BMW 3 Series 320d Engine ReplacementCompare Prices & Get Quotes
Get free, no-obligation quotes today from trusted UK BMW 3 Series 320d engine specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used engines for your 320d - whether it's the E46, E90, F30 or G20 generation.
Supply & Fit Available
12-Month Warranty
Nationwide Delivery
100+ Suppliers
From £2,700 to £4,800
Used from £900 · Reconditioned from £2,700 · Common codes: M47D20, N47D20A, N47D20C, B47D20A, B47D20B
From £900
Tested, bare/short engine
From £2,700
Rod bearings addressed, tested
From quote
Upgraded bearings, full teardown, revised valvetrain
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3 Simple Steps3 Simple Stepsto Finding the Best BMW 3 Series 320d Replacement Engineto Finding the Best BMW 3 Series 320d Replacement Engine
Most replacements completed within 3-5 days.
Variant HistoryBMW 3 Series 320d - Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The BMW 320d debuted in March 1998 as a milestone in BMW diesel history - the first 3 Series diesel to combine direct injection with an exhaust turbocharger. Over five generations, the 320d badge has become synonymous with diesel efficiency and performance, evolving through three distinct engine families - M47, N47 and B47 - each bringing significant improvements in power, economy and reliability.
Variant HistoryBMW 3 Series 320d - Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The BMW 320d debuted in March 1998 as a milestone in BMW diesel history - the first 3 Series diesel to combine direct injection with an exhaust turbocharger. Over five generations, the 320d badge has become synonymous with diesel efficiency and performance, evolving through three distinct engine families - M47, N47 and B47 - each bringing significant improvements in power, economy and reliability.
BMW 3 Series 320d
Fuel TypeDiesel
Engine Size Range1.95L-2.0L
Power Output Range136-190 hp across the variant's historyEngine History Timeline
M47D20 1.95L turbo-diesel four-cylinder, 136 hp (E46, distributor-type injection pump)
M47D20TÜ 2.0L common-rail diesel, 150 hp (E46 facelift, common rail injection)
N47D20 2.0L common-rail diesel, 163 hp (E90 generation, new engine family)
N47D20A 2.0L common-rail diesel, 177 hp (E90 LCI, revised variant)
N47D20C 2.0L common-rail diesel, 184 hp (F30 generation, further revision)
B47D20A 2.0L common-rail diesel, 163-190 hp (F30 LCI, modular engine family)
B47D20B 2.0L common-rail diesel, 190 hp (G20 generation, latest variant)
Key Specs Snapshot
Fuel TypeDieselEngine Size Range1.95L-2.0LPower Output Range136-190 hp across the variant's historyYears Produced1998-presentEvery engine fitted to the BMW 3 Series 320d is covered below, with UK rebuilt pricing and known failure points.
BMW 3 Series 320d Engine Codes - Specifications & Replacement CostBMW 3 Series 320d Engine Codes - Specifications & Replacement Cost
2.0L Diesel (1998-2001)
Power Output136 hpYears Fitted1998-2001
Compatible Trim Levels
- 320d
- 320d SE
- 320d Sport
Find your exact engine code, specs and UK replacement cost guide.
Used
Tested, ready-to-fit engine
£400-£900
Reconditioned
Addressed known issues, tested
£1,200-£2,200
Rebuilt
Full teardown, upgraded internals
£1,800-£3,200
Common Failure
Injector pump wear, EGR valve clogging, and turbocharger actuator issues. The M47 is broadly robust but age-related fuel system degradation is common on higher-mileage units.
The BMW 320d has been powered by three generations of four-cylinder diesel engines - the M47, N47 and B47 - each with its own set of well-documented weaknesses. The N47 timing chain crisis has created an entire secondary market for replacement engines, with many owners opting to replace rather than repair due to labour costs exceeding £2,000. Rebuilt units supplied through our network include upgraded components addressing the original failure points, plus a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty.
Why the BMW 3 Series 320d N47 Engine Wears Prematurely
Affected Vehicles
BMW 3 Series 320d (N47D20A 2007-2011, N47D20C 2011-2014)
Typical Failure Mileage
60,000-120,000
Root Cause
The N47's rear-mounted timing chain design is prone to stretching and tensioner failure. When the chain stretches, it can skip teeth or snap, causing pistons to hit valves and leading to catastrophic engine failure. Cold-start rattle is the early warning sign.
Why It Happens
The N47's rear-mounted timing chain design is prone to stretching and tensioner failure. When the chain stretches, it can skip teeth or snap, causing pistons to hit valves and leading to catastrophic engine failure. Cold-start rattle is the early warning sign.
Dealer (parts + labour)
£1,800-£3,000
Specialist (parts + labour)
£1,200-£2,200
What it involves
Replace chain, tensioner, guides and sprockets
Suitability
Cost-effective if caught early; prevents catastrophic failure
1 - 2 daysDealer (parts + labour)
£4,500-£7,500
Specialist (parts + labour)
£3,200-£5,800
What it involves
Supply & fit, upgraded components addressing the original failure point, 12-month warranty
Suitability
When chain has snapped or caused internal damage
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 Minor | £1,800-£3,000 | £1,200-£2,200 | Replace chain, tensioner, guides and sprockets | Cost-effective if caught early; prevents catastrophic failure | 1 - 2 days |
 Full Replacement - rebuilt/reconditioned engine Best Value | £4,500-£7,500 | £3,200-£5,800 | Supply & fit, upgraded components addressing the original failure point, 12-month warranty | When chain has snapped or caused internal damage | 1 - 2 days |
Vehicle Value Check
Vehicle Value Check
A typical BMW 3 Series 320d is worth £2,900-£9,700 depending on generation, mileage and condition [THIRD-PARTY]. For vehicles valued under £4,000, a used engine or timing chain replacement is usually the most cost-effective route. For cars worth £4,000-£8,000, a reconditioned unit can be viable if you plan to keep the car for 2+ years. For vehicles worth £8,000+, a rebuilt engine with warranty typically justifies the premium.
Our Recommendation
Our Recommendation
For N47-engined 320ds, preventative timing chain inspection at 80,000 miles is essential. If you hear cold-start rattle, have the chain inspected immediately - replacement costs £1,200-£2,200 at a specialist, far less than the £3,200-£5,800 for a full engine replacement. For B47-engined cars, timing chain issues are far less common and should not be a primary concern.
Don't Let Engine Failure Write Off Your BMW 3 Series 320d
Whether you're dealing with N47 timing chain rattle, B47 EGR cooler failure, or DPF clogging, EnginesMarket connects you with vetted UK specialists who know the 320d inside out. Every rebuilt engine carries a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty, and we offer both supply-only and fully fitted options with nationwide delivery. Compare prices today - it's free, and there's no obligation.
Compare rebuilt N47D20C BMW 3 Series 320d 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 320d. Every engine supplied through EnginesMarket carries a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty - always confirm exact terms with your chosen supplier."
BMW 3 Series 320d Engine ReplacementFrequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does a BMW 3 Series 320d engine replacement cost-
A replacement engine for a BMW 320d costs £900-£5,800 depending on condition and generation. Used engines start from £900, reconditioned units range from £2,200-£4,800, and fully rebuilt engines with warranty cost £3,200-£5,800. Fitting adds £500-£1,000 depending on the specialist and your location.
- Used engines are the cheapest but come with limited warranty
- Reconditioned engines are stripped and have worn parts replaced
- Rebuilt engines are fully machined and assembled to factory specification with a 12-month warranty
Question 2What are the signs of timing chain failure in a BMW 320d-
Common symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine on cold start that lasts 1-2 seconds, rough idling, and a check engine light. If the chain stretches further, you may experience poor performance, misfires, and eventually catastrophic engine failure if the chain snaps.
- Cold-start rattle is the earliest and most important warning sign
- N47 engines (2007-2014) are most affected
- B47 engines (2014-present) have far fewer timing chain issues
Question 3Is it worth replacing the engine in a BMW 3 Series 320d-
That depends on the condition of the car. A typical 320d is worth £2,900-£9,700 depending on generation and condition [THIRD-PARTY]. If your car is in excellent condition with good bodywork and interior, a rebuilt engine at £3,200-£5,800 can be a worthwhile investment. For a sub-£4,000 car, a used engine or targeted repair is usually more cost-effective.
- Check the car's overall condition before committing
- A rebuilt engine adds longevity and reliability
- Always compare quotes before making a decision
Question 4How long does a BMW 3 Series 320d engine replacement take-
A typical engine replacement takes 2-3 days for a specialist, including removal of the old unit, fitting the replacement, and testing. Some suppliers offer next-day delivery on used engines, but fitting always requires workshop time.
- Supply-only: 1-2 days for delivery
- Supply & fit: 2-3 days at the workshop
- N47 timing chain replacement alone: 1-2 days
Question 5What's the difference between the N47 and B47 engines in the 320d-
The N47 (2007-2014) has a rear-mounted timing chain that is prone to stretching and failure. The B47 (2014-present) relocated the timing chain to the front of the engine, making it more durable and easier to service. The B47 also features improved emissions technology including AdBlue SCR injection to meet Euro 6 standards.
- N47: known for timing chain issues, 163-184 hp
- B47: more reliable, 163-190 hp
- B47 also has EGR cooler failure as its primary weak point
Question 6Does a rebuilt BMW 320d engine come with a warranty-
Yes - every rebuilt engine supplied through EnginesMarket carries a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty. This covers manufacturing defects and component failure, giving you peace of mind. Always confirm exact warranty terms with your chosen supplier before purchase.
- 12-month warranty is standard across our network
- Unlimited mileage on most policies
- Supply & fit options include warranty on labour as well
Why Choose UsCompare BMW 3 Series 320dEngine PricesToday
1,000+ 320d engines supplied through our network
12-Month Warranty on every rebuilt 320d engine
Nationwide UK delivery
supply & fit available
Comparing quotes for your BMW 3 Series 320d is free, fast and carries no obligation. Whether you need a used M47D20, a reconditioned N47D20C or a fully rebuilt B47D20A with warranty, EnginesMarket connects you with vetted UK specialists who know your car. Enter your registration above and get real prices today.
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