[Jakey1973]

Evening all,

The 320d has just been into BMW for diagnosis on the 'knocking noise' heard when idle revving and in gear under load as per my previous post. On thier Injector Leak-off test they believe it's injector #1 at faulty as is causing something called "diesel knock". So I am happy that that explains the knocking I suppose, and I can carry-on not worrying about a potentially expensive Bottom End issue.

However, they have picked-up something else and this is where I need the member advice please.... The technician also noticed a "loud timing-chain noise" and in his own words 'doesnt expect it to last that much longer so it needs to be sorted sooner rather than later'....WTF!!???

So my question here is, where does everyone think I stand with this? The car is barely 8 years old and now sits on 105,000 miles, with a Full BMW Service History.

I am led to believe that sometime in 2009/2010 BMW were forced to recall all units with the N47 engine with suspect chain issues, due to mounting complaints from owners whose chains had snapped rendering the car unusable. I think even some went to court to claim compensation from BMW for their repair and replacement costs. It was being cited that the engine was poorly designed in that the chain was situated at the back of the engine which was a strong indication that BMW expected the chain to last the lifetime of the car, which of course for those unlucky owners; it didnt!

Then in 2010, a subsequent redesign was supposed to eliminate the issue completely. But as you can see, my 2011 is affected.

The dealer is kindly going to speak to his in-house Warranty rep tommorow to seek advice on what they can offer next, with a view to speak to BMW HQ.

Therefore, is there anyone on here who has/had a 320d (or any other model for that matter with this infamous N47) in similar age, mileage and condition that's had to go through this with BMW, who would be kind enough and willing to offer some advice and guidance on how they dealt with BMW on this?

The dealer has quoted in excess of £2000 to do the job, which I really dont think i should be forking out for. In fact its making me feel quite sick thinking about it

much appreciated in advance

Jakey.

[juld0zer]

I think this may depend largely on what your BMW head office's stance is.

Based on my market region's stance, if your service history is as ship shape as you say, you should have good ground to seek goodwill assistance. You will need to be prepared to contribute, should the decision go in that direction. I have seen the pendulum swing both ways. You may get the engine rebuilt with necessary parts replaced (eg, chains, sprockets, valves if bent, pistons if there are severe valve imprints, etc) but at your mileage they may consider a short engine as being more feasible. You may get parts coverage only or parts and labour. Diagnosis is usually not covered. The diagnosis and information gathering process can be lengthy (checking chain stretch, checking timing, sending the head off to a specialist to examine and service, measurements).

What they will consider is that the noise does not become that bad overnight, as it starts off quite soft and noticeable to those in the know. So at the last Vehicle Check service for example, an annual/15k km check, it should have displayed some symptoms.

As for the injector, now would be a good time to sort that out because the injectors have to be removed. If that injector happens to seize then it may be part of the claim.

Be firm and understanding. Goodluck!

[Jakey1973]

Originally Posted by juld0zer

I think this may depend largely on what your BMW head office's stance is.

Based on my market region's stance, if your service history is as ship shape as you say, you should have good ground to seek goodwill assistance. You will need to be prepared to contribute, should the decision go in that direction. I have seen the pendulum swing both ways. You may get the engine rebuilt with necessary parts replaced (eg, chains, sprockets, valves if bent, pistons if there are severe valve imprints, etc) but at your mileage they may consider a short engine as being more feasible. You may get parts coverage only or parts and labour. Diagnosis is usually not covered. The diagnosis and information gathering process can be lengthy (checking chain stretch, checking timing, sending the head off to a specialist to examine and service, measurements).

What they will consider is that the noise does not become that bad overnight, as it starts off quite soft and noticeable to those in the know. So at the last Vehicle Check service for example, an annual/15k km check, it should have displayed some symptoms.

As for the injector, now would be a good time to sort that out because the injectors have to be removed. If that injector happens to seize then it may be part of the claim.

Be firm and understanding. Goodluck!

Thankyou juld0zer much valued information for me to work with.

When I collected it from the dealer they said they'll help me out by seeking advice from BMW after I have submitted an email to them with pics of my service record, which of course I have done.

At the last oil and filter service in October, the vehicle inspection report i was handed back with the keys did not indicate any engine issues whatsoever, only rear shocks. Lots of green tick and the shocks were the only red crosses so that to me that suggests they did a thorough inspection and the noises would of been picked up then if they were present. In fact the very reason it went in this time is becuase i noticed some noises that weren't there in October. The fact they have quoted £2920 to replace and repair timing chain is based on thier very own diagnosis, so I am hoping that will be enough to persuade BMW to assist, hopefully fully rather than asking me to contribute.

Hopefully I'll hear back before the chain lets go!

Just out of interest, whats a short engine? And when you said about doing the injector how would this affect my claim for the chain?

I appreciate your help pal 👍

[juld0zer]

A short engine is basically one that has no ancillaries. Eg. No turbo, alternator, AC compressor, injectors, high pressure pump, brackets etc.

If an injector seizes in the head (not rare), it may have to be forcibly removed which can destroy it. It may then be claimable but that really depends which way the pendulum swings. Usually they won't cover it and blame it on corrosion. Glow plugs can also seize in the head. Try your luck, choose a path and be firm but just keep some money aside for any additionals.

Have you heard back yet?