BMW 118i E88 timing chain stretch – Should I repair/sell?

[seakensc]

The timing chain has stretched on my BMW E88 118i. The car is a runner but very quickly goes into limp mode (drove around like this for two weeks) and I’ve heard one misfire but no other worrying noises – do we think that the stretched chain has caused damage to the engine, making the repairs cost more than the value of my car? I’m considering just cutting my losses and chopping it in for £1000 but stand to sell it for £3000 - £4000 is I get it repaired.

[Xcore]

Get a price on repairs and do the math

[seakensc]

Have been quoted £750 by a local mechanic and £1000 by a BMW 3rd party specialist, although they all said that there is a possibility of further damage which they’ll only know about once they have done most of the labour (which is most of the cost).

[227bhp]

There is only one person who can make that decision for you.

[stevieturbo]

Further damage in what regard ?

[227bhp]

Valve to piston interface.

[stevemcs]

If it’s still running then surely there will be no further damage?

[seakensc]

It runs but very poorly with the EML light on, so not sure if that’s due to the safety limp mode mechanism or due to engine damage

[stevemcs]

Its more likely the timing is out, if things were broken it would sound broken. But if you continue to drive it then you will have further issues

[OnTheEdge]

stevemcs said:

If it’s still running then surely there will be no further damage?

An engine can continue to run with one or more slightly bent valves, albeit badly. However if valve contact is suspected this can easily be checked by a leak down test without having to take anything apart.

[Elliot2000]

seakensc said:

The timing chain has stretched on my BMW E88 118i. The car is a runner but very quickly goes into limp mode (drove around like this for two weeks) and I’ve heard one misfire but no other worrying noises – do we think that the stretched chain has caused damage to the engine, making the repairs cost more than the value of my car? I’m considering just cutting my losses and chopping it in for £1000 but stand to sell it for £3000 - £4000 is I get it repaired.

I’d be interested in buying it off you if your not the other side of the country

[seakensc]

Elliot2000 said:

seakensc said:

I’d be interested in buying it off you if your not the other side of the country

I’m from Chelmsford in Essex. Is that quite a way from you?

[Elliot2000]

No not to far, can u send me a message and I can get some more details from you