Recently we have seen an increase in the number of customers who are experiencing timing chain failures in their 2012 or newer BMW X1, BMW X3, BMW 328, and BMW 528. These models have the N20-N26 4 Cylinder Turbo Charged engine and we commonly are finding this problem around 80,000 km and in some cases even earlier.
The crankshaft turns the timing chain, in turn, turns the oil pump and camshafts in synchronization to ensure the timing of the engine components is in sync with other engine components. In the N20-N26 engine, we are consistently seeing the timing chain stretching and the plastic guide rails breaking, resulting in a need for the replacement which we can only sum this up to poor design from the factory. Failure of the timing chain results in engine failure and your vehicle will not start.
Valley Eurotec Ltd.’s automotive technician’s experience with these engines enables us to diagnose this issue quickly when customers begin to experience the symptoms of failure, come in with a no start issue or during regularly scheduled maintenance, we find engine rattle noise, irregular or increased debris in the engine oil. Should our automotive mechanics diagnose a timing chain issue, we encourage our customers to have their timing chain replaced at first signs of an issue to minimize the potential of breakdown or engine failure.
If the timing chain fails, the vehicle will fail to start, and the worst case could result in the requirement of a new engine. We know having your car in the shop is an inconvenience, we at Valley Eurotec Ltd. are committed to having our customers replacing timing chains back on the road in a couple of days.
Valley Eurotec Ltd. also has plenty of experience with other European brand vehicle timing chains, just give us a call or email if your curious about yours!