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Greetings everyone,

I am seeking to purchase a pre-owned SUV and have identified many X3 models that are within my budget and seem satisfactory based on the photographs. Here are the models.

BMW X3 2.0 20d SE xDrive Euro 6 (start/stop) 5-door
Vehicle registration date: February 20, 2015


BMW X3 2.0 20d M Sport Automatic xDrive Euro 6
Vehicle registration date: July 15, 2014

I am concerned about the timing belt difficulties that may possibly impact this engine/model, based on my research. Can someone provide guidance on if it is advisable to avoid these?
I reached out to the dealer, who informed me that all BMW engines are equipped with a timing chain, which is expected to last for a lifetime.
Any guidance is much appreciated.

Salutations.

Indeed, they are susceptible to timing chain failure; the notion of a lifetime guarantee is misleading. The threshold is around 100,000, at which point a change should occur.

I would not allow that to deter me; I would just allocate a budget for chain replacement at 100,000 miles.

Thank you; I suspected that would be the outcome, regrettably. Both vehicles had exceeded 100,000 miles, which was my concern about the need for immediate maintenance.
Which X3 models are unaffected? From 2016 onwards?

All are impacted to some degree.
Previously, N47 engines were prone to failure; however, after 2011, upgrades were implemented that enhanced their durability. The typical lifespan of the later N47 models seems to be about 120,000 miles.

The B47 engine is far more durable; nonetheless, it is not entirely free from chain difficulties.

I have completed hundreds of N47, but only a limited number of B47 chains. The secret to longevity is to disregard the BMW CBS and ensure that the oil and filter be replaced at a maximum of 10,000 miles or every 12 months.

What is the projected cost for repairing the timing chain on the N47, assuming no further repairs are required concurrently? I am calculating my budget for a potential purchase.

Affirmative about the servicing.
The BMW two-year or 20,000-mile warranty was a marketing strategy to present the vehicle as having lower maintenance costs.
My vehicles are serviced at 7,000 miles or every 12 months, and now that I am retired, the service occurs on the 12-month anniversary of the MOT inspection.

Prices fluctuate significantly, ranging from around £1000 to £2500.
I can do these at a lower cost.

If you can reach Johnny, he is the one to consult.