BMW N57 3.0L vs n47 2.0L engines

[balfron100]

recently bought a BMW 525d F10 2010 and I am looking for views and opinions on the n57 3.0L diesel engine vs the n47 2.0L engine.

The n47 has timing chain issues, is this fault also present in the n57 ?

[xxChrisxx]

For the sake of sanity, the time to ask questions is undoubtedly before a purchase.

[balfron100]

Great post, your very clever nobby.

[iSore]

Yes, the N57 does have chain issues albeit much less than the N47. But they still stretch over time leading to performance loss (because the cam timing is so far out) and an odd noise as valves just 'kiss' the pistons. If it's high mileage, it's worth having the cam cover off to see if the cam locks still fit. If they do, it's fine. If they don't, the chain is well worn and needs replacement ASAFP.

[balfron100]

Dose the engine have to come out to change the timing chain on the n57 3.0L as it dose with the n47 engine,
or is the timing chain at the front of the engine with the n57 3.0l?

[iSore]

N47's can be done with the engine in situ. No idea on the N57 but I guess it's doable. Most are autos though and tbh, it's not much more hassle just to pull the engine and box out.

[Vroomer]

xxChrisxx said:

For the sake of sanity, the time to ask questions is undoubtedly before a purchase.

[rayyan171]

The N57 does have reliability issues with its chain compared to its predecessor, the M57, however it is much smoother and quiter IMHO.

It is also the reason we went pre-LCI when we bought our X5.