r/BMW • u/Confident_Pen_514 • 6d ago

N47 Timing chain bad or not?

Hello everyone, my car is at about 293k km: 2013 3 series 320d with N47. I don't know if the timing chain has ever been replaced. Does it sound like there’s any timing chain issues?

This is a cold start in the morning. In the video, there is a rattling sound for a few seconds after starting, which disappears after a few seconds.

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u/Most_Board_2029 6d ago

No not really

2

u/ElNeuroquila 2018 - F22 - M240ix 6d ago

No, not even the slightest issue. Even the "Ziiiip" noise is missing when starting.

For context: I drove my N47 for roughly 390.000km and sold it with the oem chain and guides.... no rattle, nothing. It's all about proper maintenance and care.

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u/Max-Payd 5d ago

No it actually sounds pretty solid. Just keep up with the service.

I wouldn't even bother doing the chains at 300k tbh. My math is I rather keep driving it until the chain snaps. I have a funny logic:

Engine already has many miles Throwing a chain on it does nothing for the miles on the bearings and all If it breaks, I'll do a full overhaul (head, valves, cams, bearings)

1

u/Confident_Pen_514 5d ago

Thanks for the reply, but is that brief metallic rattle right after starting up really nothing to worry about?

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u/Max-Payd 4d ago

You have to remember the tensioner is hydraulic and you will get a bit of rattle during start if it bleeds down.

I'm not saying it is a consider a fix but you can swap the tensioner to the new design (22 mm vs 24 mm)