N47 2.0 diesel and timing chain failure with auto gearbox?

[daveco]

I test drove an E60 520d with the LCI auto gearbox and noticed how easily the engine revved beyond 3k rpm from cold, even on part throttle. This had me a little bit concerned as I have been driving my E92 320d manual with kid gloves, never taking it above 2k rpm for at least the first twenty minutes of every journey!

There was also a shudder that was coming through into the cabin from the engine bay, similar to what you might hear if small loose objects were left in the centre console. The noise was only there when the engine was idling. I don't experience this in my own car.

The car I test drove had the timing chain replaced by BMW November 2013; could it be on the way out again??

Should I be considering manual E60s only given the auto gearboxes eagerness to use the rev range from cold?

[daveco]

SebringMan said:

iSore said:

Best way to listen for a shagged chain is to crouch down by a front door, facing forward - listening for the shhh -shhh-shhh-shhh noise.

I wouldn't touch an N47. A 520d E60 is an expensive alternative to a Mark 4 Mondeo. 525d Auto is the way to go.

You also forget many will dismiss the the MKIV Mondeo as it is "only a Ford"; aka the badge is perceived as being rubbish.

Only dismissing the Ford because I don't like the look of it so it is a fairly superficial reason tbh. Also finding a good auto example is a little harder. Also priced up a new Ford Mondeo (which is nicer to look at imo) and Skoda Superb on PCP, they can be fairly expensive!

I'm considering the 525/530/535d now, I see Hexagon have a 535d...for £18k