The BMW B47C20A is a 1,995 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine introduced in 2015 as part of the modular B-series engine family. It features high-pressure common-rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with piezoelectric injectors. Delivering 110–140 kW (150–190 PS) and 360–400 Nm of torque, it was engineered for improved efficiency and reduced emissions over its predecessor, the N47.
Fitted to models including the F20 1 Series, G20 3 Series, G29 Z4, and various MINI models such as the Countryman, the B47C20A was designed to balance responsive performance with strong fuel economy and low CO₂ output. Emissions compliance is achieved through a combination of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d compliance depending on model year.
One documented reliability concern involves the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) on early production units, which may exhibit premature wear. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 02 18, is linked to contamination or inadequate lubrication under sustained high-load conditions. From 2018 onward, revised pump calibration and updated fuel system maintenance intervals were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2015–2017 meet Euro 6c standards; 2018–2025 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The BMW B47C20A is a 1,995 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2015–2025). It combines modular architecture with common-rail injection and variable geometry turbocharging to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with strict emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110–140 kW (150–190 PS) | |
| Torque | 360–400 Nm @ 1,500–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c (pre-2018); Euro 6d-TEMP / 6d (2018–2025) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (VGT, BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-14 (SAE 0W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 147 kg |
The B47C20A delivers strong low-end torque ideal for daily driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using BMW Longlife-14 (0W-30) oil to maintain timing chain and turbocharger longevity. The SCR/AdBlue system demands regular replenishment and is sensitive to low-quality diesel, risking regeneration faults. High-pressure fuel pump reliability depends on clean fuel and timely filter changes per BMW SIB 13 02 18. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce particulate accumulation. Post-2018 models feature improved ECU calibration and revised fuel pump firmware, enhancing overall durability under mixed driving conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-14 (0W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 03 20). Supersedes ACEA C2/C3 and prior Longlife standards.
Emissions: Euro 6c applies to pre-2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6d compliance confirmed for 2018–2025 units in UK and EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 140 kW output requires EU5+ fuel quality and functional SCR system (BMW TIS Doc. B47-005).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B47-001, B47-002, B47-004, SIB 13 02 18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW B47C20A was used across BMW's F/G series platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting configurations and shared with MINI for transverse applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the F20 and revised EGR routing in the G20-and from 2018 the facelifted G01 X3 adopted the B47TU variant with updated DPF regeneration logic, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed MINI's Cooper D models to use the same core engine architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (BMW TIS B47-007). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for B-series diesel). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with integrated EGR housings; post-2018 units use revised cam covers with updated sensor placement. Critical differentiation from N47: B47C20A features a front-mounted timing chain with dual-row roller design and integrated balance shaft, while N47 uses a rear-mounted single-row chain. Service parts require production date verification—DPF and ECU components for pre-2018 models are incompatible with B47TU variants due to SCR system revisions (BMW SIB 14 01 19).
The B47C20A's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 2017 noted increased HPFP warranty claims in pre-2018 units, while UK DVSA data links SCR system faults to urban driving patterns with frequent short trips. Extended oil intervals and low-quality diesel exacerbate fuel system stress, making adherence to maintenance schedules and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW B47C20A.
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