BMW timing Chain Issue

[Sledger]

Is the timing chain issue for BMW engines, only for Diesel N47 or have there been any instances of the same issue on petrol engines?

I'm looking to buy a 1 series m sport petrol..

Thanks

[Allanv]

Have a read of this.

http://www.babybmw.net/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=624...

[Sledger]

Thanks.

Still not sure if any petrol 1 series are affected? Can anyone confirm please.

[helix402]

Petrol engines such very much from timing chain problems. The N42 and N46 are worst. N43s are now having probs too. I'll post more info later.

[helix402]

1 series 4 cylinder petrol was the N46 at first. Then the N43 (think there may be the odd N45). The N46 had major problems with the timing chain, the tensioner would weaken. If you change it early the only symptom is timing chain noise on cold start. Next failure stage is slipped timing chain, catch it early enough, new tensioner and retime.
Worst case is stretched chain, broken guides etc. The engine was updated from 03/07 when the N43 was launched with high pressure direct injection. A modified tensioner was introduced at this point, these timing chains are more reliable but some as still having problems. My advice is go for a 6 cylinder. Or if you go for a 4 cylinder petrol change the tensioner as soon as you buy it and change the oil and filter every 1 year/10k miles with a BMW, Mann or Mahle filter and LL04 oil.


This is a 2005 118i N46 with approx 100k miles.

Latest tensioner:

Edited by helix402 on Saturday 5th March 23:20

[Mr Tidy]

helix402 said:

Petrol engines such very much from timing chain problems. The N42 and N46 are worst. N43s are now having probs too. I'll post more info later.

Great - can you post in English next time please!

[helix402]

N43/N42/N46=🙁 4 cylinder valvetronic engines by BMW made near Birmingham. First used in the E46 Compact. Think the N45 was the non valvetronic version.