E90 N53 330i, VANOS and timing chain

[OW1984]

Hi all,

I recently bought an N52 330i auto, which I rejected back to the supplying dealer because of a reoccurring loss of power. Got my purchase price back, so need to find some new wheels.

I have seen an N53 330i auto, with 80k on the clock, however the car has recently had a timing chain replacement and VANOS solenoids replaced. I am aware of the potential pitfalls with this engine, but am I right to be wary of a timing chain replacement being needed? The car is for sale with a dealer, so I have no idea of how long the timing chain issue was around before it was replaced?

[bmwmike]

OW1984 said:

Hi all,

I recently bought an N52 330i auto, which I rejected back to the supplying dealer because of a reoccurring loss of power. Got my purchase price back, so need to find some new wheels.

I have seen an N53 330i auto, with 80k on the clock, however the car has recently had a timing chain replacement and VANOS solenoids replaced. I am aware of the potential pitfalls with this engine, but am I right to be wary of a timing chain replacement being needed? The car is for sale with a dealer, so I have no idea of how long the timing chain issue was around before it was replaced?

First i've ever heard of an n53 needing a timing chain replacement but that's not to say it doesn't happen. Certainly not a "common" issue though. That said, i'd be wary of buying any engine that'd had open heart surgery unless it was done by competent garage - not necessarily BMW.

Plenty around i'd have thought, unless you are dead set on this one..

[ashenfie]

It depends if the chain was replaced because it rattled that is one thing, if it was broken and they fixed the engine thats another. If it's VANOS and timing chain replace positive advantage.