engine failure and oil pressure problems.
What mileage do they need replacing? We always suggest replacing before the 80k mile mark, however we have seen them fail as early as 60k miles! It all depends on how the car has been driven. On and off throttle city driving puts extra wear on them, whereas motorway cars often survive until a much higher mileage. The only real way to know for sure is to get them done preventatively.
With the engine off, you can on some models open the oil filler cap and take a pick to the chain and try to lift it. Any movement at all indicates you should replace it as soon as possible. Petrol chains from early 2000s up until the B48 in 2014, the chains can be found on the front of the engine. This means it is a much easier replacement than on the diesel cars.
Chains range in price for different models but you can expect to drive in and out same day for just £700-800. This includes a fresh OE timing chain, no cheap aftermarket parts and comes with our full 3 year warranty.
As mentioned above, the plastic guides break down and end up in the sump. Upon removal of your old chains, our technicians check for any missing pieces and if these are found then we will recommend dropping the sump to remove these. This is highly advisable for the longevity of your engine and maintaining good oil pressure. This extra service is around £600 but may be up to £800 for X-drive cars due to the extra time to remove the front differential and axles. This comes with fresh engine oil and filter and sump gasket.
Pretty much every BMW engine from 2005 onwards is having timing chain problems so this is very much worth getting sorted sooner rather than later.
The True Price of a BMW Timing Chain Replacement
Let’s not forget diesels
Famously these engines have the timing chains located on the back of the engine by the gearbox.
This makes them a very labour intensive job to replace including valve cover, gearbox, sump, back timing cover and steering rack removal.
Prices for this 2 day job are around £1395 for RWD cars and £1895 for X-drive cars. Prices may vary slightly for particular models.
Again this problem does affect nearly all diesel engines, famously the 2 and 3 liters ones, N47, N57, B37, and more. Commonly found in the 320d, 318d and even the 316d, 330d and more.
These engines are notorious for the chains snapping and they often do some serious damage when they do. In this unlucky event we can still help get your car back on the road and even have our own breakdown service.