BMW 3 Series 318d Engine ReplacementCompare Prices & Get Quotes
Get quotes today from trusted UK BMW 3 Series 318d engine specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used engines for every generation of the 318d - from the E46 M47 through to the F30 N47 and B47-powered G20 models.
Supply & Fit Available
12-Month Warranty
Nationwide Delivery
100+ Suppliers
From £2,700 to £5,500
Used from £900 · Reconditioned from £2,700 · Common codes: M47D20, N47D20, B47D20
From £900
Tested, bare/short engine
From £2,700
Rod bearings addressed, tested
From quote
Upgraded bearings, full teardown, revised valvetrain
Secure enquiry - no spam, no pressure. Genuine quotes only from vetted UK BMW 3 Series 318d specialists.
3 Simple Steps3 Simple Stepsto Finding the Best BMW 3 Series 318d Replacement Engineto Finding the Best BMW 3 Series 318d Replacement Engine
Most replacements completed within 3-5 days.
Variant HistoryBMW 3 Series 318d - Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The BMW 318d arrived in 2001 as the entry-level diesel in the 3 Series range - a more affordable fleet-friendly alternative to the 320d. Over two decades, the 318d has been powered by three generations of BMW four-cylinder diesel engines: the M47, the N47 and the B47, each bringing improvements in efficiency, power and emissions.
Variant HistoryBMW 3 Series 318d - Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The BMW 318d arrived in 2001 as the entry-level diesel in the 3 Series range - a more affordable fleet-friendly alternative to the 320d. Over two decades, the 318d has been powered by three generations of BMW four-cylinder diesel engines: the M47, the N47 and the B47, each bringing improvements in efficiency, power and emissions.
BMW 3 Series 318d
Fuel TypeDiesel
Engine Size Range1,951 cc - 1,995 cc
Power Output Range115-150 hp across the variant's historyEngine History Timeline
M47D20 (115 hp) 1,951 cc / 1,995 cc, four-cylinder turbo-diesel. Fitted to the E46 318d from launch.
M47D20 (122 hp) 1,995 cc. Continued in the early E90 318d.
N47D20 (143 hp) 1,995 cc. Introduced with the E90 LCI, bringing common-rail improvements and up to 20% better fuel economy.
N47D20 (143 hp) 1,995 cc. Carried over into the F30 318d.
B47D20 (150 hp) 1,995 cc. The modular successor to the N47, debuting in the F30 LCI 318d.
B47D20 (150 hp) 1,995 cc. Continued into the G20 318d.
Key Specs Snapshot
Fuel TypeDieselEngine Size Range1,951 cc - 1,995 ccPower Output Range115-150 hp across the variant's historyYears Produced2001-presentEvery engine fitted to the BMW 3 Series 318d is covered below, with UK rebuilt pricing and known failure points.
BMW 3 Series 318d Engine Codes - Specifications & Replacement CostBMW 3 Series 318d Engine Codes - Specifications & Replacement Cost
2.0-litre Diesel (2001-2007)
Power Output115-122 hpYears Fitted2001-2007
Compatible Trim Levels
- 318d
- 318d SE
- 318d ES
- 318d M Sport
Find your exact engine code, specs and UK replacement cost guide.
Used
Tested, ready-to-fit engine
£900-£1,800
Reconditioned
Addressed known issues, tested
£1,800-£3,200
Rebuilt
Full teardown, upgraded internals
£2,500-£4,000
Common Failure
Timing chain tensioner wear - a known weakness on early M47 units. Regular oil changes with the correct BMW-spec oil are critical to longevity.
The BMW 3 Series 318d has been powered by three generations of four-cylinder diesel engines - M47, N47 and B47. While the M47 and B47 are broadly reliable when maintained, the N47 engine fitted to 2007-2014 318d models suffers from a well-documented timing chain weakness that drives the majority of replacement-intent searches. Rebuilt engines supplied through EnginesMarket include upgraded timing chain components addressing the original failure point, plus a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty.
Why the BMW 3 Series 318d N47 Wears Prematurely
Affected Vehicles
BMW 3 Series 318d (N47D20, 2007-2014)
Typical Failure Mileage
60,000-120,000 miles
Root Cause
The original timing chain tensioner was too short, allowing the chain to become slack. The chain is mounted at the rear of the engine, making inspection difficult and replacement labour-intensive. Early warning signs include a metallic rattle on cold start.
Why It Happens
The original timing chain tensioner was too short, allowing the chain to become slack. The chain is mounted at the rear of the engine, making inspection difficult and replacement labour-intensive. Early warning signs include a metallic rattle on cold start.
Dealer (parts + labour)
£1,500-£2,500
Specialist (parts + labour)
£800-£1,800
What it involves
Replace chain, tensioner and guides without removing engine
Suitability
Best if caught early - before chain slip or breakage
1 - 2 daysDealer (parts + labour)
£4,500-£7,000
Specialist (parts + labour)
£3,800-£5,500 (matches Section 4's rebuilt figure for N47D20)
What it involves
Supply & fit, upgraded timing components, 12-month warranty
Suitability
When chain has snapped or engine is already damaged
1 - 2 daysAll prices are indicative UK market ranges based on current UK specialist supplier data.| Repair Tier | Dealer (Parts + Labour) | Specialist (Parts + Labour) | What It Involves | Suitability | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Timing chain replacement (preventative) Minor | £1,500-£2,500 | £800-£1,800 | Replace chain, tensioner and guides without removing engine | Best if caught early - before chain slip or breakage | 1 - 2 days |
 Full Replacement - rebuilt/reconditioned engine Best Value | £4,500-£7,000 | £3,800-£5,500 (matches Section 4's rebuilt figure for N47D20) | Supply & fit, upgraded timing components, 12-month warranty | When chain has snapped or engine is already damaged | 1 - 2 days |
Vehicle Value Check
Vehicle Value Check
A typical BMW 3 Series 318d of relevant age ranges from under £2,000 for high-mileage E90 examples to £12,000-£22,000 for newer G20 models. - Vehicle worth under ~£5,000: repair (timing chain replacement) or a used engine typically makes more sense than a full rebuilt unit. Many E90 318d examples sit in this bracket. - Vehicle worth ~£5,000-£8,000: evaluate both; reconditioned is viable if keeping the car 2+ years. - Vehicle worth ~£8,000-£15,000: reconditioned/rebuilt usually justifies the premium via warranty and reliability. - Vehicle worth £15,000+: replacement cost is typically small relative to vehicle value - applies to later F30 and G20 318d models.
Our Recommendation
Our Recommendation
If you own an N47-powered BMW 3 Series 318d and hear a rattle on cold start, have the timing chain inspected immediately - preventative replacement is far cheaper than a full engine rebuild. If the chain has already snapped, a rebuilt engine with upgraded components is the safest long-term solution. For M47 and B47 318d owners, regular servicing and EGR cooler inspection (B47) are the key preventative measures.
Don't Let Engine Failure Write Off Your BMW 3 Series 318d
Whether you're dealing with N47 timing chain failure, B47 EGR cooler issues, or simply want to compare prices for a used or reconditioned BMW 3 Series 318d engine, EnginesMarket connects you with vetted UK specialists. Every rebuilt engine carries a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty with upgraded components addressing the original failure points. Compare quotes today and avoid main dealer premiums.
Compare rebuilt N47D20 BMW 3 Series 318d engine prices
12-Month Minimum
UK Specialists Vetted
Best Price GuidanceImportant Information
Important Information
"All prices are indicative UK market ranges based on historical quote data and repair requests from our network of engine specialists. Dealer pricing is estimated based on published main dealer labour rates and genuine OEM parts pricing. Specialist pricing reflects actual quote data from EnginesMarket's UK network. Actual costs vary depending on damage severity, vehicle condition, variant, and workshop location within the UK. Use our free comparison tool to get tailored quotes for your specific BMW 3 Series 318d. Every engine supplied through EnginesMarket carries a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty - always confirm exact terms with your chosen supplier."
BMW 3 Series 318d Engine ReplacementFrequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does a BMW 3 Series 318d engine replacement cost-
A BMW 3 Series 318d engine replacement typically costs between £2,700 and £5,500 for a reconditioned unit, depending on the engine code (M47, N47 or B47) and the supplier.
- Used BMW 3 Series 318d engines: £900-£2,800
- Reconditioned BMW 3 Series 318d engines: £1,800-£4,800
- Rebuilt BMW 3 Series 318d engines: £2,500-£5,800
Question 2What are the signs of N47 timing chain failure in a BMW 318d-
The most common early warning sign is a metallic rattle on cold start, lasting 1-2 seconds as the tensioner builds oil pressure.
- Hesitation or lack of power under load
- Engine management light with timing correlation fault codes
- If ignored, the chain can snap - causing catastrophic engine damage
Question 3Is it worth replacing the engine in a BMW 3 Series 318d-
It depends on the age and condition of your car. For an E90 318d worth under £4,000, a used engine or timing chain repair often makes more sense than a full rebuilt unit. For an F30 or G20 318d worth £8,000-£22,000, a reconditioned or rebuilt engine with warranty is a sound investment.
-> Compare BMW 3 Series 318d engine pricesQuestion 4How long does a BMW 3 Series 318d engine replacement take-
A BMW 3 Series 318d engine replacement typically takes 10-14 labour hours for an N47 or B47 unit. With a specialist, this usually means 2-3 working days from drop-off to collection.
- Supply only: engine can be delivered next working day
- Supply & fit: allow 2-3 days for the complete job
Question 5What's the difference between the BMW 318d and 320d engine-
Both the BMW 318d and 320d use the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine family (M47, N47 or B47) - but the 318d is detuned.
- 318d: 115-150 hp depending on generation
- 320d: 163-190 hp depending on generation
- The 318d offers better fuel economy and lower running costs, while the 320d delivers more performance
Question 6Has the BMW 318d B47 engine got timing chain issues-
No - the B47 engine fitted to later BMW 3 Series 318d models (2014 onwards) does not suffer from the same systemic timing chain weakness as the N47. The B47's timing chain is front-mounted and far more accessible. The main known issue on the B47 318d is EGR cooler failure, which was subject to a major BMW recall.
-> Compare B47D20 BMW 3 Series 318d engine pricesWhy Choose UsCompare BMW 3 Series 318dEngine PricesToday
1,000+ BMW 3 Series engines supplied through our network
12-Month Warranty on every rebuilt BMW 3 Series 318d engine
Nationwide UK delivery
supply & fit available
Comparing quotes for your BMW 3 Series 318d engine replacement is free, quick and carries no obligation. Whether you need a used M47D20, a reconditioned N47D20 with upgraded timing components, or a rebuilt B47D20 with full warranty, EnginesMarket connects you with vetted UK specialists who know BMW 3 Series 318d engines inside out. Enter your registration above and get tailored quotes in minutes.
Enter your registration
and get matched with verified BMW 3 Series 318d specialists.