How 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.

BMW 320d SPECIALISTS

BMW 3 Series 320d Engine Replacement Compare 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

BMW 3 Series 320d Engine

from£2,700 to £4,800

Usedfrom £900
Reconditionedfrom £2,700
Common codesM47D20, N47D20A, N47D20C

BMW 3-seriesUsed Engine — M47D20

BMW 3-series 320d Reconditioned Engine — M47D20

BMW 3-seriesReconditioned Engine — M47D20

BMW 3-series 320d Rebuilt Engine — M47D20

BMW 3-seriesRebuilt Engine — M47D20

Instant QuotesNo Obligation100% FreeReconditionedRebuiltUsedSupply & Fit AvailableUK-Wide NetworkInstant QuotesNo Obligation100% FreeReconditionedRebuiltUsedSupply & Fit AvailableUK-Wide NetworkInstant QuotesNo Obligation100% FreeReconditionedRebuiltUsedSupply & Fit AvailableUK-Wide NetworkInstant QuotesNo Obligation100% FreeReconditionedRebuiltUsedSupply & Fit AvailableUK-Wide Network

How it works

3 Simple Steps to Finding the Right Replacement Engine

Clear information first, then the right engine and specialist for your exact vehicle.

Variant History

BMW 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.

1998
M47D20, 1.95L turbo-diesel four-cylinder, 136 hp (E46, distributor-type injection pump)
2001
M47D20TÜ, 2.0L common-rail diesel, 150 hp (E46 facelift, common rail injection)
2005
N47D20, 2.0L common-rail diesel, 163 hp (E90 generation, new engine family)
2007
N47D20A, 2.0L common-rail diesel, 177 hp (E90 LCI, revised variant)
2011
N47D20C, 2.0L common-rail diesel, 184 hp (F30 generation, further revision)
2014
B47D20A, 2.0L common-rail diesel, 163-190 hp (F30 LCI, modular engine family)
2018
B47D20B, 2.0L common-rail diesel, 190 hp (G20 generation, latest variant)

Every engine fitted to the BMW 3 Series 320d is covered below, with UK rebuilt pricing and known failure points.

Engine Codes & Pricing

BMW 3 Series 320d Engine Codes Specifications & Replacement Cost

Find your exact engine code, specs and UK replacement cost guide.

M47D20 — 2.0L Diesel (1998-2001)

Power Output: 136 hp
Years Fitted: 1998-2001

Can’t find your exact engine code?-> Get quotes for M47D20 BMW 3 Series 320d engine replacement

-> Get quotes for M47D20 BMW 3 Series 320d engine replacement

Common Problems

BMW 3 Series 320d Engine Problems Repair Cost vs Replacement

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.

Common failure points and repair options

Timing Chain Failure

Affected: 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.

Repair options

Repair tier	Dealer price	Specialist price
Timing chain replacement	£1,800-£3,000	£1,200-£2,200
Full Replacement - rebuilt/reconditioned engine	£4,500-£7,500	£3,200-£5,800

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.

-> Compare rebuilt N47D20C BMW 3 Series 320d engine prices

EGR Cooler Failure

Affected: BMW 3 Series 320d (B47D20A 2014-2018, B47D20B 2018-present)
Typical failure mileage: 60,000-120,000

Root cause

The EGR cooler develops leaks, allowing coolant to enter the exhaust system. This can lead to white smoke from the exhaust, loss of coolant without visible leaks, and engine overheating. If the EGR cooler fails completely, it can cause significant engine damage due to excessive heat.

Repair options

Repair tier	Dealer price	Specialist price
EGR cooler replacement	£800-£1,500	£500-£1,000
Full Replacement - rebuilt/reconditioned engine	£5,000-£8,000	£3,800-£6,500

Our recommendation

If you notice white smoke from the exhaust or unexplained coolant loss in your B47-engined 320d, have the EGR cooler inspected immediately. Replacement at a specialist costs £500-£1,000 - a fraction of the cost of a full engine replacement. Regular coolant checks and using BMW-approved coolant can help extend EGR cooler life.

-> Compare rebuilt B47D20A BMW 3 Series 320d engine prices

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 BMW 3 Series 320d Engine Replacement Prices Now ->

FAQ

BMW 3 Series 320d Engine ReplacementFrequently Asked Questions

Everything BMW 3 Series 320d owners usually ask before choosing a rebuilt, reconditioned or used replacement engine.

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

-> Get a tailored quote for your 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

-> Compare timing chain repair costs for your 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

-> Get free quotes for your 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

-> Find the right engine for your 320d generation

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

-> Compare warranty-included 320d engine prices

Why Choose Us

Compare BMW 3 Series 320d Engine Prices Today

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.

1,000+1,000+ 320d engines supplied through our network

12-Month12-Month Warranty on every rebuilt 320d engine

NationwideNationwide UK delivery

Get Free BMW 3 Series 320d Engine Quotes ->

Compare quotes from trusted UK BMW 3 Series 320d engine specialists with warranty-backed rebuilt, reconditioned and used options nationwide.