The BMW N47D20A is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2011. It introduced a blend of efficiency and performance for BMW's mid-range lineup, using common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts. In standard form it delivered 120 kW (163 PS), with higher-output versions reaching 135 kW (184 PS) and torque figures between 350-380 Nm.
Fitted to models such as the E87 1 Series, E90 3 Series, and E60 5 Series - including the popular 118d, 320d, and 520d - the N47D20A was designed for drivers seeking a balance of fuel economy, low-end torque, and motorway cruising comfort. Emissions compliance was met through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing most pre-2010 units to meet Euro 4 standards, with certain later builds achieving Euro 5 depending on market.
One well-documented reliability concern is premature timing chain wear, which in severe cases can lead to major engine failure. This issue, highlighted in BMW's Service Information Bulletin 11 02 17, is often linked to lubrication challenges at the chain tensioner during cold starts. In 2010, BMW introduced minor revisions before replacing the N47D20A with the N47N variant, which featured reinforced timing components.
Production years 2007–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2011 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234).
The BMW N47D20A is a 1,995 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2007-2011). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and some market‑specific Euro 5) standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| 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 | 120–135 kW (163–184 PS) | |
| Torque | 350–380 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common‑rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2010); Euro 5 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain (rear‑mounted; wear‑prone) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife‑04 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The single VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000-15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo degradation. BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting the rear-mounted chain system. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce oil starvation at the upper chain guide. The Bosch CP3 fuel pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent high-pressure pump seizure. Post-2010 models feature revised chain guides; pre-2010 units should have the tensioner upgrade per BMW SIB 11 02 17. EGR/DPF systems require periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance and prevent limp-mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 02 17). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2010 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234). Some 2010-2011 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 135 kW output requires EU3+ fuel quality (BMW TIS Doc. A26015).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24680, A25142, A25631, SIB 11 02 17
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1234)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW N47D20A was used across BMW's E8x/E9x platforms with longitudinal mounting and licensed to Toyota for transverse applications in European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the E60 and shortened intake paths in the E87-and from 2010 the facelifted E90 LCI models adopted the N47TU variant with dual-mass flywheel revisions, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Toyota's 2.0 D-4D units to leverage BMW's common-rail injection system. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the oil filter housing (BMW TIS A24890). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for N47 series). Pre-2009 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2009 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from N47N: Original N47D20A has Bosch EDC17CP09 ECU with round diagnostic port under hood, while N47N uses EDC17C49 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 03/2009 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (BMW SIB 12 03 15).
The N47D20A's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal BMW data from 2012 reported a notable share of pre-2010 engines requiring chain repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2010-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N47D20A.
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