BMW 116d

The N47D20 is notorious for its serial timing chain defect. The rear-mounted timing chain stretches and plastic guide rails break. Chain breakage causes total engine failure. Affected: build years 2007–2015.

Symptoms: Scraping or rattling noises on cold start from the rear of the engine. The damage often gives no acoustic warning and occurs suddenly.

The N47 water pump fails prematurely. When it does the engine overheats, causing secondary damage to an already vulnerable engine. Preventive replacement is recommended.

Symptoms: Coolant temperature rises suddenly, coolant loss, engine warning light, in the worst case overheating damage.

The high-pressure pump can wear internally and introduce metal swarf into the fuel system. Rail, pressure sensor, and all injectors are affected — complete system replacement is necessary.

Symptoms: Engine goes into limp mode; will not restart; fault code "rail pressure too low"; in the worst case the engine no longer runs

The EGR valve becomes coked through soot deposits. Contamination accelerates with frequent short-trip use. The valve no longer opens and closes correctly.

Symptoms: Power loss, increased fuel consumption, rough idle, EGR system fault code in memory.

The DPF does not fully regenerate with frequent short-trip use. Soot mass exceeds 45 g, fault code 480A, active regeneration is blocked.

Symptoms: Increased fuel consumption (over 9 L/100 km); rough idling; engine warning light; exhaust smell; DPF fault codes 480A/481A

The dual-mass flywheel wears disproportionately quickly at high mileage with diesel use. BMW revised the pressure plate and clutch disc after 2009/2010 due to a known shudder problem.

Symptoms: Strong vibrations at idle and when pulling away; shudder during gear changes; banging noises at low rpm; no fault code

The electromechanical power steering (EPS) can fail completely on 2007–2012 models. A recall was issued for certain production years.

Rear subframe is prone to severe corrosion from around 100,000 km, including through-rust. MOT failure possible. Repair often costs more than the car is worth.

Broken suspension springs and rusty spring perches are frequently flagged on the E87 per TÜV reports. Worn track rod ends are also a known defect. Affects both front and rear axle.

Rust forms on the tailgate particularly around the badges and rear wiper. Hemmed edges and hinges can also be affected.

Water enters through faulty door seals, blocked sunroof drains, or cracked body grommets, reaching the footwell and boot. Electrical damage possible.

Rubber bushings on the rear control arms lose their elasticity. Camber change and MOT failure possible. Replace both sides simultaneously.